Discharge Instructions: Using a Cold Water Therapy Device
Your doctor prescribed a cold water therapy device. A cold water therapy device helps reduce pain and swelling and aids recovery. The device maintains a constant and precise temperature, providing up to 7 hours of continuous cold water therapy. Here’s what you need to know about home care.
Home Care
Use the cold water therapy device as directed by your doctor. He or she will tell you how many hours a day you should use it.
Apply the pad to the area of your body that is injured. Don’t wrap the area too tightly; firm pressure is enough.
Press the hand pump 5 times. You will feel cold water fill the pad.
Pump again whenever the pad begins to feel warm (15-20 minutes). You can continuously circulate the cold water from the cooler. Most devices can provide about 7 hours of cold therapy.
Take pain medication as directed.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Call 911 right away if you have:
Chest pain.
Shortness of breath.
Otherwise, call your doctor immediately if you have:
Fever of 100.4°F or higher, or shaking chills.
Increased redness, tenderness, or swelling of the incision or injured limb.
Drainage from the incision.
Increased pain with or without activity.