Surgical treatment for breast cancer can lead to decreased upper extremity range of motion and strength, and increased risk of developing lymphedema. These factors can hinder an individual's ability to perform necessary activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing, and grooming. Such side effects post-operatively may also impair a patient's ability to receive life-extending radiation treatment due to difficulty achieving appropriate shoulder positioning, as well as ability to maintain positioning throughout the duration of treatment. The purpose of this screening program was to detect upper extremity performance deficits and signs of lymphedema in patients receiving breast-cancer related treatment in order to obtain a referral to outpatient occupational therapy. This screening program aimed to serve to a population in need, as a large percentage of breast cancer patients did not receive an OT consultation post-operatively. Patients that participated in the program were screened pre- and post-operatively. Screenings included measurements of ROM, grip strength, arm circumference, and the administration of the Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) to identify deficits in ADLs/IADLs. The Kwan's Arm Problem Scale (KAPS) was also utilized post-operatively to assess upper extremity occupational performance factors. Results showed that one out of the three participants presented with upper extremity deficits that greatly impaired occupational performance. Thus, they were referred to outpatient occupational therapy services to receive a more comprehensive evaluation. Upon completion of the doctoral capstone experience, the upper extremity screening program was presented to the therapy manager. This program is being considered for future implementation within the outpatient therapy department.

Creator

• Thomas, Ellen

Contributors

• Polo, Katie

Publisher

• University of Indianapolis

Language

• en

Identifier

• Thomas.Ellen.pdf

Keyword

• Health Sciences

• Occupational Therapy

Date created

• 2018-05

Rights statement

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/