Hot Compress
A hot compress involves applying moist heat to a body part. This is also known as a fomentation. A hot compress will increase blood flow to the area, promote sweating and increase white blood cell count.
Materials
Towels
Hot water
Blanket
Instructions
Ensure the person is comfortable
Cover the area being treated with several layers of dry towels
Place the heated towel on top of the dry towels
Ensure that it is not too hot for the person
Cover the hot towel with several layers of dry towels or a blanket
Treatment time is 20-30 minutes
Do not let the person lie down the hot towel
After the treatment dry the area
A hot compress can be used for
Muscle spasms or soreness
Joint pain
Arthritis
Pharyngitis
Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
Relieve nervous tension
Caution
Do not use on acute injuries or bleeding areas, persons with congestive heart failure, low sensation, malignant tumours
Reference
Hydrotherapy Theory and Technique