Instructions for 'Cold Application'

1. Assess the patient’s temperature
2. Explain the procedure to the patient
3. Cover pillow with mackintosh and towel
4. Fill 2/3^rd of ice cap with ice cubes and expel air before closing cap
5. Add a pinch of salt to ice cubes before closing.
6. Check for any leakage.
7. Cover bag with flannel cover after drying with duster.
8. Place on the desired area.
9. Apply for ½ hour and then continue with one hour gap in between if temperature is still high.
10. Observe patient’s reaction (bluish skin discoloration, mottling or chills).
11. Recheck the patient’s temperature
12. Record the time, duration of ice application, and the patient’s reaction and response.
13. Replace the ice cap after emptying and drying it upside down. Once it is dry, blow it to prevent its sides from sticking together.