What preparation should be done before starting IPC treatment?

Emptying the bladder before starting IPC (Intermittent Pneumatic Compression) treatment is crucial for patient comfort and effectiveness of the treatment. If a patient has a full bladder, they may experience discomfort during the procedure, which could lead to distraction and an inability to relax properly. This relaxation is essential for achieving the best results from IPC therapy, as it relies on the proper functioning of the compression cycles.

In contrast, while it may be beneficial for patients to remain seated, take pain medication, or cool the limb, these preparations do not have the same level of importance or direct correlation to the successful application of IPC as ensuring that the bladder is empty. A focus on the patient's comfort and minimizing disruption during the treatment aligns with sound clinical practice.