A patient is brought to the Emergency Department with cold, white, waxy fingers and toes. The patient denies pain. Which intervention does the healthcare professional provide as the priority?
A)Applying local, dry heat
B)Rubbing or massaging the area
C)Immersing in warm water
D)Leaving the area uncovered

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient has signs of frostbite. Immersion in a warm-water bath (40°C to 42°C [104°F to 107.6°F]) until frozen tissue is thawed is the best treatment for frostbite. Rubbing or massaging the area would damage the traumatized cells. Dry heat is not used. Leaving the area uncovered would occur in order to immerse it.

A Patient Is Brought to the Emergency Department with Cold