A Systematic Review of the Potential of Cold Compresses Therapy: Strategy for Preventing Hematoma and Alleviating

Firman Sugiharto1, Irma Yusanti1, Wulan Puspita Sari1

  • 1Master Study Program, Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia.

Journal of Pain Research
|January 17, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Cold compress therapy, applied for 15-20 minutes, can effectively prevent hematomas and reduce pain after cardiac catheterization. This non-invasive method offers a valuable nursing strategy for post-procedure patient care.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Nursing
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Patient Recovery Strategies

Background:

  • Cardiac catheterization procedures are frequently associated with complications like hematoma and pain.
  • These complications lead to extended hospital stays and increased healthcare costs.
  • Existing research suggests cold compress therapy's efficacy, but a comprehensive synthesis is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the effectiveness of cold compress therapy in preventing hematoma and alleviating pain post-cardiac catheterization.
  • To explore cold compress therapy as a potential nursing intervention for post-cardiac catheterization patients.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review adhering to PRISMA Extension guidelines was conducted.
  • Literature search across six databases (CINAHL Medline Plus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Taylor and Francis) and Google Scholar.
  • Quality assessment using Joanna Briggs Institute tools; thematic data synthesis.

Main Results:

  • Twelve articles were analyzed, indicating positive outcomes for cold compress therapy.
  • Application of cold compresses for 15-20 minutes showed potential in preventing hematomas.
  • Cold compress therapy demonstrated effectiveness in reducing post-procedure pain.

Conclusions:

  • Cold compress therapy is a viable strategy for preventing hematomas and managing pain in patients after cardiac catheterization.
  • Nurses can integrate cold compress therapy into nursing care plans for enhanced patient recovery.
  • This non-pharmacological approach supports improved patient outcomes and potentially reduces healthcare costs.
Abstract