What is the purpose of edema measurement in rehab?

• A. To monitor changes over time
• B. To guide patient education
• C. To measure blood pressure
• D. To monitor changes, guide compression and activity progression, and evaluate treatment effectiveness.

Answer: (D)

Edema measurement in rehab provides objective data to guide treatment decisions and track progress. By quantifying swelling over time, you can see whether interventions like compression, elevation, and targeted exercises are reducing edema or if swelling persists, signaling a need to adjust the plan. This information helps determine when to modify compression levels, adapt activity progression, and evaluate how effective the treatment is overall. While it can support patient education by showing change, the main purpose is to monitor changes, guide compression and activity progression, and assess effectiveness of therapy. Blood pressure is a separate vital sign and not the purpose of edema measurement.