Course Description:

Preterm and medically complex infants are surviving at younger ages due to medical advances utilized in the neonatal and cardiac/pediatric intensive care units. The co-morbidities of prematurity, post-surgical recovery, genetic conditions, and multi-system influences of these medical pathologies can place stress on the lymphatic system. Thus, fluid homeostasis is compromised, and neonatal/infant edema is the result. By integrating edema assessment and treatment techniques into the infant’s care plan, the neonatal therapist can improve positioning, self-regulation, movement, and functional skills. During this course, participants receive the most up-to-date and evidence-based literature regarding the role of the lymphatic system, edema assessment within the NICU, and specific co-morbidities that warrant edema management to maximize outcomes. Clinical education is provided regarding indications, contraindications, considerations during positioning/handling, oral motor facilitation, gross motor facilitation, pharmacological management, and additional interventions to support lymphatic transport of fluid. This course will provide hands-on lab time for superficial stimulation of the lymphatic system to facilitate fluid mobilization. Clinical case studies with patient videos are shared to enhance the participants’ learning. Upon completion of this course, participants will have a deeper understanding of the lymphatic system, ability to integrate components of lymphatic care into clinical practice, use of edema assessment to create lymphatic care plans, demonstrate the hands-on skills for superficial lymphatic mobilization, and integrate oral/gross motor facilitation that will enhance lymphatic flow to reduce limitations in movement due to persistent edema. This 2-day course is approved by Manual Edema Mobilization Associates and is taught by an endorsed MEM instructor.