Heat and Cold Applications- Chapter 54 – Flashcards
Unlock all answers in this set
Unlock answersquestion
Some conditions benefit from the application of either heat or cold. Because complications can occur, the nurse must be knowledgeable to use these therapies _____ and _____.
answer
safely and effectively
question
Heat causes _______, which increases blood flow to the area where heat was applied.
answer
vasodilation
question
Vasodilation increases the amount of oxygen, nutrients, and white blood cells delivered to body tissues. (T/F)
answer
True
question
Vasodilation also aids in ____ of waste products from injured tissues(such as the debris from phagocytosis)
answer
removal
question
What kind of things does heat application help with?
answer
-relieves local pain, stiffness, or aching, particularly of muscles and joints -assists in wound healing -reduces inflammation -makes the chilly client more comfortable -raises the body's temperature -promotes drainage (draws infected material out of wounds)
question
Heat must be fairly intense to produce the desired effect, burns may result if heat is applied _____ or for _____.
answer
improperly, or for too long
question
The application must be hot enough to accomplish its purpose but within a safe _____ range.
answer
temperature
question
Heat applied over a large area affords more warmth; however the potential for injury is greater than that of heat applied over a _______.
answer
small area
question
Both dry heat and moist heat have _______.
answer
local effects
question
Apply dry heat with what bags?
answer
warm-water bag, waterproof water-filled heating pad(aquathermia pad), heat lamp, electric heat cradle, or electric heating pad
question
Moist heat applications ____ the skin more quickly and are more_______ than applications of dry heat because water is a better heat conductor than air.
answer
warm, penetrating
question
Apply moist heat with ______, ___, ____, including the ____.
answer
compresses, packs, soaks including the sitz bath
question
Sometimes wet compresses are used in combination with the ______ to provide longer-lasating moist heat.
answer
aquathermia pad
question
______ is a problem that may develop when moisture is applied directly to the skin for long periods.
answer
skin maceration
question
The clients skin may be protected by first applying a thin layer of __________, if ordered.
answer
petroleum jelly
question
Limit _________, The order typically specifies the length of time for the heat to be on and off.
answer
application time ex of order: Apply moist compresses for 15 minutes every hour WA(while awake)
question
Applying heat to localized areas of infection, such as abscess or infected appendix, may cause:
answer
rupture of the area heat application is contraindicated in this case. Systemic spread of the infection (generalized septicemia) may occur. This can be life threatening
question
The _____ pad, which produces dry heat is used to treat muscle sprains and mild imflammations and for pain relief.
answer
aquathermia
question
Temperature-controlled distilled water flows through the ______ pad.
answer
waterproof
question
When disassembling the aquathermia pad for return to the supply or equipment department you:
answer
-unplug the unit before to prevent shocks -empty the water out of the pump unit and out of the pad and connecting tubes. Disconnect the tubes over a sink; empty the water into the sink(to prevent leakage) -Discard the pad (bc its contaminated) -Return only the heater/pump to the equipment department -carefully wash hands
question
Write the temperatures for each in farenheit: Hot Warm Tepid Cool Cold
answer
Hot 100-105 f Warm 95-100 f Tepid 80-95 f Cool 65-80 f Cold 50-65 f
question
_____ relax muscles, stimulate circulation, and relieve pain.
answer
Infrared rays (IR) They have the same effect on the body as other forms of dry heat
question
_____ are not as penetrating as infrared rays. They are used to treat skin infections and wounds.
answer
Ultraviolet rays (UV)
question
_______ is a method of applying deep, penetrating heat to muscles and tissues. A lubricating gel is applied to the clients skin, and the paddle or wand is kept moving at all times, to prevent burns.
answer
Ultrasound (US)
question
(The heat cradle) In rare instances, a lamp, _____ or special heater is mounted on the inside of a bed cradle to provide dry heat.
answer
lightbulb
question
In some heat cradles, they have an automatic _____ that turns the lamp on and off at preset intervals.
answer
timer
question
Applying heat therapy:
answer
-heat is applied only when specifically ordered, and used with the utmost caution -specific body parts such as the eyelid, neck and inside of arm are especially sensitive to heat -each person has his or her own sensitivity to heat, apply source slowly and ask clients reaction -infants, older people, and those with fair, thin skin have less heat resistance. Lowered body resistance due to illness also makes body tissues less resistant to heat -Impaired circulation and some metabolic diseases make people more susceptible to burn(ex; clients who are in shock, or have any type of peripheral vasodilation disorder or diabetes) -clients revieving radiation therapy or chemo or those with any degree of paralysis are susceptible to burns -clients complaints. listen very carefully
question
An ____ heating pad is a covered network of wires that emits heat when electricity passes through it.
