Lymphatic findings matter in two directions: new, hard, or fixed nodes can be the first sign of malignancy, and an at-risk limb after mastectomy or node dissection can progress to disabling lymphedema or a rapidly spreading lymphangitis. The skilled value of this domain is surveillance of nodes and at-risk limbs, and the management of compression and limb precautions. Documentation that records “no swelling” without measurement or node assessment does not prove a nurse was required; recognizing concerning nodes or protecting an at-risk limb does.
The purpose of this module is to give the clinician the framework for lymph-node assessment, lymphedema measurement and management, lymphangitis recognition, and at-risk-limb care — and the chartable language that demonstrates observation and assessment and teaching and training, with cellulitis routed to Integumentary and the edema distinction to Peripheral Vascular.
