If there is a chance of re-freezing, what should you avoid with frostbite?

If there is a chance of re-freezing, what should you avoid with frostbite?

• A. Thawing the affected area
• B. Applying heat with warm water
• C. Rubbing the area
• D. Protect with dry gauze

Answer: (A)

When frostbite may refreeze, the important point is to avoid thawing the affected area. Thawing in that situation can cause more tissue damage because ice crystals form and swellings and microvascular injury worsen; if the tissue refreezes afterward, the injury becomes even more severe. So keep the area frozen and protected from further cold, limit movement, and cover with dry, non-adherent dressings to insulate. Do not rub the skin and avoid applying external heat. Seek rapid transport to a facility where controlled rewarming can be performed if and when it’s safe to do so.

When frostbite may refreeze, the important point is to avoid thawing the affected area. Thawing in that situation can cause more tissue damage because ice crystals form and swellings and microvascular injury worsen; if the tissue refreezes afterward, the injury becomes even more severe. So keep the area frozen and protected from further cold, limit movement, and cover with dry, non-adherent dressings to insulate. Do not rub the skin and avoid applying external heat. Seek rapid transport to a facility where controlled rewarming can be performed if and when it’s safe to do so.