[BonnieR]

Good question. I only had minimal lymph nodes removed. Sentinal with one or two that came along with it..in both sides.
My left arm has been a little problematic and developed very mild lymphedema. I saw a specialist who recommended the sleeve while flying for that one side only because I had minor symptoms. The precautions regarding avoiding hot tubs, sunburns, cuts, etc is valid for anyone who had had any nodes removed. Blood draws, BP etc should be done on the opposite arm. Since I had a bilateral, we do the labs on my right arm which seems more unaffected.
As an example, my left arm got over exposed to sun and I got to scratching it...anyhow, it got red and swollen, and I needed to take Cipro to prevent cellulitis.
So, it is good to take precautions without getting fanatical about it. Since you are advising patients, I suggest you get factual information from experts too. What does your research show?
Keep the faith.