HHC Health & Home Care Clinical Policy And

HHC HEALTH & HOME CARE Section: 7-17
Skin Care: Warm/Moist Compress __RN
PURPOSE:
To increase circulation in specific subcutaneous areas
and to hasten the consolidation of exudate.
CONSIDERATIONS: *Physician’s order is required.
1. The procedure gives symptomatic relief to an area
of subcutaneous infection and inflammation.
2. Use clean technique.
3. Extremities may be soaked directly in very warm
water.
4. Precautions must be taken to avoid burns,
especially in patients with diminished circulation,
sensation, or ability to communicate.
EQUIPMENT:
Clean washcloth, 4x4 or ABD
Hot water bottle (optional)
Warm Tap water (water temperature should feel warm
against inside of wrist)
Protective bed pad
Impervious trash bag
Gloves
PROCEDURE:
1. Adhere to Universal Precautions.
2. Explain procedure to patient and have patient
assume a comfortable position.
3. To avoid skin maceration, it may be desirable to
apply petroleum jelly or moisture barrier cream to
intact skin.
4. Apply moist compress directly to affected area for
10 minutes.
5. Carefully check patient's tolerance to the
temperature of the compress. If the compress is too
warm, allow it to cool and reapply.
6. A hot water bottle may be used over a moist
compress to maintain heat. Do not allow uncovered
hot water bottle to come into direct contact with skin.
7. Discard soiled supplies in appropriate containers.
AFTER CARE:
1. Document in patient's record:
a. Patient's response to procedure.
b. Temperature and vital signs.
c. Appearance of the skin and lesions.
d. Instructions given to patient/caregiver.
2. Instruct patient/caregiver in procedure.
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