Which of the following is a nonpharmacologic comfort measure that can be used for a trauma patient with swelling?

• A. Administer oral analgesic.
• B. Place patient in Trendelenburg position.
• C. Remove all padding.
• D. Apply ice to swollen areas.

Answer: (D)

Nonpharmacologic comfort measures for swelling rely on cryotherapy. Applying ice to the swollen area causes vasoconstriction, which reduces local blood flow and edema, and it also helps numb the area by slowing nerve conduction, thereby decreasing pain. Use a barrier between the ice and skin, and apply for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time, every 1 to 2 hours in the early phase after injury. Avoid direct skin contact, and remove the ice if the patient develops numbness, color change, or excessive discomfort. Skip ice if there are circulation problems or open wounds, and always follow a clinician’s guidance for injuries like fractures. In contrast, an oral analgesic is a pharmacologic treatment, placing the patient in a Trendelenburg position is not appropriate for swelling in trauma due to potential spine or airway concerns, and removing padding could worsen tissue injury rather than provide comfort.