Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

In patients with lymphedema, what should be the primary consideration when choosing a bandaging technique?

1. Comfort of the patient

2. Use of short-stretch bandages

3. Softness of the materials

4. Type of lymphedema present

The correct answer is: Use of short-stretch bandages

When managing patients with lymphedema, the primary consideration in selecting a bandaging technique is the use of short-stretch bandages. Short-stretch bandaging is crucial because it provides the necessary compression to reduce limb swelling while allowing for some degree of mobility. This type of bandage maintains consistent pressure on the affected area during muscle contractions, assisting in promoting lymphatic drainage. Utilizing short-stretch bandages helps in creating a low resting pressure and a high working pressure. This characteristic is essential as it prevents excessive constriction of the lymphedematous limb, which can exacerbate swelling or cause discomfort. This bandaging technique is particularly effective in the management of lymphedema because it can accommodate the fluctuating nature of lymphatic fluid accumulation in a way that supports both comfort and effectiveness in treatment. Other considerations, such as patient comfort, softness of materials, and the type of lymphedema present, are also important but are secondary to the efficacy of the bandaging system. While patient comfort is important for adherence to treatment and may influence overall outcomes, it should not overshadow the necessity for clinical effectiveness in reducing lymphedema symptoms, which is primarily achieved through the application of appropriate compression techniques like