Procedures for Use of Hydroculator Hot Packs

Hydrocollator packs are hot packs used to warm tissue and aid in healing, according to the insurance company Aetna. The hot packs are typically canvas bags filled with silica gel, which absorbs water. The hot packs are then wrapped in toweling and applied to the affected area to warm the body tissue.

Determining Use

• Hot pack use isn't suitable for all conditions.

  Hydrocollator hot packs are used when moist heat is preferred over radiant, drying heat, according to Aetna. Author of "An Introduction to Heat & Cold as Therapy" Laurel Fowlie says that the weight of a hydrocollator pack may be beneficial in some instances but not in others. Certain conditions and injuries may contradict the use of wet weight.

Heating the Packs

• Hydrocollator packs can be heated in a large pot.

  After determining whether or not to use a hot pack, hydrocollator procedure starts with the soaking and heating of the packs in a hydrocollator unit or a large pot. After bringing water to a boil, the heat should be turned off and the hot packs should be allowed to soak for a minimum of 20 minutes.

Wrapping the Packs

• Wrap hot packs in three to five towel layers.

  The second stage in the procedure is the draining and wrapping of the hot packs. Aetna says draining of excess water is important to avoid scalding. Allow excess water to run off before placing the hot pack into towels. Aetna recommends using six to eight towels to wrap the heated packs; Fowlie advises using two to three folded towels to create three to five layers underneath the hot packs and using one towel to place over the top. The toweling should be checked for excessive dampness to avoid scalding.

Placing the Packs

• Check to be sure that the towel doesn't become too wet.

  The third step of rocedure involves laying the pack on the affected area. Check in with the patient to determine if the hot pack is too hot or if the heat can be felt at all. Add towel layers if the heat is too intense; remove layers if the heat isn't warming the affected area.

Treatment Duration

• The area should be checked frequently.

  The hot packs may be used from 10 to 30 minutes depending upon tissue needs. Check the area frequently. The heating effects of the hot packs can last up to an hour after removal.

Maintenance

• Hot packs can be stored in the freezer.

  Clean the hydrocollator heating unit frequently. Don't allow the hot packs to dry out after use: keep them in the heated hydrocollator unit, covered with water, or freeze them in a plastic bag. Do not store the hot packs at room temperature.