Premergency First Aid, CPR and AED Manual

9 Other Emergencies

Frostbite Frostbite is the actual freezing of tissue. Freezing damages cells, and the presence of ice crystals can cause physical damage if the frozen part is used or moved excessively. Damage also occurs when frozen tissue thaws and this can cause tissue death, called gangrene. If damage is less severe, the exposed part will become inflamed, swollen, and tender. The frostbitten part is hard and looks waxy. It feels firm and frozen when you gently touch it. If the frostbite is superficial, it will feel leathery or thick but not hard or frozen through. Frostbitten skin can blister. If the injury has thawed, it can look red with purple and white or it may be mottled or cyanotic.

First aid for frostnip and immersion foot focuses on keeping the parts warm and dry. Use passive warming techniques. Move the person to shelter if available. Cover exposed parts with warm, dry, and non- constrictive clothing. Keep feet as warm and dry as possible. Recovery from frostnip and immersion foot is typically short with little complication.

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