When applying cold therapy, a nurse correctly understands that
A) Ice or another source of cold should be placed directly on the patient's skin.
B) Cold therapy works best when alternated with heat therapy.
C) A thin cloth barrier should be placed between the source of cold and the patient's skin.
D) The treatment should be applied for about 45 minutes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A thin cloth barrier should be placed between the source of cold and the patient's skin to prevent tissue damage or frostbite. Direct application of ice or another source of cold can cause injury to the skin and underlying tissues.

Answer: B
 Cold therapy works best when alternated with heat therapy, as it helps to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. This is known as contrast therapy and is often used in the management of conditions such as arthritis and sports injuries.

Answer: C
 A thin cloth barrier should be placed between the source of cold and the patient's skin. This is important to prevent tissue damage or frostbite due to direct application of cold.

Answer: D
 The treatment should be applied for about 20 minutes at a time, with at least 1-2 hours of rest in between. Prolonged application of cold therapy can lead to tissue damage and may be counterproductive in reducing inflammation and pain.

When Applying Cold Therapy, a Nurse Correctly Understands That