Frostbite

Question 1

what is frostbite

Answer 1

severe localized cold induced injury affecting the ear, nose, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes.

Question 2

1st degree frostbite

Answer 2

superficial localized pallor and surround edema

Question 3

2nd degree frostbite

Answer 3

large blisters that form eschar

Question 4

3rd degree frostbite

Answer 4

deeper and smaller hemorrhagic blisters

Question 5

4th degree frostbite

Answer 5

tissue necrosis extending to muscle and bone

Question 6

diagnosis of frost brite

Answer 6

clinical and seen in susceptible individuals like homeless mountaineers, soldiers and those stranded or working in the cold

Question 7

what can help predict longterm viability

Answer 7

Technetium 99 scintigraphy

Question 8

treatment of frostbite

Answer 8

rapid rewarming with water heated to 37-39 or 98-102 (not hot) to reduce tissue damage and to give analgesics (opioids) for pain control

Question 9

after thawing is completed in frostbite, what do you do next?

Answer 9

localized tissue should be red and purple and soft to touch.

The affected areas are usually air dried and covered with a first layer of nonadherent gauze using aseptic technique. Then give tetanus prophylaxis and possible splinting to prevent contractures, daily hydrotherapy and elevation of the affected area (to reduce edema).

Question 10

severe frostbite treatment

Answer 10

may need surgical consultation for possible tissue debridement escharotomy and or amputation