Role of nursing management to assess disability prevention and elimination of lymphatic filariasis.

Hygiene and skin care are effective and important interventions in the management of lymph edema secondary to lymphatic filariasis. Lymphatic filariasis has been identified as one of the six diseases that can be potentially eliminated. We analyzed the impact on the quality of life that education and introduction of a designated nurse had on lymphoedema patients in a community that was endemic for lymphatic filariasis. Global programme to eliminate lymphatic filariasis has been launched, applying principal strategies of mass drug administration to interrupt transmission and morbidity management to prevent disability. filariasis. Patients' life quality was assessed using a Dermatology Life Quality Index Questionnaire (DLQI). At the same time they received education on appropriate hygiene, skin care techniques and simple exercises that encourage lymph drainage. A designated nurse was provided with educational materials and treatments. The DLQI life quality measure was repeated one year later. The DLQI improved for all patients and reported acute attacks were reduced. A paired t-test showed the improvement in DLQI to be highly significant (P = < 0.0001). It is concluded that A nurse-led service combined with patient education in communities endemic for lymphatic filariasis is an effective intervention in improving the quality of life of patients with lymphoedema.