Lymphedema Exam and Diagnosis UPDATED ACTUAL Exam Questions and CORRECT Answers

Lymphedema Exam and Diagnosis
UPDATED ACTUAL Exam Questions and
CORRECT Answers
It is not uncommon for what portion of examination to give more information that physical
exam? - CORRECT ANSWER - patient history!!



How does lymphedema develop? (speed, location, sx) - CORRECT ANSWER - slowly
distal to proximal
not typically painful


If there is a quick decline in patient status, what is the most appropriate action? - CORRECT
ANSWER - refer to ED, especially if patient is unwell and limb is warm



What can be recognized through palpation in exam? - CORRECT ANSWER - temperature
differences
pitting edema
fibrosis of tissue
moist/dry skin


If limb is moist but not leaking, it could be ____ - CORRECT ANSWER - healthy



If a limb is found to be dry, it could be ___ - CORRECT ANSWER - very unhealthy


What are common differential diagnoses when trying to identify lymphedema? - CORRECT
ANSWER - acute DVT
cardiac edema/CHF
renal failure
malignancy

, infection
RSD


What are the characteristics for a DVT? - CORRECT ANSWER - sudden onset
unilateral
pain
cyanosis/rubor, heat
positive Homan's


What are characteristics of CHF/cardiac edema? - CORRECT ANSWER - greatest in
feet/ankles
always bilateral
pitting
near complete resolution with elevation
no pain
history consistent (SOB)


What is the first place you should look to assess swelling in foot and ankle? - CORRECT
ANSWER - medial malleolus



What are the characteristics of renal failure? - CORRECT ANSWER - kidneys unable to
remove waist
fatigue
flank pain btwn ribs/hips
changes in urination


What are characteristics of malignancy? - CORRECT ANSWER - pain, paresthesia
paralysis
proximal onset