4 TENS

Question 1

TENS

Answer 1

Transcutaneous Electrical Nervous Stimulation.
Non-invasive, non-addictive method of pain management.

Question 2

INDICATIONS/WHEN TO USE TENS

Answer 2

Acute pain.
Chronic pain.
Post-operative pain.
Dental (TMJ).
Rheumatoid/Osteoarthritis.

Question 3

CONTRAINDICATIONS TO TENS

Answer 3

Pacemaker.
Bladder stimulators.
Broken skin.
Severe cardiac diseases.
Aversion (fear).

Question 4

PRECAUTIONS FOR TENS

Answer 4

Pregnancy.
Blood pressure problems.
Sensitivity to tape/gel.
Open wounds.
Impaired sensation.

Question 5

ADVERSE EFFECTS OF TENS

Answer 5

Electrical burns.
Skin reactions to the electrodes.
Pain.

Question 6

SENSATION TESTING/SKIN CHECKING

Answer 6

Soft touch in the area, 10 times.
Check skin for any burns, or redness.

Question 7

TENS PLACEMENT

Answer 7

Unilateral.
Bilateral.
Bracketed/framing.
Crossed.
Not over scar tissue.

Question 8

PARAMETERS OF TENS

Answer 8

Mode: N=Normal; B=Burst; M=Modulated.
Frequency: In Hertz (Hz) or Pulses per second (pps).
Pulse Width: Microseconds (µsec).
Time: usually in Minutes.
Intensity Adjustment: typically, no units attached.

Question 9

HOW TO TURN OFF THE TENS MACHINE

Answer 9

Pulling the cords form the machine itself, and not pulling the pads from the skin because the risk is being electrocuted.