Which is an initial frostbite treatment step?

• A. Remove jewelry or other items that may restrict blood flow
• B. Thaw area immediately in warm water
• C. Break blisters
• D. Massage area

Answer: (A)

Relieving constriction right away is critical because frostbite injuries swell as they are rewarmed, and anything tight around the affected area can trap blood and worsen tissue damage. Removing jewelry or other items that may restrict blood flow prevents this unnecessary compression and allows circulation to improve as you begin care. After freeing constrictions, you would move toward warming the area, but the first step is to eliminate those tight items. Breaking blisters and massaging are not advised because they can cause further tissue injury and infection, and rubbing or massaging frostbitten tissue can damage already fragile skin.