answer
electric
question
NEVER put _____ into a heating pad; if a pin touches the electric wires, it can cause shock. If wires are crushed or bent, the pad can overheat and cause burns or fire.
answer
pins
question
An electric heating pad can easily burn a client, particularly if he or she is paralyzed, has very sensitive or friable skin, or has neurologic impairments that causes insensitivity to heat changes. (T/F)
answer
True
question
Electric heating pads are unsafe to use with:
answer
children, confused, irrational, or unresponsive persons, clients who are suicidal, or clients who have spinal cord injuries
question
Warm, moist compresses and packs apply moist heat to an area to stimulate circulation, and promote _______. They may also be used to apply medications.
answer
wound drainage
question
Warm, moist gauze compresses (such as 4x4 gauze pads) apply ____ to a small area.
answer
heat
question
Large, warm moist packs of cotton or terry cloth apply heat over a ____ area.
answer
larger
question
Covering the pack with heacy, dry material helps it ____ heat longer.
answer
retain
question
Compresses and packs are usually not sterile. However if there is a break in the clients skin, ____ dressings are used.
answer
sterile
question
Sometimes you will need to apply a warm compress to a clients eye, the eyelid and skin around the eye are thin and delicate, and easily prone to injury. What would you do in this situation?
answer
You would use tepid water, not as warm for a larger pack. Use caution to prevent burning clients skin and eyelid. Wash hands carefully, and wear clean gloves. If the eye is draining, discard each compress when you remove it. Send all resuable equipment for sterilization after treatment. If applying compresses to both eyes use seperate equipment.
question
Immersing the clients affected body part in warm water or a solution for a prescribed time is called a _____.
answer
soak
question
What are some reasons for giving a warm soak?
answer
-improves circulation -increases blood supply to an infected area -assists in breaking down infected tissue -applies medications -cleans draining wounds -loosens scabs and crusts from encrusted wounds
question
soaks may be done in a ___ if the area is small or in a tub if the area is large. Often a soak may be combined with a whirlpool bath. This is commonly done in the physical therapy department.
answer
basin
question
Although the tub is usually not sterilized between clients, it must be cleaned ______ with soap, disinfectant, and water per agency protocol. Persons recieving soaks often have open wounds
answer
thoroughly
question
Use tap water for soaks unless ________.
answer
otherwise specified
question
The temperature of the water should be no higher than _____ degrees farenheit.
answer
105 farenheit
question
What are some things to remember to do when giving a soak?
answer
Test the water frequently, and add hot water slowly, to prevent burning the client. Stir the water to distribute the heat evenly. The usualy length of a soak is 15 to 20 minutes.
question
The purpose of the sitz bath is:
answer
to provide moist heat to the pelvic or perineal and perianal area. Often described for clients who have given birth or have undergone rectal or perineal surgery
question
The basin fits on the inside of the commode and is equipped with a bag, tubing, and nozzle to allow water to flow freely to the ____ area.
answer
perineal
question
If a client is at home, the client can be placed in a bathtub containing enough water to cover the clients hips and perineum. (T/F)
answer
True
question
Vasodilation application over a large area of the body may cause hypotension. All clients should be monitored closely and assisted when rising. What is the rationale on this?
answer
This helps to prevent injuries
question
Heat applications may be contraindicated in clients with known cardiac conditions or those taking certain cardiac medications to lower blood pressure. What is the rationale?
answer
These people may be more susceptible to changes in blood pressure and blood flow
question
The application of heat is almost always contraindicated if a client is actively bleeding. What is the rationale on this?
answer
Heat application can increase blood flow and thus increase the bleeding.
question
Cold causes ______, which decreases the amount of blood flow to an area, slowing the bodys metabolism and its demand for oxygen.
answer
vasoconstriction
question
What is the therapeutic goals of cold applications?
answer
controlling hemorrhages, reducing edema, easing inflammation, and blocking pain receptors
question
Cold application prevents escape of ___ from the body by slowing circulation, which also relieves congestion and often relieves muscle pain.
answer
heat
question
A cold application commonly serves what kind of purposes?
