Which action is part of proper frostbite care?

Prepare for the Maine Sea Kayak Test with essential resources. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, to ensure you're ready for the exam!

Multiple Choice

Which action is part of proper frostbite care?

Explanation:
Frostbite care centers on getting the affected tissue warmed safely and gradually. The best action is to warm gradually and not rub. When tissue is frozen, it’s numb and fragile, so rubbing or massaging can tear skin and damage underlying tissues, making the injury worse. The proper approach is gentle rewarming in warm water—about 37–40°C (98–104°F)—for 15–30 minutes, or until warmth and sensation return. After rewarming, keep the area warm and dry and avoid exposing it to cold again. Seek medical help if a large area is affected, numbness persists, or blisters form. Immersing in cold water or massaging vigorously would keep the tissue cold or cause additional trauma, so those actions aren’t appropriate for frostbite care.

Frostbite care centers on getting the affected tissue warmed safely and gradually. The best action is to warm gradually and not rub. When tissue is frozen, it’s numb and fragile, so rubbing or massaging can tear skin and damage underlying tissues, making the injury worse. The proper approach is gentle rewarming in warm water—about 37–40°C (98–104°F)—for 15–30 minutes, or until warmth and sensation return. After rewarming, keep the area warm and dry and avoid exposing it to cold again. Seek medical help if a large area is affected, numbness persists, or blisters form. Immersing in cold water or massaging vigorously would keep the tissue cold or cause additional trauma, so those actions aren’t appropriate for frostbite care.

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