In what form are hot packs primarily stored before use?

Hot packs are primarily stored in a hydrocollator filled with hot water before use. The hydrocollator serves as a heating apparatus that maintains the temperature of the hot packs, ensuring they are ready for application when needed. This method allows the packs to remain consistently warm and provide effective therapeutic heat when applied to an area of the body.

The hydrocollator's design permits the hot packs to absorb heat from the water, keeping them at an appropriate temperature for thermal therapy. This is essential in therapeutic settings, as maintaining the packs at a stable and effective heat level contributes to their ability to relieve pain, increase circulation, and promote relaxation in patients.

Other storage methods, such as placing hot packs in a freezer or a cooler, would not be suitable because they would lead to the packs becoming cold and ineffective for their intended use. Similarly, a dry cabinet would not provide the necessary heat, and although a dry cabinet might be used for other therapeutic items, it does not maintain the required warmth for hot packs.