CLT Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CLT facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which evidence-based approach is most important when applying treatment planning principles? → Integrating current research with clinical expertise and patient values
2. Where are the majority of immune cells activated within the lymphatic system? → Lymph nodes
3. What is the standard of care requirement for documentation standards in clinical practice? → The level of care a reasonably competent practitioner would provide
4. Which organ plays a major role in filtering blood and supporting the immune system? → Spleen
5. What role does exercise play in lymphedema treatment? → Supports lymph drainage
6. Which of the following may contribute to secondary lymphedema? → Radiation therapy
7. In the context of Certified Lymphedema Therapist, what is the primary goal of patient communication? → Optimal patient outcomes and safety
8. Which of the following is a subjective method of assessment? → Patient-reported heaviness
9. Which type of touch is used in Manual Lymphatic Drainage? → Light, rhythmic touch
10. Why is patient education essential in lymphedema therapy? → To encourage adherence and self-management
11. What does hyperkeratosis indicate in a patient with lower extremity lymphedema? → Chronic skin thickening due to prolonged lymphostasis
12. Which ethical principle is most directly applicable to treatment planning? → Beneficence — acting in the patient's best interest
13. In the context of Certified Lymphedema Therapist, what is the primary goal of medical ethics and law? → Optimal patient outcomes and safety
14. How should a practitioner handle an unexpected finding during clinical assessment methods procedures? → Document it and follow established protocols for further evaluation
15. What is the primary purpose of compression therapy in lymphedema treatment? → Control and reduce swelling
16. Which of the following is NOT a component of CDT? → Surgical removal of lymph nodes
17. ISL Stage 0 (or Stage Ia) lymphedema is best described as which of the following? → Latent or subclinical state where transport is impaired but no visible swelling is present
18. Which evidence-based approach is most important when applying pharmacology basics principles? → Integrating current research with clinical expertise and patient values
19. In the context of Certified Lymphedema Therapist, what is the primary goal of patient safety protocols? → Optimal patient outcomes and safety
20. How should a practitioner handle an unexpected finding during pharmacology basics procedures? → Document it and follow established protocols for further evaluation
21. What is 'mechanical insufficiency' of the lymphatic system? → Reduced lymphatic transport capacity due to structural damage or obstruction
22. Which type of muscle contraction helps move lymph through vessels? → Skeletal muscle
23. What is a key feature of compression garments used in maintenance phase? → Consistent, daily use to maintain volume
24. Which type of bandaging is commonly used during the intensive phase of CDT? → Short-stretch bandages
25. Which malignancy is associated with chronic lymphedema, particularly post-mastectomy lymphedema? → Angiosarcoma (Stewart-Treves syndrome)
26. What role does documentation play in patient safety protocols? → It is a critical legal and clinical requirement
27. Which ethical principle is most directly applicable to documentation standards? → Beneficence — acting in the patient's best interest
28. How should compression bandages be applied? → In overlapping layers with controlled tension
29. What is a common early sign of lymphedema? → Heaviness or tightness in a limb
30. Which phase of CDT includes MLD performed daily? → Intensive phase