Physical Therapist Aide how-to

How to Prepare a Hot Pack

Safe heat soothes muscles.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Safe heat soothes muscles. In short: take; wrap; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Take the pack from the heater.

  2. Wrap in towels.

  3. Check temperature.

  4. Place on the patient as directed.

  5. Check skin regularly.

  6. Remove on time.

Safety reminders for physical therapist aides

  • Check skin with hot and cold packs
  • Use safe lifting
  • Follow infection control
  • Report concerns to the PT

Hot pack · Cold pack · Treatment table · Exercise flow sheet · Gait belt · Transfer: see the full physical therapist aide glossary.

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