Document Type
Paper
Publication Date
4-30-2026
Faculty Mentor
Cristina R. Smith
Abstract
Objective: Pediatric primary lymphedema (PLE) in adolescents is a rare, chronic condition frequently associated with delayed diagnosis and limited healthcare provider awareness. The purpose of this capstone project was to enhance Entry‑Level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Students’ knowledge of the characteristics, management strategies, and available resources for PLE in adolescents, while increasing awareness of the critical role of occupational therapists certified in lymphedema therapy.
Methods: A hybrid educational module consisting of two one‑hour sessions, one asynchronous and one in‑person, was developed and delivered to Residential Entry-Level OTD Students at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Module content included lymphatic system anatomy, primary versus secondary lymphedema, diagnostic methods, components of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), and the role of the OT who is a certified lymphedema therapist. A REDCap pre‑ and post‑knowledge test assessed changes in knowledge. A satisfaction survey evaluated perceptions of module quality, usability, and effectiveness.
Results: Twenty‑five first-year OTD students (n=25) completed the pre‑knowledge test, and twenty‑one completed the post‑knowledge test. Knowledge gains were observed across all content areas. Correct identification of CDT components increased from 72.0 to 92.0% to 95.0 to 100.0%, and recognition of a common sign of primary lymphedema in adolescents improved from 56.0% to 95.2%. Satisfaction survey responses (n = 22) indicated strong agreement regarding overall hybrid module quality and increased confidence in pediatric lymphedema knowledge.
Conclusion: The hybrid educational module effectively improved OTD students’ baseline knowledge of pediatric primary lymphedema and awareness of the specialized role of the OT who is a CLT, providing preliminary data that this is a valuable educational strategy for addressing gaps in PLE awareness.
Recommended Citation
Kohler, Ginger A., "The Pressure is on for Pediatric Primary Lymphedema (PLE): Guiding Future Occupational Therapy Clinicians to Address the Unmet Needs and Enhance Care at an Academic Health Center" (2026). Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Innovations in OT Symposium: Transforming Possibilities into Practice. 36.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/muscotd-ppotd/36