Author Question: The nurse is providing instructions to a client regarding the use of ice packs to treat an eye ... (Read 71 times)

yoooooman · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

The nurse is providing instructions to a client regarding the use of ice packs to treat an eye injury. The nurse instructs the client to:

1. Place the ice pack directly on the eye.
2. Avoid the use of commercially prepared ice bags.
3. Keep the ice pack on the eye continuously for 24 hours.
4. Wrap a plastic bag filled with ice with a pillowcase, and place it on the eye.

Question 2

The physician writes a prescription to apply a heating pad to a client's back. The nurse implements the prescription and avoids which of the following?

1. Setting the heating pad on a low setting
2. Placing the heating pad under the client
3. Assessing the heating pad periodically for proper electrical function
4. Assessing the skin integrity frequently for signs of burns

missalyssa26 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

4

Rationale: If an ice pack is placed directly against the skin or left in place for an extended peri-od, it carries a risk of tissue damage similar to that of a hot water bottle. To prevent tissue dam-age from excessive cold exposure, the ice pack should be removed in most cases after 30 minutes and, after a short time, may be reapplied. An ice pack should never be placed directly against the skin but should be covered with a pillowcase or towel. Commercially prepared ice bags are ap-propriate for use as an ice pack.

Answer to Question 2

2

Rationale: The heating pad should never be placed under the client, but it should be placed lightly against or on top of the involved area. Burns to the skin can occur when the client lies on the pad. Setting the heating pad on a low setting, assessing the heating pad periodically for proper electrical function, and assessing the skin integrity frequently for signs of burns are appropriate measures for the use of a heating pad.