Heat and Cold Application Quiz

An ice bag is an example of:

• dry heat.

• moist heat.

• dry cold.

• moist cold.

The time that is usually recommended for the application of heat or cold is:

• 10 to 15 minutes.

• 15 to 30 minutes.

• 30 to 45 minutes.

• 1 hour.

Which of the following individuals would have a more than usual sensitivity to the local application of heat?

• Elderly individual

• Preschool child

• Patient with diabetes mellitus

• Patient with an open wound

• All are correct

Local application of heat results in:

• dilation of blood vessels in the area.

• decreased blood supply to the area.

• decreased tissue metabolism.

• constriction of blood vessels in the area.

Redness of skin caused by dilation of superficial blood vessels in the skin is known as:

• hypoxia.

• erythema.

• suppuration.

• inflammation.

Heat is often prescribed by the provider for:

• black eyes.

• osteoporosis.

• fractures.

• arthritis.

When explaining the use of a heating pad, the medical assistant should instruct a patient to:

• lie on the pad.

• use pins to secure the pad in place.

• adjust the pad to a higher setting if it no longer feels warm.

• place a protective covering over the pad.

• all are correct.

After immersing a patient’s foot in a hot soak, the medical assistant should:

• ask the patient how the temperature feels.

• increase the temperature of the water.

• add crushed ice.

• instruct the patient to wiggle his or her toes.

An ice bag should be filled with small pieces of ice to:

• prevent the application from becoming too cold.

• allow the bag to mold better to a body area.

• prevent adverse secondary effects.

• avoid irritation to the patient’s skin.

Chemical cold packs should be stored:

• at body temperature.

• at room temperature.

• in the refrigerator.

• in an airtight container.