The education needs of health professionals conservatively managing genital oedema: UK survey findings

Abstract

Background: Adults and children report genital oedema but prevalence is unknown. Pre-registration nurse training rarely includes genital oedema and postgraduate training opportunities are rare. Aim: To identify the education needs of health professionals regarding management of genital oedema. Method: An electronic survey was cascaded to health professionals through relevant professional groups and social media. Findings: Of 149 UK respondents, most manage patients with genital oedema but only 2% felt current training was sufficient. Of 138 responding regarding supplemental training, only a half had completed genital oedema specific education, usually of 1-4 hours' duration. Confidence in knowledge was up to 22.5% higher in those with genital oedema education, even accounting for years of experience. The most common top three individual needs were compression, contemporary surgical and medical management and patient assessment. Educational resources are needed and both offline and online formats were suggested; collaborative events with urology/pelvic health are essential. Conclusion: Health professionals working in lymphoedema care have (unmet) specific education needs regarding genital oedema management. The desire for both offline and online resources reflects the necessity of accessing learning at a distance and on an 'as needed' basis.