What do I need to know about a cold compress or soak?

A cold compress or soak helps relieve pain, swelling, and itching. You may need a cold compress or soak to help manage any of the following: 

•      A sunburn

•      Poison ivy or poison oak

•      A rash

•      A bite or sting by an insect or jellyfish

•      A muscle or joint injury, such as a sprain

•      A high fever

How do I prepare and use a moist cold compress? 

Your healthcare provider will tell you how often to apply a cold compress: 

•      Wash your hands

•      Use a washcloth, small towel, or gauze as a cold compress

•      You can place the compress under running water or place it in a bowl with cold water. Squeeze extra water out of the compress

•      Place the compress directly on the area

•      Remove the compress in 10 to 15 minutes or as directed. Gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel

•      Wash your hands

•      Reapply the compress as many times as directed each day. Use a clean compress every time

How do I use a dry cold compress?

An ice pack, bag of ice, or bottle filled with cold water can be used as a dry compress. Cover the ice pack or bag of ice with a towel before you apply it to your skin. Leave the compress on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes or as directed. Your healthcare provider will tell you how often to apply the compress each day. 

How do I prepare and use a cold soak? 

•      Fill a clean container or tub with cold water. The container should be deep enough to cover the area completely

•      Remove any bandages

•      Soak the area for no longer than 10 minutes. Gently pat your skin dry when you are done soaking

•      Replace bandages as directed

•      Clean the container or tub when finished

•      Wash your hands

When should I contact my healthcare provider? 

•      Your symptoms do not improve or you have new symptoms

•      You have questions or concerns about your condition or care

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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