Which action should be avoided in frostbite care in the field?

Which action should be avoided in frostbite care in the field?

• A. Protect from further cold
• B. Do not rub
• C. Rewarm gradually if safe
• D. Rub vigorously the frostbitten area

Answer: (D)

In frostbite care, the key step is to avoid causing further tissue injury by rubbing. The tissue is extremely cold and fragile, and ice crystals have formed inside cells. Massaging or rubbing pushes those crystals around, can rupture cell membranes, damage tiny blood vessels, and expand the area of injury. That’s why vigorous rubbing is specifically avoided in the field. What to do instead is handle the area very gently, protect it from additional cold, and rewarm only when it can be done safely. Rewarming should be gradual and done with warm water (roughly 40–42 C or 104–108 F) for about 15–30 minutes until sensation returns, avoiding any rapid or harsh heat. Do not rub during rewarming or afterward. Also, keep the person warm overall, remove wet clothing, and prevent further exposure to cold and refreezing.

In frostbite care, the key step is to avoid causing further tissue injury by rubbing. The tissue is extremely cold and fragile, and ice crystals have formed inside cells. Massaging or rubbing pushes those crystals around, can rupture cell membranes, damage tiny blood vessels, and expand the area of injury. That’s why vigorous rubbing is specifically avoided in the field.

What to do instead is handle the area very gently, protect it from additional cold, and rewarm only when it can be done safely. Rewarming should be gradual and done with warm water (roughly 40–42 C or 104–108 F) for about 15–30 minutes until sensation returns, avoiding any rapid or harsh heat. Do not rub during rewarming or afterward. Also, keep the person warm overall, remove wet clothing, and prevent further exposure to cold and refreezing.