Work Type
Poster
Abstract
Occupational therapy can be beneficial in oncology care, but a lot of professionals do not understand how occupational therapy fits in or what it even does. Lymphedema therapy is also overlooked and undereducated, while also being a rising need in therapists that are specialized in lymphedema.
This capstone synthesizes in-depth knowledge within the area of oncology and lymphedema through clinical skill development, education, and advocacy.
Focus Area:
- Clinical Skills
- Advocacy
- Education
Purpose:
Goal to create sustainable resources and interventions to empower patients and caregivers, advocate for the role of occupational therapy, and address overlooked needs such as mental health, caregiver education and lymphedema management/education. Enhancing the lives of patients and family while advocating for the influence of occupational therapy in oncology care.
Project Setting:
- Klose Training, 135-hour course, home study and hands-on in Jacksonville, FL. Learning to treat lymphedema with complete decongestive therapy (CDT), manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), compression bandaging, skin care, and appropriate exercises
- Katzmann Breast Center in Clive, IA. Observing and hands-on working with lymphedema and breast cancer care
Publication Date
5-7-2026
Citation Information
Schwake, Brianna, "An Occupational Therapy Toolkit: Integrating Lymphedema and Patient Education in Oncology" (2026). Student Works Occupational Therapy Capstones. 21.
https://digitalcommons.dmu.edu/stu_ot/21
