A patient had a left radical mastectomy last year. The nurse assesses for painless and nonpitting swelling of the arm on that side. Which complication of a mastectomy is the nurse assessing for?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lymphedema is a localized accumulation of lymph fluid in the interstitial spaces caused by removal of the lymph nodes. Localized signs of infection include redness, heat, and pain; there can also be edema, which, when associated with infection, is pitting. Localized signs of inflammation include redness, heat, and pain; there can also be edema, which, when associated with inflammation, is pitting. The sign of lymphoma is an enlarged lymph node rather than generalized swelling.

A Patient Had a Left Radical Mastectomy Last Year