answer
-slows or stops bleeding -slows bacterial activity in clients with an infection -relieves pain following some types of surgery, tooth extraction, headache, or muscle or joint injury -reduces swelling in injured tissues, incluiding sprains and fractures -prevents peristalsis in clients with abdominal inflammation -relieves pain in engorged breasts -controls pain and fluid loss in the initial treatment of burns -diminishes muscle contraction and muscle spasms
question
___ application is more effective than heat for sprains or other soft tissues injuries and is the preferred treatment within the first 48 hours after the injury.
answer
cold
question
you may apply cold to prevent _____, however it will not reduce ____ that is already there.
answer
edema, edema
question
Methods of cold application include the use of:
answer
a compress, icecap, ice collar, icepack, sponge bath, and hypothermia (cooling) blanket
question
Apply cold, moist compresses to reduce _____ and _____ in soft tissue injuries or after tooth extraction
answer
swelling, and inflammation
question
The icecap, ice collar, or ice bag is a ____ _____ _____.
answer
dry cold application
question
The icecap has a wide opening that allows it to be____easily with ice chunks.
answer
filled
question
An _____ is a narrow rubber or plastic bag, curved to fit the neck. Often, prepared single-use ice bags are used.
answer
ice collar
question
Can application of an ice bag be done without an order?
answer
sometimes, such as for a headache, or in an emergency, a sprain or nosebleed
question
If a client complains of numbness in the area of the cold application-with the skin appearing white or spotty---indicate the need to discontinue application. What is the Rationale?
answer
Cold numbs nerve endings
question
Continued application of cold affects deeper tissues. Why is it important to monitor the client closely?
answer
Prolonged exposure to extreme cold may cause actual freezing (frostbite)
question
Cold often is applied to a sprain, strain, fracture or burn. Why?
answer
This helps to remove blood and lymph congestion in the area and reduces pain
question
What are the steps in applying a cold compress?
answer
-wear gloves if the client has an open wound or has had surgery -put the compresses in a basin containing pieces of ice and a small amount of water -explain to the client that the treatment will relieve discomfort -wring the compresses thoroughly and apply -change the compress frequently -continue treatment as ordered, usually for 15-20 min. Repeat every 2-4hrs as ordered. Clients who are able can apply the compress themselves -properly dispose of gloves, if used & wash hands -document
question
Single use and refreezable ice packs, explain them.
answer
Some are ready-for-use packs filled with a solution. These ice packs are used by sports teams, hikers and organization such as boy and girl scouts. Sometimes they can be reused but for only one client. Ice packs are also available for one-time emergency use. They have a capsule that when broke, or crystals, that when the bag is shaken, release a chemical that causes the bag to become cold
question
Some gel-filled packs also are available. These packs can be frozen or heated and used as either a hot or cold pack. These are ____ for only one client. Be aware that some of these bags may be frozen or heated in the microwave.
answer
reusable
question
Many icebags, particularly ones with the capsule or crystals become very cold. They can cause _____ fairly quickly. If the clients skin becomes blanched or extrememly red, discontinue the treatment and check asap to see what should be done.
answer
frostbite
question
A ______ is a bath with water below body temperature, usually in the range of 80-95 f.
answer
tepid sponge bath
question
Why might a tepid sponge bath be ordered?
answer
To reduce a clients elevated temperature
question
A tepid sponge bath may be temporarily soothing, but it may not produce a marked temperature drop unless it is used for_______,
answer
an extended period
question
If temperature is a threat to the clients life, other treatments than the tepid sponge bath are usually used to bring the temperature within a manageable range more quickly and permanently. (T/F)
answer
True
question
In conditions associated with a dangerously high temperature, an _____ or ______ often us used.
answer
ice mattress or hypothermia blanket
question
A hypothermia blanket (cooling blanket) is a plastic mattress pad through which very ____ water flows consinously. Its role is to decrease temperature.
answer
cold
question
Hypothermia blankets are used primarily in _____ to slow body processes and to prevent complications resulting from unstable temperature.
