NCLEX RN Practice Question

The correct answer is that impaired sensation at the site of pain is a contraindication for heat therapy. Applying heat to an area with decreased sensation increases the risk of burns because the client cannot accurately feel if the heat is too intense. The client's blood pressure is not a direct contraindication for localized heat application. The absence of redness or swelling does not contraindicate heat for muscle strain. A high pain level is the reason for the intervention, not a contraindication.