Why is it important to test temperature sensation before applying heat or cold modalities in the clinic?

A. To avoid burning the client
B. To know whether to adjust the thermostat in the room
C. To know whether to put a blanket on the client
D. To find out whether the client prefers heat over cold or vice versa

ANS: A
Thermal receptors detect warmth and cold. C fibers are associated with information about heat. A-delta fibers are associated with information about cold. In the clinic it is important to test temperature sensation before applying heat or cold modalities to avoid burn injuries. Thermal re-ceptors are also critical for a person to be able to determine safe water temperature for bathing. The client with thermal sensory loss may need to learn compensatory strategies, such as testing the water temperature with an unaffected body part.