Lymphedema Knowledge and Self-Care Practices among Post-Operative Breast Cancer Surgery Patients
Shaimaa Ahmed Mohammed*, Zinab Hussien Ali **, Mohammed Ibrahim Abou souad***
*Assistant lecturer at Medical and Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing Fayoum University, **Professor of Medical and Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing Helwan University, *** Assistant Professor of Surgical Oncology ,Faculty of Medicine Fayoum University

ABSTRACT
Background: Lymphedema due to breast cancer surgery causes functional disability in the arm on the operated side, weakness, failure to fulfill daily activities and deterioration in body image. Functional disability caused by lymphedema restricts arm movements, reduces the healing capacity of the affected tissue and leads to pain Aim: the study aimed to assess lymphedema knowledge and self-care practices among post-operative breast cancer surgery patients. Design: A descriptive study design was utilized for data collection. Setting: This study was carried out at surgical &outpatient unit at Fayoum University Hospitals. Sample: A purposive sample composed of 80 adult post-operative breast cancer patients . Tools: data collection tool included: Structured interview questionnaire, knowledge assessment sheet and self-care practices checklist. Results: majority of studied patients had unsatisfactory knowledge level of total knowledge regarding breast cancer related lymphedema and poor self-care practices. Conclusion: the highest percentage of patients had poor knowledge and self-care regarding breast cancer related lymphedema. Recommendation: Developing educational program for all admitted patients who will perform breast cancer surgery.
Key words: Lymphedema, knowledge, Self-care, breast cancer