It is most effective on the thighs in cases of sciatica. It is, however, also applied in case of febrile disease.
THE WHOLE PACK
This is applied in nearly the same way as the three-quarter pack, but includes also the arms, breast and neck.
In this case the blanket must reach to above the ears. On top of the moist spread a towel is laid, which is first drawn around the abdomen. The patient's arms must be somewhat bent, so that they will not oppress the breast when packed with it. Otherwise the arms may be treated just like the legs, so that the moist spread touches them everywhere. When it is impossible to fasten the blanket at the neck with safety pins, it can be tucked firmly under both shoulders. The blanket must be drawn tightly over the shoulders and the ends tucked under the opposite shoulder. It must exceed the length of the patient by 18 inches. In case one blanket is not large enough, two must be used, one of which may be drawn down 6 inches below the other.
Additional blankets, pillows and comforters may be used in case of high fever.
The advice already given in regard to the differences in packs, depending on their various purposes of cooling, diverting, calming or dissolving, must also determine in this case as to the extra amount of covering. The access of cold air at the neck and legs, however, must always be carefully guarded against.
An ablution or bath must follow each whole pack.
If properly applied, the "whole pack" will be of the greatest benefit in all febrile and chronic cases.