Abstract
Objective: The present study aimed to develop a Lymphedema Self-Management Skill scale (LESMS scale) for patients diagnosed with lymphedema, and to investigate the scale's reliability and validity.
Methods: The question items on the LESMS scale were extracted from original articles and books on nursing of lymphedema patients published between 2001 and 2011. A questionnaire survey was conducted using a 36-item trial version of the LESMS scale for which content validity had been confirmed. The subjects were 284 lymphedema patients who provided informed consent to participate in the study.
Results: Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis revealed a 16-item, 4-factor structured model with "lymphedema self-management skill" as the higher order factor. The scale also had a valid goodness-of-fit level. Cronbach's α of the LESMS scale was .858, indicating internal consistency. The LESMS scale was thus confirmed to be valid.
Conclusion: The LESMS scale has confirmed reliability and validity and can be used to assess the self-management skills of lymphedema outpatients.
