Non-Systems: Therapeutic Modalities: Superficial Heating Physical Agents

Question 1

Hot Pack

Answer 1

• Hot packs delivery heat via conduction
• Layers should be placed between the patient and the hot pack to avoid burns
• Peak heat conduction takes place within the first 5 minutes so patients should be checked on periodically the most within that period to avoid burns.

Question 2

Hydrotherapy

Answer 2

• Partial or total immersion baths in which the water is agitated and mixed via air to be directed against or around the affected part

Question 3

Hydrotherapy: Precautions: Local Immersion

Answer 3

• Decreased temperature sensation
• Impaired cognition
• Recent skin graft
• Confusion/disorientation

Question 4

Hydrotherapy: Precautions: Full Body Immersion in hot water

Answer 4

• Pregnancy
• MS
• Impaired thermal regulation

Question 5

Hydrotherapy: Precautions: Full Body Immersion in tepid water

Answer 5

Same as local immersion plus

• Cardiovascular medications
• Urinary Incontinence
• Aquaphobia
• Respiratory issues

Question 6

Hydrotherapy/Whirlpool: Red flag: Contraindications

Answer 6

• Do not use whirlpool for wound management

Question 7

Hydrotherapy/Whirlpool: Red flag: Contraindications: Local immersion

Answer 7

• Maceration/bleeding

Question 8

Hydrotherapy/Whirlpool: Red flag: Contraindications: Full Body immersion

Answer 8

• Unstable cardiac disorder

- Bowel incontinence

Question 9

Hydrotherapy: Electrical Safety Precautions

Answer 9

• A ground fault circuit breaker should be installed at the circuit breaker of the receptacle of all whirlpools
• All whirlpool devices should be checked for current leakage

Question 10

Non-Immersion irrigation device

Answer 10

• Small handheld electric water pump that produces a water jet to create a shearing force to loosen tissue debris

Question 11

Non-Immersion irrigation device: Precautions

Answer 11

• Avoid use in granulating tissues or body cavities