Which statement about frostbite management is true when there is a risk of re-freezing?

Which statement about frostbite management is true when there is a risk of re-freezing?

• A. Do not thaw if there is a chance of re-freezing
• B. Thaw the area immediately in warm water
• C. Massage the frostbitten area
• D. Apply direct heat with a flame

Answer: (D)

The main idea is to limit tissue damage by how you rewarm frostbitten areas when there’s a risk the tissue could re-freeze. If there is a chance the frozen area could refreeze, you should not thaw it. thawing ice from frostbite makes the tissue more vulnerable if freezing resumes, increasing damage and swelling once warmth returns. The safer path is to keep the tissue frozen until you can ensure it won’t refreeze, then rewarm under controlled conditions. If rewarming is appropriate, use a warm water bath around 37–39°C for about 15–30 minutes and protect the area with dry dressings while arranging rapid transport. Do not rub or massage frostbitten tissue, and never apply direct heat such as a flame or hot device, as these can cause severe burns. In summary, when re-freezing is possible, the correct approach is not to thaw.

The main idea is to limit tissue damage by how you rewarm frostbitten areas when there’s a risk the tissue could re-freeze. If there is a chance the frozen area could refreeze, you should not thaw it. thawing ice from frostbite makes the tissue more vulnerable if freezing resumes, increasing damage and swelling once warmth returns. The safer path is to keep the tissue frozen until you can ensure it won’t refreeze, then rewarm under controlled conditions. If rewarming is appropriate, use a warm water bath around 37–39°C for about 15–30 minutes and protect the area with dry dressings while arranging rapid transport. Do not rub or massage frostbitten tissue, and never apply direct heat such as a flame or hot device, as these can cause severe burns. In summary, when re-freezing is possible, the correct approach is not to thaw.