LEVEL OF KNOWLEDGE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY STUDENTS AND PHYSIOTHERAPISTS ON THE REHABILITATION OF COMPLICATIONS IN POST-MASTECTOMY PATIENTS

Background
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. The aim of the study was a comparative analysis of the level of knowledge of third- to fifth-year physiotherapy students and practicing physiotherapists in the field of rehabilitation of post-mastectomy complications.

Material and methods
A total of 112 participants (41 physiotherapy students and 71 physiotherapists) took part in the study. A proprietary online survey questionnaire consisting of 31 questions was used.

Results
Physiotherapists were more likely than students to derive knowledge about rehabilitation of complications in patients after breast cancer treatment from courses, while students used materials available in classes at the university. The average number of points obtained in the knowledge test was 14.89 out of a possible 25. The most correct answers (89.5%) were given to the question concerning the negative effects of the presence of large lymphedema on the body of the person being treated. The lowest number of correct answers (23.7%) was recorded in the question concerning the type of exercise that is contraindicated during early cancer treatment.

Conclusions
A moderate level of knowledge was predominant, indicating an overall average state of knowledge among the groups surveyed. There is a need for more diverse educational methods to improve knowledge in areas identified as weaknesses.