By Eileen Smith, DOR, Paramount Health & Rehabilitation
This past September, Milestone had an opportunity that was the first of its kind in Utah. The University of Milwaukee sponsored a 5-day lymphedema course in Salt Lake City, UT. In this course, we learned about the lymphatic system, different methods of wrapping and “Massage for Lymphatic Drainage” (MLD). As we all know, the lymphatic system is a complicated but delicate system that can be obstructed by a simple injury, certain diagnoses or surgery of any type. Through this course, we were able to problem-solve and learn different techniques to address these issues from start to finish, beginning with MLD, to lymphedema wraps, down to a compression stocking that will assist in increasing the patient’s quality of life. Along with our course instructor, we were able to learn from our own Milestone member, Mary Egbert, DOR, Draper Rehabilitation, the different techniques and problem-solving she has experienced from taking this same course a few years earlier. After 5 days and an intense case study presentation, we were all certified in lymphedema.
The training did not end there! We had participants from seven of our facilities (Draper, Provo, Orem, Copper Ridge, Paramount, St Joseph, and Arlington Hills) that included therapists, our Wound Nurses, and our Wound Physician who supports several of our facilities. We also had several community therapists participate, which provided a great opportunity for us to intermingle. After the course, we exchanged emails, etc., and have all kept in touch to either assist in problem solving different methods or ideas on patient care or share success stories.