A cold compress is used to cool an injured area, to protect tissues by slowing metabolism and reducing swelling. It is possible to make a compress with a cloth soaked in cold water or use commercial bags or pads that can be cooled in the freezer or thanks to a chemical reaction. Cold compresses are important for treating soft tissue injuries, such as strains, sprains, bruises, and toothaches.
Steps
Step 1. Elevate the injured area above the patient's heart level if possible
If this is not possible, lift the injury as much as possible without making the patient uncomfortable. The use of cold and elevation work in concert to prevent swelling of the area, which can cause pain and damage to the affected tissues.
Step 2. Prepare the tablet
- Create a compress by wrapping ice in a small towel or cloth, or filling a plastic bag. You can also use a large bag of frozen vegetables. The best ice packs are commercially available ones designed specifically to be used as cold compresses.
- Use a commercial ice pack stored in the freezer. The pad may be filled with gel or small balls that remain cold for a long time after being removed from the freezer.
- Activate a chemical ice pack by breaking the internal chemical bag. This will cause them to mix with the substances in the outer bag, creating an endothermic reaction that will cause the package to cool.
Step 3. Gently place the cold compress on the injured area, making sure to cover it completely, or rest the injured limb on top of the compress
- Be sure to keep a cloth or bandage between the cold compress and the patient's skin. If you apply a homemade compress, such as a sachet filled with ice, directly to the skin, you could suffer from cold burns. Many commercial tablets have a thick outer cover that protects the skin.
- The patient may need to hold the tablet steady, depending on the location of the injury. You can also use a large bandage to hold the tablet in place.
Step 4. Improve contact between the compress and the skin by wrapping a bandage around the compress and the injured area
Do not wrap the bandage too tightly, as doing so may restrict the blood supply to the injured area and cause pain in the patient.
Step 5. Remove the cold compress after 20 minutes to avoid cold burns
If you are using chemical ice, discard the package after use.
Step 6. Reapply a cold compress after 2 hours
Alternate 20 minutes with the tablet with 2 hours without tablet for 3 days or until the swelling goes away.