answer
surgery
question
,What are the steps in giving a tepid sponge bath to reduce body temperature
answer
-explain procedure -give client option to urinate before -take clients temp, record it -note if client has had antipyretic to reduce fever (such as inuprofen or tylenol) -Add tepid water to bath basin. Use a bath thermometer -Place moist, cool cloths--wrung out just enough to prevent dripping--in clients axillae and groin -be aware clients first response to tepid bath is normally chilliness, disappears as clients body grows used to it. Therefore continue at least 25-30 minutes. -measure temp throughout procedure to determine treatments effects -sponge each limb-as least 5 min. and back and buttocks at least 10-15 min. -stop procedure if client becomes chilled or begins to shiver -stop sponging as soon as clients temp comes back into normal range. -wash hands -document -take temp 30 min after bath has been completed. Report temp immediately if it has fallen to low (99.5)
question
Using an aquathermia (aqua-k) pad
answer
1. read instructions if not familiar. fill control unit receptacle to indicated "fill" line with distilled water 2. set temp control to 105 f or other temp as ordered. 3. cover pad with pad cover, sheet, pillowcase or towel 4. plug the control unit into an electrical outlet, and place the control unit on bedside table 5. when pad is heated, apply to specific body part. pad should rest on top of body part in nearly all cases. 6. if pad needs to be secured in place, use tape or roller bandage. never safety pins 7. tell client not to change temp settings 8. place call signal within clients reach 9. assess area for redness after 5 min. 10. remove pad after specified time for treatment as ordered 11. store pad until next treatment. make sure pad is only used by only one client
question
Applying warm, moist, compresses and packs
answer
1. use a hot pack machine set at the proper temp. otherwise, immerse the comnpress or pack in hot tap water( or heat the pack in a microwav for a one-time application) 2. apply petroleum jelly to the clients skin before applying 3. wring compress or pack with forceps or wringer, removing as much water as possible 4. shake the pack lightly, apply it to area gently at first, gradually pressing it gently againest the clients skin 5. ask client if pack is to hot. if so remove it and shake it in the air briefly to lower its temp. 6. cover moist compress or pack with a dry pack and moisture proof cover(omit this step if using the aquathermia pad) 7. provide clients with blankets during and after treatment 8. change pack as often as necessary to keep area heated 9. use aquathermia pad on top of large warm, moist pack, if ordered 10. assess condition of the clients skin at least every 10 minutes 11. continue treatment for prescribed time and then remove the application 12. use packs for one client only 13. dry skin and cover it.
question
Administering a tub soak to an arm or leg
answer
1. cover tub with bath towel 2. cover client with bath blanket 3. prepare water in tub(100-105 f) always use bath thermometer 4. wear gloves if client has open wound or rash. 5. gradually lower clients affected body part into the water 6. adjust the padding on edge of tub for the knee or elbow to rest on it. support body part with folded pilllow if necessary 7. test waters temp frequently. add hot water carefully if needed and stir water 8. remove clients are or leg from bath in 15 to 20 minutes or as ordered. dry clients skin 9. apply sterile dressing to wound(if one is present) properly dispose of equipment and gloves
question
Using a sitz bath
answer
1. put toilet seat up. place sitz bath on commode and fill reservoir with water at prescribed temperature. often 100-105 f. measure with bath thermometer 2. hang reservoir at a height that will allow water to flow from it through tubing and into the basin. IV pole often used for this purpose 3. assist client to sit in basin. make sure basin is filled to correct depth. make sure client is comfortable place folded towel in lumbar area, if client desires this. 4. be sure client has robe or blankets to put over shoulders 5. place call signal within clients reach, watch client clost for signs of fainting or weakness 6. instruct client to remain in tub for prescribed length of time 7. assist client out of sitz bath and help him or her to dry buttocks and return to bed 8. label sitz basin with clients name and record number
question
Applying icecap or ice collar
answer
1. inspect bags stopper or closure and test bag for leakage 2. fill icecap or collar about 3/4 fulls, using small pieces of ice. pour water over ice so ice melts slightly. 3. flatten bag on hard surface and press on it to expel as much air as possible 4. screw on top or fold over the end, making sure that top is firmly in place and secured. These bags may be closed with hook-and-loop fasteners 5. dry icecap or collar and cover it with a towel, securing towel with tape 6. adjust bag on part of the body to be treated. leave icecap or collar in place 15-20 min (no longer) wait one hour before reapplying unless directed otherwise. document on and off periods
question
When applying moist heat, which approach should the nurse use? A. always use sterile compresses and equipment B. apply treatment for 1 hour C. first, apply protective layer of petroleum jelly D. set heat setting at 110 f
answer
a
question
Which technique should be used when performing an ultrasound treatment? A. apply lubricating gel to skin B. hold paddle in one place for 30 seconds before moving to another area C. instruct client to perform treatment D. Perform treatment until client complains of tingling on the skin
answer
a
question
Physician orders tub soak for a client for 30 minutes at 110 f. Which action should the nurse take? A. administer bath as ordered B. question order with the physician, due to the possibility of burning the client C. request someone else give the bath D. set temp setting at 105 f
answer
b
question
Which of the following treatments would be most appropriate for a maternity client who has just delivered a baby and had an episiotomy? A. an aqua-k pad to perineum B. electric pad to perineum C. sitz bath to perineum D. warm compress to perineum
answer
c
question
To reduce fever, a tepid sponge bath would be done for at least: A. 5 minutes B. 10 minutes C. 15 minutes D. 30 minutes
answer
d
question
Aquathermia pad-
answer
pad which produces a dry heat by the use of temperature-controlled water flowing through a waterproof shell
question
hypothermia blanket-
answer
cooling blanket
question
sitz bath-
answer
bath used to apply heat to pelvic area
question
tepid sponge bath
answer
bath with water below body temperature, used to produce fever 70-85 degrees f
question
Aqua-k pad
answer
aquathermia heating pad
question
IR-
answer
Infrared rays
question
US-
answer
ultrasound
question
UV-
answer
Ultraviolet rays
question
WA-
answer
while awake
question
Heat dialates surface of what?
