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Contrast Baths

affect the water temperatures, so the latter should be checked several times during the treatment. If
hot water needs to be added during the treatment, ALWAYS have the patient remove the extremity
BEFORE adding it. Recheck the temperatures with a candy/dairy thermometer after adding either
hot or cold water Have (help) the patient immerse the part into the hot water and at the end of the
desired time, tell him to remove it from the hot water and immediately, without hesitation, put it
into the cold water. Repeat the procedure at the end of the cold period. Remain with him until he is
sure of how to do the procedure and you are confident he will do it exactly. Be sure he is otherwise
warm. Terminating the Treatment At the end of the total treatment time, have (help) the patient
remove the part and dry it thoroughly. Check the skin. Be you wipe up any water on the floor
BEFORE allowing the patient to stand. Wash the containers with a mild disinfectant and detergent
after each treatment. sure Home Treatment Home treatment with contrast baths is simple and
inexpensive. wastebaskets may be used. Give the patient a written handout stating timing routines,
water tem- peratures, how many times a day he should treat himself, and how many times a week.
Instruct him to use a candy ther- mometer, as well as his hand, to check the water temperatures
such as water on the floor, too hot water, etc. Large kitchen type plastic List any dangers

Chapter 35

TANK OR POOL HOIST

Preparations for Lifting the Patient. check the hoist to be SURE it is grounded (if electrically driven)
and that it is operating safely and efficiently. The cables should no: be frayed or twisted and the
cable hooks MUST be working properiy. Be sure that the cable stretcher to which the cable hooks
will be attached are safe to use. rings The stretcher canvas should not be rotted or have any holes in
it other than those purposely put in to allow drainage, a MUST be securely attached to the stretch
frame with no sag in it. Align the plinth with the hoist so the middle of the plinth (from end to end) is
directly under the hoist track. Piace a wide safety strap on the PLINTH (NOT the stretcher) at the
approxi- mate level where the patient's pelvis will be. If the patient has ANY upper extremity
AND/OR neck weakness, AND/OR he cannot swim, AND/OR he is afraid or exhibits fear to you, he
should ALWAYS be secured to the hoist stretcher. Place the stretcher on the plinth with the drain
holes in the frame tubing facing down. If the stretcher canvas is wet, cover it with several bath
towels so the "shock" of getting onto a wet room-temperature canvas will be less. Check the
tank/pool headrest to be ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN it is secure and there is NO chance it will come off.
(It is ALWAYS wise to have a patient wear interfere with the treatment.) a life preserver with a collar
as long as it does not

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