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UNIT 4 Supporting Physiological Function
■ Reduce oxygen requirements. ■ Help control bleeding. ■ Treat fevers. ■ Treat musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., sprains, strains, fractures, and contusions). ■ Prevent or reduce swelling after surgery (e.g., an ice pack may be applied to the perineum after child- birth; an ice collar may be applied to the throat after a tonsillectomy). Applications of cold have the following side effects: ■ Elevated blood pressure. Because cold causes vaso- constriction, cold therapy may increase the patient’s blood pressure. ■ Shivering. Prolonged cold may cause shivering, a nor- mal response as the body attempts to produce heat. ■ Tissue damage. Prolonged exposure to cold may cause tissue damage from impaired circulation. For guidelines in applying cold therapy, See Chapter 32, Clinical Insight 32-2 Using Cold Therapy, in Volume 2. Knowledge Check 32-11 ■ What is the effect of adding moisture to heat or cold treatments? ■ How long should heat or cold be applied to an area? ■ What precautions should you take before using heat or cold therapy?
FIGURE 32-17 A Sitz bath soaks the patient’s perineal area.
FIGURE 32-18 Aquathermia pads circulate water in the interior of the pad to create a constant temperature.
To explore learning resources for this chapter,
For guidelines (including water temperatures) for applying moist and dry heat, See Chapter 32, Clinical Insight 32-1, Using Heat Therapy, in Volume 2. Applying Cold Therapy The application of moist or dry cold causes vasoconstriction and decreases cap- illary permeability. It produces local anesthesia, reduces cell metabolism, increases blood viscosity, and decreases muscle tension. It also slows bacterial growth. Applica-
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Answers and Suggested Responses for all questions in this chapter Concept Map Knowledge Map References and Bibliography
tions of cold are used to: ■ Prevent or limit edema. ■ Reduce inflammation and pain.
Care Plan Care Map
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