CLT CLT Skin Care & Wound Management 2

Question 1

What does hyperkeratosis indicate in a patient with lower extremity lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Chronic skin thickening due to prolonged lymphostasis

Answer

Hyperkeratosis indicates chronic lymphostasis causing abnormal keratinocyte proliferation, resulting in rough, thickened skin patches that require regular gentle exfoliation.

Question 2

Which opportunistic infection poses the greatest risk to lymphedema patients and can rapidly worsen the condition?

Accepted Answer

Cellulitis (acute bacterial skin infection)

Answer

Cellulitis is the most dangerous infection in lymphedema patients because it rapidly spreads through protein-rich lymphedematous tissue, triggers acute inflammatory episodes, and permanently damages remaining lymphatics.

Question 3

What is the standard first-line treatment for cellulitis in a lymphedema patient?

Accepted Answer

Oral or IV antibiotics targeting gram-positive bacteria (e.g., penicillin/amoxicillin)

Answer

Cellulitis in lymphedema is almost always caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species, requiring prompt systemic antibiotic therapy targeting gram-positive organisms.

Question 4

Why is papillomatosis clinically significant in lymphedema management?

Accepted Answer

It indicates chronic, undertreated lymphedema requiring intensive CDT intervention

Answer

Papillomatosis signals advanced, chronic lymphostasis and indicates the patient needs intensive complete decongestive therapy to reverse fibrotic skin changes.

Question 5

Which wound dressing type is preferred for managing wounds on a lymphedematous limb?

Accepted Answer

Non-adherent, moisture-retentive dressings such as foam or hydrocolloid

Answer

Non-adherent, moisture-retentive dressings minimize trauma during dressing changes and maintain an optimal moist wound environment while accommodating lymphedematous skin fragility.

CLT - Certified Lymphedema Therapist Practice Test

CLT - Certified Lymphedema Therapist Practice Test

CLT CLT Skin Care & Wound Management 2