Warm and Cold Application Flashcards
Purpose of warm & cold therapy
Promote healing.
Promote comfort.
Reduce tissue swelling.
Before you apply heat or cold, make sure that:
O Your state allows you to perform the procedure.
O The procedure is in your job description.
O You have the necessary training.
O You know how to use the equipment.
O You review the procedure with a nurse.
O A nurse is available to answer questions and to supervise you.
Heat Applications
is the application of a hot agent, warmer than skin either in a moist or dry from on the surface of the body.
benefits of heat
- Relieves pain.
- Relaxes muscles.
- Promotes healing.
- Reduces tissue swelling.
- Decreases joint stiffness.
- To soften the exudates.
When heat is applied to the skin, blood vessels in the area _________
Dilate
Means to expand or open wider. Blood flow increases.
Dilate
When heat is applied too long, blood vessels_________
constrict
Heat produces maximum vasodilatation in _________ minutes
20-30 mins
Continuation of heat beyond 30-45 minutes causes what?
tissue congestion
Moist Heat Applications
Hot compress.
Hot soak.
Sitz bath.
Hot pack.
Is a soft pad applied over a body area. It is usually made of cloth.
Compress
A body part is put into water. This is usually used for smaller parts—a hand, lower arm, foot, or lower leg.
Hot soak
The perineal and rectal areas are immersed in warm or hot water.
are common for hemorrhoids, after rectal or female pelvic surgeries, and after childbirth.
Sitz bath
Sitz bath are used to
- Clean perineal and anal wounds
- Promote healing
- Relieve pain and soreness
- Increase circulation
- Stimulate voiding
involves wrapping a body part with a wet or dry application.
Hot pack
