Evaluation of Lymphedema Prevention Protocol on Quality of Life among Breast Cancer Patients with Mastectomy

Document Type : Research Articles

Author

Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Karpaga Vinayaga College of Nursing, Kancheepuram-Dt.The Tamilnadu Dr.M.G.R. Medical University,Guindy, Chennai, India.

Abstract

Objective: Lymphedema is a widespread complication after surgery or radiation therapy due to the damage and
obstruction of the lymphatic vessels. A study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of lymphedema prevention
protocol on quality of life among breast cancer patients with mastectomy at a selected hospital in Tamil Nadu.
Objectives of the study were to identify the effect of lymphedema prevention protocol on lymphedema occurrence and
quality of life. Methods: A quantitative research approach of quasi experimental non-equivalent with control group
before –after design (Non randomized) was used. The investigator had included 120 participants by using purposive
sampling technique which included 60 each in study and comparison group. Pre test was done before the intervention of
lymphedema prevention protocol to both comparison and study group participants. Lymphedema prevention protocol
was implemented for study group whereas comparison group received routine care. Post tests 1, 2, 3, and 4 were done by
using the structured questionnaire at 10th day, 30th, 60th and 90th post operative day respectively. Subjects’ responses were
coded and statistically analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The comparison of quality of life
between study and comparison group over a period of time were statistically significant at p< 0.001 whereas lymphedema
occurrence was significant at p< 0.01. Conclusion: The early execution of preventive measures of lymphedema prevents
the lymphedema occurrence and promotes the quality of life among patients undergone mastectomy.

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