In a country like Canada, where temperatures in many areas hover well below freezing for extended periods of time, frostbite can be a serious concern. Available in both English and French, the updated Frostbite chapter in CPS can help you assess, treat and monitor patients who present with frostbite.
What is frostbite anyway? Frostbite is the term used for frozen skin and tissues below the skin. It can happen when skin freezes from exposure to extremely cold weather or water. Skin/tissue that is affected by frostbite must be handled carefully to prevent permanent damage. All but the most mild frostbite cases require medical attention.
People can more easily develop frostbite if they drink excessive amounts of alcohol, don’t dress warmly enough for the cold or have medical conditions that affect blood flow to their skin (such as diabetes). Watch carefully for signs of frostbite on body parts that are commonly exposed to the cold: cheeks, nose, ears, hands, fingers, feet, toes.
Patient infographic now available! "Frostbite: What You Need to Know" is a new patient infographic that you can share with your patients at risk of getting frostbite. It includes information on how to prevent frostbite, what they should and should not do if they suspect they have frostbite and outlines the signs and symptoms of serious frostbite.
What's in the CPS? In addition to the easy-to-read infographic that you can share with your patients, CPS provides you with critical information to help manage frostbite. The detailed assessment algorithm outlines signs and symptoms that will help you determine the severity of the condition, as well as offer appropriate treatment and referral options. It also includes a range of pain management and monitoring options if frostbite does occur.
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