Hot/cold test Flashcards
physical effects of heat
kinetic energy of fluids
changes in physical state
acceleration of chemical reaction
physiological effects of heat
size of heated area depth of absorption increased metabolic activity more red and white blood cells increased blood flow may lead to oedema joint stiffness reduced pain relief muscle spasm reduced healing encouraged
Parafin wax bath
melting point 54 degrees
conductive heatng
15-20 mins treatment
wrap the hand up in a towel and keep it elevated
then can use the wax to increase range of movement
What are the dangers of heat treatment?
burns
scalds
electric shocks
OD of problem
Contraindications of heat treatment
lack of thermal sensation impaired circulation risk of haemorrhage skin conditions devitalised skin-radiotherapy
How can problems be prevented
risk assessment
detailed explanation of proposed treatment
informed consent
palpate, observe, asl
test thermal sensation of treatment area and surrounding tissues
Reasons for using cold
reduces oedema production reduces bleeding reduces swelling recent acute injury minimises acute inflammation reduces muscle spasm decreases pain
Contraindications of cold treatment
decreased sensation of hot and cold
arteriosclerosis
skin hypersensitivity
adverse psychological factors
Precautions of cold treatment
cardiac disease altered blood pressure defective thermal sensation skin hypersensitivity adverse psychological factors
Physiological effects of cold
vasoconstriction
may reduce swelling
lewis hunting reaction
increases blood viscosity
How to use a cyrocuff
leave on for 15-20 minutes
