NURSING PROCEDURE 54-5

Applying an Icecap or Ice Collar

SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT

Icecap or ice collar

Basin of chipped ice (do not use whole ice cubes)
Paper tape or cloth ties
Bath blanket (if needed)

RECOMMENDED TECHNIQUE

1. Wash hands.
2. Inspect the bags stopper or closure, and
test the bag for leakage.
3. Fill the icecap or collar about threefourths full, using small pieces of ice.
4. Flatten the bag on a hard surface, and
press on it to expel air.
5. Screw on the top or fold over the end,
making sure that the top is firmly in place
and secured. These bags may have VelcroTM
closures.
6. Dry the icecap or collar, and cover it with
a towel, securing the cover with tape.
7. Adjust the bag on the part of body to be
treated.
8. Leave the icecap or collar in place for 15
to 20 minutes. Wait 1 hour before reapplying it, unless directed otherwise.
9. Wash hands after applying the icecap or
ice collar and after removing it.
10. Document the treatment on the clients
chart, noting on and off periods and
the clients reactions.

KEY: E = Excels

Pass

S = Satisfactory

NP

Comments

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

__________________________________

NP = Needs Practice

Fail

Students Signature:

____________________________________________________________

Date: _________________

Instructors Signature: ___________________________________________________________

Date: _________________

Copyright 2003 by Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Procedure Checklists to Accompany

Rosdahl & Kowalskis Textbook of Basic Nursing, eighth edition, by Marjorie L. Roark.

135