Introduction for Nursing Diagnosis:
Expanding the awareness of nursing diagnosis and its uses is the main focus of this post about NANDA nursing diagnosis: Ineffective Self-Management of Lymphatic Edema. Edema, also known as swelling, is a common symptom of several medical conditions associated with the body’s ability to regulate fluid balance. It results from increased pressure in certain veins and capillaries and can cause inflammation, pain, and/or impaired functioning of body parts and systems. Nurses must be aware of the different causes, treatments, and interventions for edema in order to provide comprehensive care for their patients.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
The NANDA nursing diagnosis Ineffective Self-Management of Lymphatic Edema defines an individual’s inability to recognize and manage edema related to their individual lifestyle patterns and health-related choices.
Defining Characteristics
Subjectives
- Complaints of swelling in affected area
- Reports of muscle stiffness
- Complaint of difficulty moving affected limb
- Expressions of worry and helplessness
Objectives
- Increased size and weight in affected area
- Skin discoloration or changes
- Pitting edema
- Decreased mobility in affected limb
Related Factors
- Medications: Some medications such as antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and ACE inhibitors can increase the risk of developing edema.
- Diet: Potassium-deficient diets can lead to fluid retention, as can excessive salt intake.
- Inactivity: Being inactive for long periods of time can result in fluid accumulation.
- Age: As people age, their body’s ability to regulate fluids is reduced due to decreased kidney function.
- Compression: Compression therapy can be used to reduce edema. However, this type of treatment should only be used after discussing it with your healthcare provider.
Risk Population
Patients at risk of developing edema include those who are pregnant, have poor nutrition, have pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, have undergone surgery, have experienced long-term immobilization, have had chronic corticosteroid use, or are underpressure stockings. In addition, people with congestive heart failure, vascular diseases, or kidney diseases are also at higher risk.
Associated Problems
The most common associated problems with lymphedema are skin infections, cellulitis, and other complications. Additionally, patients may experience depression and anxiety due to the physical limitations caused by edema.
Suggestions of Use
It is important to monitor edema closely and assess the patient’s ability to self-manage the condition. Nurses should provide education on lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of developing edema, as well as lifestyle modifications that can help to reduce existing edema. Nurses should monitor for signs and symptoms of possible associated problems and refer the patient to their healthcare provider if any concerning signs and symptoms arise.
Suggested Alternative NANDA Diagnoses
Other alternative NANDA diagnoses for edema include Deficient Knowledge about Disease Process, Altered Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements, and Body Image Disturbance.
Usage Tips
When creating a plan of care for a patient with Ineffective Self-Management of Lymphatic Edema, nurses should focus on promoting self-care and managing edema-related symptoms. They should also monitor for any new signs and symptoms that could indicate a potential associated problem.
NOC Results
The goal of nursing care should be to maximize the patient’s ability to self-manage their edema symptoms. The expected Nursing Outcomes Classifications (NOC) results are: Swelling Status, Skin Integrity, and Body Image.
NIC Interventions
To achieve these desired outcomes, nurses should use the following Nursing Interventions Classifications (NIC): Limb Circulation Care, Exercise Therapy, Teaching: Disease Process, Teaching: Self-Care, and Teaching: Body Mechanics.
Conclusion
NANDA nursing diagnosis: Ineffective Self-Management of Lymphatic Edema is a crucial part of providing comprehensive care for patients. Nurses should be aware of the common causes of edema, as well as the symptoms and interventions available for managing edema. With this knowledge, nurses can ensure that their patients receive the best possible care.
FAQ
- What is NANDA nursing diagnosis? NANDA International (formerly North American Nursing Diagnosis Association) is an international organization that develops, researches, and refines standardized nursing diagnoses to be used in clinical practice.
- What is edema? Edema is a common symptom of several medical conditions associated with the body’s ability to regulate fluid balance. It results from increased pressure in certain veins and capillaries and can cause inflammation, pain, and/or impaired functioning of body parts and systems.
- What are some suggested interventions for edema? Suggested interventions include limb circulation care, exercise therapy, teaching about the disease process and self-care, and teaching body mechanics.