Which statement is NOT recommended in frostbite management?

Which statement is NOT recommended in frostbite management?

• A. Drain blisters
• B. Cover with loose, dry sterile dressing
• C. Separate fingers and toes with cotton
• D. Warm the affected area

Answer: (A)

Draining blisters is not recommended because those blisters act as a protective barrier that helps prevent infection and keeps the damaged tissue moist, which supports healing. Puncturing or draining them in the field can introduce bacteria, increase tissue trauma, and slow recovery. The other actions fit frostbite care: protecting the area with a loose, dry sterile dressing reduces further injury and contamination; separating fingers and toes with cotton prevents fingers from sticking together as swelling occurs, reducing secondary tissue damage; and warming the area is essential to restore blood flow and limit tissue loss, ideally through controlled rewarming in warm water rather than direct heat.

Draining blisters is not recommended because those blisters act as a protective barrier that helps prevent infection and keeps the damaged tissue moist, which supports healing. Puncturing or draining them in the field can introduce bacteria, increase tissue trauma, and slow recovery. The other actions fit frostbite care: protecting the area with a loose, dry sterile dressing reduces further injury and contamination; separating fingers and toes with cotton prevents fingers from sticking together as swelling occurs, reducing secondary tissue damage; and warming the area is essential to restore blood flow and limit tissue loss, ideally through controlled rewarming in warm water rather than direct heat.