NCLEX Success

Did you know that frostbite is considered a type of burn becauses it causes similar tissue damage as a burn and is also classified in a similar manner (first, second, third degree or superficial and deep frostbite)? One of the most common visits to emrgency rooms and trauma centers during this time of the year is hypothermia and frostbite. The temperature in Chicago overnight and into tomorrow is anticpated to be -63 with windchill!! It takes only seconds to minutes to cause what you see in this picture and even worse! This is frostbite. .
Frostbite injury results from two mechanisms: direct tissue freezing AND resulting ischemic necrosis. Localized injury occurs when isolated parts of the body are exposed to prolonged, intense ( subfreezing) cold. Patients may also have hypothermia. Most commonly affected areas are feet, hands, nose, ears and cheeks. .
Cellular tissue freezing begins at 10 C ( 50 F). Its usually a slow process but can occur rapidly with liquid chemicals. Hemolysis of RBCs occurs with loss of myoglobin and K+ into the vascular space. Osmotic pressure increases in the interstitial space secondary to fluid shift ( what you see in the picture! ) This results in intra cellular dehydration! peripheral vasoconstriction occur. Distal tissues are deprived of O2/nutrients/waste removal and ultimately necrose with permanent tissue loss! .
Interventions for frostbite: - Remove patient from the elements and provide shelter. - Remove wet/ constrictive clothing & jewelry. -Do not rewarm if danger of refreezing exists
-Remove the risk factors and protect until sustained warmth is available.