Frostbite

Frostbite is local tissue destruction resulting from prolonged exposure to extreme cold. In mild cases, frostbite will result in superficial, reversible freezing followed by erythema and slight pain. In severe cases it can be numbness, paresthesia, painless and result in blistering, persistent edema and gangrene. Fingers, toes, nose and ears are the areas often affected.

Medical or nursing intervention of frostbite will include:

• Handle the tissue gently.
• Rewarm the affected area rapidly with a warm water bath (90o to 107o F) in 15 to 20 minutes or until the skin flushes.
• Avoid massage.
• Do not debride blisters.
• Apply bulky dressing as prescribed to provide protection.