injuries poisoning
Frostbite
Key Points
Depth of injury is difficult to recognize initially, although blood-filled blisters indicate deeper damage. Thaw frostbitten tissue as soon as possible using water that is tolerably warm to the touch (37 to 39° C); analgesia is usually required. Avoid thawing and refreezing. Keep affected areas uncovered, clean, dry, and elevated. Black tissue may represent a black carapace that will be shed or gangrene that will require amputation; surgery may be delayed until the demarcation is clear. Neuropathic symptoms (eg, sensitivity to cold, numbness) may persist indefinitely. 