"All these propelled our team members to brainstorm for a new cold pack with the purpose of providing a more effective and comfortable way of reducing the patient's fever. This is very important as a high fever if not treated properly could lead to serious complications such as fits and even brain damage." said Nursing Officer Chia Swee Khim, the team leader of the Quality Circle team, Brainstormer.

Senior Staff Nurse Fauziah Bte Jabil administering the newly invented cold pack on a patient.

A survey was conducted to gather feedback from patients using the new method. 90% of the patients commented that the cold pack was not stiff, the effect was soothing and there is no restriction to movement. What's more, it is readily available whenever it is required.

A patient, Mr Tan Ah Kau, 55, used the newly invented cold pack recently when he had a temperature of 38 degrees celsius. He said, "It was comfortable using the cold pack as it was soothing and there was no leakage. Besides, It didn't slip off my head as it was secured by the bandage (setonet)." Mr Tan's temperature was brought down to 37.2 degrees celsius, after the cold compress was applied.

The hospital has started using the cold pack since June 1999. Most nurses have found it both effective and easy to prepare. The cold pack also acts as a first-aid treatment that can be used to reduce swelling or bleeding from the nose. As all the materials are easily available, you can also do it yourself at home.