Which action is NOT advised when treating frostbite?

Which action is NOT advised when treating frostbite?

• A. Move the victim to shelter
• B. Rub frostbitten area with hands or snow
• C. Remove gloves and warm the area with your hand
• D. Place dry sterile gauze between fingers or toes and apply a loose bandage

Answer: (B)

Rubbing frostbitten tissue with hands or snow is not advised because friction can cause more tissue damage. Frostbite already injures skin and deeper tissues by freezing, and massage or rubbing can tear delicate cells, worsen numbness, and lead to bigger injuries or blisters. The safer approach is gentle, controlled rewarming and protection. Move the person to a warm, sheltered place, remove wet clothing, and rewarm gradually in warm (not hot) water if available. If water isn’t available, use body warmth without rubbing; keep the area clean and dry and loosely cover it. For frostbitten fingers or toes, place dry gauze between them and apply a loose bandage to prevent them from sticking together. These steps help restore circulation while minimizing further damage.

Rubbing frostbitten tissue with hands or snow is not advised because friction can cause more tissue damage. Frostbite already injures skin and deeper tissues by freezing, and massage or rubbing can tear delicate cells, worsen numbness, and lead to bigger injuries or blisters. The safer approach is gentle, controlled rewarming and protection. Move the person to a warm, sheltered place, remove wet clothing, and rewarm gradually in warm (not hot) water if available. If water isn’t available, use body warmth without rubbing; keep the area clean and dry and loosely cover it. For frostbitten fingers or toes, place dry gauze between them and apply a loose bandage to prevent them from sticking together. These steps help restore circulation while minimizing further damage.