Construction and validation of an algorithm to prevent and treat upper extremity lymphedema

Abstract

Introduction: Some health professionals have difficulty treating and preventing upper extremity lymphedema (UEL), demonstrating the need for evidence-based educational technology, such as algorithms. These algorithms should be simple, clear and direct, providing a comprehensive portrait of the care process. Objectives: Construct and validate an algorithm to prevent and treat upper extremity lymphedema Method: In order to construct the algorithm, an integrative literature review was conducted in the Health Sciences, SciELO, LILACS and MEDLINE databases. The algorithm was evaluated by 27 physiotherapists and validated using the Delphi method. Statistical analysis was carried out using the content validity index (CVI). Results: In the first assessment, the judges classified the algorithm as “Inadequate” or “Adequate”; following corrections made according to their suggestions, the algorithm was reassessed as “Adequate” or “Completely adequate”. The content validity index was 0.95 at the former and 1.0 at the latter. Conclusion: Following an integrative literature review, an algorithm to treat and prevent upper extremity lymphedema was constructed and validated by experienced professionals, exhibiting interrater agreement in the second assessment.