Electrical Currents for Tissue Healing - chpt. 14

Contraindications and precautions

same as general ES contraindications plus…

• may need to use lower amplitude if sensation is impaired or skin integrity is compromised

• electrodes place in wound or on a patient with an infection are used only ONCE

• self-adhesive electrodes can be used with one patient only

• protective covers for ES units should prevent spread of communicable diseases (MRSA) should be left in the patient’s room

ES can promote tissue healing by

applying current to the wound

control edema

promote transdermal delivery of cells to an electrical charge

galvanotaxis: attraction of cells to an electrical charge

wound healing: ES promote tissue healing by

negative electrode

promote tissue healing of inflamed or infected wound

close or into the wound

(acute)

positive

promote tissue healing of wounds w/out inflammation

what are attracted to negative electrodes?

What are attracted to positive electrodes

High-volt pulsed current - for tissue healing

ES for edema control

polarity of edema → negative

edema associated w/ lack of muscle contraction

reduces edema by promoting muscle contraction that compress the veins and lymphatic vessel. should be combined with elevation and followed with compression garments

• not for sedentary people that are healthy and chose not to work out

Waveform - biphasic (NMES or Russian)

Iontophoresis

transcutaneous delivery of ions into the body for therapeutic purposes using a low amplitude direct current

• have to have the same charges

• charged electrodes “repeals” the charge medication particle

• it promotes transdermal drug penetration by increasing the permeability of the skin

• (just letting it soak in does not)

iontopatch

battery within the electrodes use a low voltage output so a low current () delivers meds for 1-24 hrs

only know medications on the powerpoint

application

redness is normal since its direct contact (shouldn’t be prolonged redness)

Look at documentation