answer
Blood vessels also know as vasodialation
question
Whenever hear is applied take measures to protect the client from what kind of injuries?
answer
burn
question
Warm, moist applications do what faster than dry heat?
answer
heat the skin more quickly than dry heat
question
Water temperature for a soak should be no higher than what?
answer
105 degrees
question
What type of bath applies heat and water to the pelvic or perineal and perianal area?
answer
Sitz bath
question
What should you take measures against when heat is applied?
answer
possible burn injuries
question
What does cold do to surface blood vessles?
answer
Vasoconstriction- constricts blood vessels
question
Cold moist compresses are applied to what body parts?
answer
small
question
What can a tepid sponge bath be used for?
answer
to reduce a clients body temperature
question
When cold is applied it is important to prevent what?
answer
chilling
question
Several different pieces of equipment may be used to administer what?
answer
heat and cold treatments
question
________a bed cradle that has a lamp, lught bulb, or special heater inside it
answer
Heat cradle
question
________covered network of wires that emits heat when electricity passes through it
answer
Electric heating pad
question
_______Waterproof pad through which flows temperature-controlled distilled water
answer
Aquathermia pad
question
__________is a plastic mattress pad through which very cold water flows continuously.
answer
Hypothermia blanket
question
Cold application help to reduce edema. (t/f)
answer
false- cold applications do not reduce edema that is already present, however, they help to prevent edema
question
Alchohol is used in tepid sponge baths because it cools quickly (t/f)
answer
false- alcohol shoul not be used in a tepid sponge bath, because it cools too much and evaporates very quickly.
question
Cold application is more effective than heat for sprains or other soft tissue injuries. (t/f)
answer
true
question
Moist heat applications warm the skin more quickly than do dry heat applications. (t/f)
answer
true
question
Skin maceration may develop when dry heat is applied directly to the skin for long periods. (t/f)
answer
false- skin maceration may develop when moist heat is applied directly to the skin for long periods.
question
Application of ________to an abscess or infected appendix may cause rupture of the area.
answer
heat
question
A warm soak may be combined with a whirlpool bath usually in the ________
answer
physical therapy department
question
Cold causes_________which decreases the amount of blood flow to an area, slowing the bodys metabolism and its demand for oxygen.
answer
vasoconstriction
question
A child who requires a cold _________ treatment may be placed in a croupette.
answer
humidity
question
__________from heat application over a large area of the body may cause hypotension.
answer
vasodialation
question
What is the purpose of infrared treatment?
answer
Treatment with infrared rays is a form of dry heat that helps to relax muscles, stimulate circulation, and relieve pain
question
How is UV ray treatment helpful?
answer
Sunlight provides mild ultraviolet irradiation. UV rays are not as penetrating as infrared rays; they are used to treat skin infections and wounds.
question
For what type of clients is the use of electric heating pads unsafe?
answer
Electric heating pads are unsafe to use with children; with confused, irrational, or unresponsive patients, with clients who are suicidal, paralyzed or have very sensitive or fragile skin; or with clients who have spinal cord injuries.
question
What are refreezable ice packs?
answer
Refreezable ice packs are reusuable for one client only. They are gel-filled ice packs that can be either frozen or heated and used as either a cold pack or hot pack.
