adjunct II lab quiz 2

what are heating modalities useful for

decrease pain, increase circulation, increase joint motion, increase metabolism, and to reduce myospasms

how does the hydrocollator pack reduce pain

blocking the pain gate, sedating local nerve endings, and increased production of enkephalins

how does the hydrocollator pack increase circulation

vasodilation of blood vessels

how does the hydrocollator pack increase joint motion

softening of the muscles and tendons/ligaments around the joint

how does the hydrocollator pack assist healing

increased phagocytosis, lymphocytes, and increased lymphatic flow

how does the hydrocollator pack reduce myospasms

affects on muscle spindles --> softening of muscles --> less tension --> fewer fibers stimulated and decreased contraction

what temperature should the hydrocollator pack be at

170 degrees F

when do you place the hydrocollator pack in the terry cloth?

once excess water has drained

how many total layers of toweling should be around the hydrocallator pack

6 --> terry cloth pouch (2 layers) and 4 additional layers

(1 inch)

What is the order of placing the toweling on the area?

Towel on skin, terry cloth pouch on towel

how long is the hydrocollator pack applied

20-30 minutes

how should the hydrocollator pack feel

gradual warming but should never feel uncomfortable

what should you do after approximately 5 minutes of hydrocollator pack application

lift the hot pack and examine patient's skin looking for extreme redness or edema and palpate area to see if it is heating up

when should you terminate application of hydrocollator pack

extreme redness or edema

area is heating up but patient can't perceive it

what are contraindications of hydrocollator pack

deficient vascular system (peripheral vascular disease due to organic disease or advances CV disease)

areas of poor sensation (scars, diabetic neuropathies)

acute stage of injury or edema

cardiac failure/hypertension when heating large areas

low back or pelvis during pregnancy

recent hemorrhage

Closed space infection (abscess)

malignancy in the area --> increased metabolism could increase tumor activity)

why should metal jewelry be removed when using a hydrocollator pack

it conducts heat well and can cause local burns

what should you do when applying the hydrocollator pack to the face

cover eyes with wet cotton