Prevention and Management of Arm Lymphedema in Breast Cancer Survivors: Nurse’s Roles

Abstract

Abstract

        Arm lymphedema is a complication found up to 20% of breast cancer survivors. It can found from during treatment to after treatment for months or years. Arm lymphedema results from blockage of the lymphatic flow from arm to the heart that caused  mainly by breast cancer treatments including breast surgery, axillary lymph node dissection, radiation therapy, and some types of chemotherapy. Once it is established it is hard to cure causing discomfort   and affecting livelihood of the breast cancer survivors. This condition can be prevented and controlled the violence. Nurse is one within the health care team who not only involves in the breast cancer treatment, but also has an important role in preventive care to minimize and control symptom forms intractable. This article reviews the knowledge of breast cancer associated arm lymphedema related to incidence, pathophysiology, severity, effects, causes, risk factors, management, and recommendations nursing role in preventing and controlling arm lymphedema in the breast cancer.