This module maps to the four Medicare skilled-nursing categories. Document the one(s) that apply this visit in coverage language.
Observation and assessment
Assessing lymph nodes, measuring and interpreting lymphedema against baseline, recognizing lymphangitis, and distinguishing a reactive from a concerning node require the knowledge and judgment of a licensed nurse. Node and at-risk-limb surveillance are the core of observation and assessment for this domain.
Teaching and training
Teaching at-risk-limb precautions, compression use, skin care, and infection recognition — to patient and caregiver competence with return demonstration — is skilled teaching and training.
Management and evaluation of the plan of care
Evaluating whether lymphedema and at-risk-limb status are stable and coordinating decongestive therapy, compression changes, infection treatment, or oncology referral when they change is skilled management and evaluation of the plan of care.
Skilled procedures
Skilled procedures in this domain include compression-bandaging and lymphedema-management measures per plan; the assessment and surveillance are the skilled service.
