At what point can I lift things? Women's satisfaction with lymphoedema prevention information after breast cancer surgery

Background: There is a paucity of evidence regarding satisfaction with lymphoedema prevention information in the literature. This assessment is supported by both anecdotal discussions with health professionals in North Queensland and by searching the literature. Question: How satisfied are women with breast cancer in North Queensland with the information provided about lymphoedema prevention strategies? This qualitative descriptive study explored the views of regional women to determine aspects of satisfaction with reference to the type of information provided, appropriateness of clinical information and timeliness of information at the specific stage of their illness trajectory. Methods: Eleven participants were recruited in North Queensland and all consented to an audio-taped, open ended, and semi-structured interview. The recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step approach to inductive thematic analysis. Findings: This study identified gaps in the information provided regarding lymphoedema prevention and management. The participants in this study were dissatisfied with the information provided and a gap was identified in evidence based information on exercises and lymphoedema prevention strategies. Discussion: Current provision and content of lymphoedema prevention information warrants further investigation. Further research into the different communication styles for women, brochure formats, timing of information, delivery options, and evidence based lifestyle and behavioural activities and best practice was identified. This study’s findings clearly showed more tailored information would reduce confusion. The teaching strategies used for lymphoedema prevention and post-surgery instructions warrant further evidence based guidelines. Evidence based guidelines would be of tangible value for both affected women and health professionals. Conclusion: This study identified that some of the lymphoedema literature supplied is dated, and improvements in tailored information would assist women with breast cancer and improve satisfaction