An Introduction to Lymphoedema

Throughout this lymphoedema course for palliative care professionals, we aim to deepen understanding of lymphoedema physiology, improve oedema identification and basic management skills, provide support in garment use, offer insights into referral to specialized services and enhance emergency management capabilities. This course equips participants with essential knowledge and skills for comprehensive patient care. Join us as we explore this crucial aspect of palliative care support.

Course delivery

This session will be delivered by Kate Jasper and Lucy Houghton.

Kate is a Lymphoedema Clinical Support Assistant and Lucy is Lymphoedema Practitioner here at Dorothy House Hospice.

Who should attend?

For all clinical facing staff including clinicians, clinical support assistants and hospice staff in the community, inpatient and outpatient settings. We will aid in developing your knowledge and understanding on the physiology of lymphoedema and potential causes in a palliative care setting.

Course details

The aims of this session are:

To develop knowledge and understanding on the physiology of lymphoedema and potential causes in a palliative care setting.
To be able to identify when someone has oedema and provide basic management i.e. skin care, positioning, movement advice.
To be able to support a patient with donning and doffing their own garment.
To know when to refer onto the Dorothy House Lymphoedema Service.
To gain insight into managing emergency scenarios i.e. cellulitis (infection) and lymphorrhoea (leaking).

Course content

The course covers and includes:

Introduction to the DH Lymphoedema Team
The Lymphatic System
Types of Lymphoedema
Clinical Presentation
Impact of Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema Management
Case Study
Lymphoedema Resources
Practical Session