question
What step should the nurse follow for disassembling the aquathermia pad?
answer
"unplug the unit and discard the aquathermia pad" Rationale: The nurse should unplug the unit and discard the aquathermia pad. The nurse should always disconnect the unit before emptying the water out of the pump or disconnecting the tube, to prevent shocks. The tubes should be disconnected over a sink to prevent leakage. The nurse needs to return only the heater pump to the equipment department; the pad should be discarded, because it will be contaminated.
question
A nurse is educating a client who has been asked to take moist heat applications at home. What may occur if there is prolonged exsposure to the moisture?
answer
"skin maceration" Rationale: The nurse should inform the client that prolonged exposure to moisture can cause skin maceration or softening of tissues. Vasoconstriction, numbness, and slow circulation are effects of cold applications. Application of moist heat causes vasodialation which increases the circulation.
question
What should the nurse do when applying a warm compress to a clients eyes?
answer
"send reusuable equipment for sterilization" Rationale: The nurse should send reusable equipment for sterilization after the treatment is completed. The nurse should use tepid water, not warm water as for a larger pack to prevent burning to the clients eyelids and skin. The nurse should discard and not wash the compresses if the eye is draining. The nurse should use different equipment for each eye to prevent cross infection.
question
A nurse is assigned to assist a client with a foot soak. what should a nurse know are reasons for giving a warm soak?
answer
" it loosens scabs; it cleans draining wounds; it applies medications" Rationale: The nurse should know that a warm soak is used to loosen scabs and crusts, clean draining wounds, and apply medications. Soaking the affected body part in warm water for a prescribed time allows the scabs and crust to loosen from encrusted wounds. Warm soaks increase blood flow to the area which helps to drain wounds. Cold compresses not warm soaks control hemorrahage and blocks pain receptors.
question
What should the nurse ensure when assisting the client with a Sitz bath?
answer
" provide a stool to support the legs" Rationale: When assisting a client with a sitz bath the nurse should provide a stool to support the legs; this helps to prevent pressure on the blood vessels in the legs. The temperature of a sitz bath is measured with a bath themometer and is set between 100-105 F anything higher can burn the skin and cause bleeding due to vasodilation. The reservoir is supported on an IV pole at an adequate height around the basin to allow proper flow into the basin. The nurse should provide the client with a robe or a blanket to prevent chilling.
question
A client has been asked to apply an ice pack after a tooth extraction what should the nurse tell the client is a benifit of an ice pack?
answer
"it provides pain relief" Rationale: Application of an ice pack after a tooth extraction provides pain relief. Increased blood flow, increased drainage, and vasodilation are caused by heat application. Cold application cause vasonconstriction which leads to reduced blood flow and reduced drainage. They also reduce swelling in the injured area.
question
What is a step involved in the ultrasound heat therapy?
answer
"lubricating gel is applied to the clients skin" Rationale: Ultrasound heat therapy involves the application of lubricating gel to the clients skin. Ultraviolet heat therapy involves the use of rays to treat skin infections and wounds. A heat cradle has a special heater mounted on the inside of the bed, which is regulated to prevent injury during exposure.
question
What should the nurse consider when providing a tepid sponge bath to a client?
answer
"stop sponging as the clients temperature approaches normal" Rationale: The nurse should stop sponging as the clients temperature approaches normal because the temperature will continue to fall after the bath. Stopping the bath when the clients temperature is still above normal body temperature prevents it from dropping to low. The temperature of the water should be set between 26.6 and 35 C and not any lower. The nurse should place moist, cool cloths on the clients axillae and groin to cool the body effectively. The nurse should sponge each limb for at least 5 minutes and the back for at least 15 minutes.
question
A nurse should apply ice bags with capsules for a client with a muscle injury. What should the nurse consider during the treatment?
answer
"ask client to report sensations of burning pain" Rationale: The nurse should ask the client to report sensations of burning pain if any. Burning pain indicates tissue ischemia, which may lead to tissue necrosis. The client is observed for shivering or chilling and temperature is monitored continuously if the client is provided with an ice mattress or given a tepid sponge bath. The nurse should know that ice bags with capsules or crystals become very cold and can cause frostbite fairly quickly.
question
What condition does the nurse know that a sitz bath is contraindicated?
answer
"after active bleeding" Rationale: The nurse must know that a sitz bath is contrindicated after active bleeding. Heat application can increase blood flow and thus increase the bleeding. A sitz bath is used for clients after child birth or perineal surgery.