When & Why?
Hot and cold therapies may help relieve pain, swelling, and muscle discomfort.
Heat:
- Promotes local blood flow.
- May help relax muscles and reduce stiffness.
Cold: - Reduces local blood flow and swelling.
- May decrease pain and inflammation.
Before You Start
- Review the care plan and confirm the therapy is authorized.
- Check application site, skin integrity, sensation, and circulation.
- Gather the approved equipment and protective covering.
- Explain the procedure and obtain permission.
Steps
- Confirm the correct treatment, location, and duration.
- Prepare the approved hot or cold application.
- Place a protective barrier between the device and skin.
- Apply according to the care plan.
- Monitor comfort and skin condition during treatment.
- Remove after the prescribed duration.
- Reassess skin and comfort, and report concerns.
Safety & Observations
- Never apply extreme temperatures directly to skin.
- Heat may cause burns; cold may cause tissue injury.
- Use additional caution with impaired sensation, circulation, fragile skin, or difficulty communicating discomfort.
- Do not independently apply treatment to an area with contraindications.
- Stop immediately for pain, unusual discoloration, numbness, or skin injury.
What Should I Remember?
- Correct temperature → Protect skin → Monitor → Remove.
- Module 14 mentions 10–15 minutes, but actual duration depends on the treatment order and facility policy.
- Do not leave residents unattended with potentially hazardous temperature applications.
- Report unexpected skin changes or discomfort.
Related
Practice
- Studied
- Observed
- Practiced
- Passed checkoff
Sources
- CNA Module 14 — Hot & Cold Therapies
- Facility hot and cold application procedure
Flashcards
What should a CNA monitor during ordered hot or cold therapy?03-application / clinical-skills
Answer
Skin changes, discomfort, and time or temperature limits in the care plan.
Why should hot or cold therapy not be applied without authorization?03-application / clinical-skills
Answer
Temperature injury or contraindications may occur.