In most cases, the decision to admit a patient can be made in under 48 hours, and many times in less than 24 hours, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Hospital costs for admitted inpatients are covered under Medicare Part A after the patient pays a deductible ($1,216 for 2014). But observation care is considered an outpatient service, and Part A doesnât cover such services.
Using an ice or cold pack Apply an ice or cold pack to the injured or sore area at least 3 times a day for as long as you have pain, swelling, and inflammation. For the first 72 hours, ice for 10 minutes, once an hour.
Types of Ice Packs and Cold Packs. 1  A frozen towel. To make a towel into a cold pack, place a folded, damp towel in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer for ten to twenty minutes. Then take the towel out of the bag and place it on the affected area. 2  Sponge. Wet a sponge and put in the freezer.