After applying moist heat to a patient's low back, signs of heat intolerance are observed. What should the therapist do?

When a patient exhibits signs of heat intolerance after the application of moist heat, the most appropriate action is to discontinue the moist heat treatment and document the findings. This approach prioritizes patient safety and well-being.

In such scenarios, monitoring the patient's response to treatment is essential, particularly when it comes to modalities like heat that can significantly affect the body. Signs of heat intolerance may include excessive sweating, a drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, or discomfort. These signs indicate that the patient may be experiencing an adverse reaction, and continuing with the treatment could exacerbate these effects or lead to further complications.

Discontinuing the treatment allows the therapist to reassess the patient's condition and consider alternative methods of pain relief or rehabilitation that may be better tolerated. Documentation of these findings is also critical for maintaining accurate medical records, informing future treatment decisions, and ensuring continuity of care.

While considering other options like limiting exposure or selecting a different heating agent might seem viable, they do not adequately address the immediate need to safeguard the patient's health in response to the observed intolerance. Therefore, terminating the current modality is the most responsible action.