What it means
The first steps after a soft-tissue injury such as a sprained ankle. Rest the injured part; apply ice wrapped in a cloth for about 20 minutes at a time; compress it with an elastic bandage; and elevate it above the level of the heart. Together these reduce swelling and pain.
For the nurse
Never put ice directly on the skin. Wrap the elastic bandage from the far end toward the body, not too tight, and check circulation below it.
Related terms
edema
Swelling caused by extra fluid trapped in the body's tissues.
knee pain
Pain felt in or around the knee joint.
neurovascular check
An assessment of blood flow, feeling and movement in a limb below an injury, cast, splint or surgery.