•  ice Ice Pack ice
    Why?
     
    Most of the time, students come to the nurse and say, "I need an ice pack".
    As a school nurse, I will as ,"Why?"  Not all situations require ice. I am happy to evaluate the situation and decide if an ice pack is necessary.
     
    Here is some information from About Kids Health:

    Cold packs

    An ice pack can immediately reduce pain caused by bruising, muscle strains and spasms, sprains, and insect stings. Ice acts like a mild local anaesthetic and can reduce swelling if applied to an acute injury. It should never be applied directly to the skin, nor should the weight of a limb rest on an ice pack. Both of these actions may burn the skin.

    Crushed ice, ice cubes, or frozen peas can be used at home to make up an ice pack. Put the ice in a plastic bag and wrap it in a damp towel. You are then ready to apply the pack to the skin overlying the area to be cooled. The ice pack should be applied for up to 10 minutes at a time and then removed. Wait one hour then re-apply if necessary.

    Caution should be used when applying an ice pack to children under six months of age. They are much more sensitive to cold and their skin is more fragile.

     
     For more detailed information, please go here.