Arrange the steps for preparing an ice bag in the correct order.

• A. Fill the bag with water, and check it for leaks. Fill two thirds of the bag with crushed ice. Squeeze the bag's sides to release any air. Cover the bag with a flannel cover, towel, or pillowcase.
• B. Fill two thirds of the bag with crushed ice. Fill the bag with water, and check it for leaks. Squeeze the bag's sides to release any air. Cover the bag with a flannel cover, towel, or pillowcase.
• C. Squeeze the bag's sides to release any air. Fill the bag with water, and check it for leaks. Fill two thirds of the bag with crushed ice. Cover the bag with a flannel cover, towel, or pillowcase.
• D. Cover the bag with a flannel cover, towel, or pillowcase. Fill the bag with water, and check it for leaks. Fill two thirds of the bag with crushed ice. Squeeze the bag's sides to release any air.

Answer: (A)

When preparing an ice bag, the goal is a leak-free container that provides even cooling with skin protection. Start by filling the bag with water and checking for leaks. This test shows any tears or weak seams before ice is added, so you don’t waste ice or cause spills. After confirming the bag is leak-free, fill two-thirds of the bag with crushed ice. This amount gives cooling power while leaving space for the ice to pack and melt without overfilling. Then squeeze the bag’s sides to release any trapped air, ensuring close contact with the skin and an even distribution of the ice-water mixture. Finally, cover the bag with a flannel cover, towel, or pillowcase to protect the skin from direct cold and provide insulation.