Sticking one's hand into 136-degree water would not be pleasant, but sticking it into gently moving air is comfortable. The warmer can be adapted for feet as well, Crowley said, adding that several patients with arthritis have wanted to know how to get one. Diabetes researchers headed by Dr. Ralph DeFronzo, professor of medicine at the Health Science Center, brought the need for such a device to instrumentation services. He supported the project in its early stages, and instrumentation services picked up the tab for the rest of the development. The hand warmer is about the size of an aquarium and has clear sides like a fish tank.
Patients stick their hands through a plastic port assembly on one end.
A small fan circulates the heat. The warmer includes several safety controls so that the patient suffers no discomfort. It's clear so that the nurse or doctor or therapist can observe the veins. People with lower body fat will be faster. The elderly will be faster.