Manual Lymphatic Drainage Practical Competency

A hands-on check-off for safe introductory MLD technique. This block is intentionally assessed as a practical skill rather than on a numbered Theory Exam.

Competency standard

The student should demonstrate safe screening, light superficial skin-stretch, appropriate direction, proximal preparation, consistent rhythm, professional communication and the ability to stop when a presentation is outside introductory MLD scope. This check-off does not certify the student to treat diagnosed lymphedema or perform post-surgical rerouting.

Safety & preparation

Screens before treatment
Identifies acute infection, unexplained/new edema, suspected thrombosis, significant cardiac/renal decompensation signs and other reasons to defer or refer.

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Explains scope
Distinguishes healthy-classmate practice from treatment of diagnosed lymphedema or complex post-surgical cases.

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Positions and communicates
Maintains comfort, consent, draping and clear explanation throughout.

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Technique

Pressure
Uses light skin-stretch without digging into muscle or converting the technique into Swedish/deep-tissue pressure.

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Rhythm
Maintains slow, relaxed, repeatable movements with relaxed hands and shoulders.

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Direction
Can state the intended drainage territory and directs movements appropriately.

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Proximal preparation
Prepares central/proximal pathways before progressing farther into a limb or region.

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Sequence & reasoning

Central preparation
Uses diaphragmatic breathing and appropriate gentle central preparation.

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Regional sequence
Demonstrates an organized sequence for the assigned region/body pattern without relying blindly on choreography.

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Anatomy explanation
Identifies major node regions, superficial drainage concept, watersheds and the difference between thoracic and right lymphatic duct territories at the level taught.

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Reassessment
Monitors client comfort and tissue response and can name findings that require stopping or changing the session.

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Instructor outcome

□ Competent for introductory classroom MLD practice
□ Needs additional supervised practice before competency
□ Safety/scope remediation required

Instructor notes: ________________________________________________

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