During transport of a frostbitten foot, what is the recommended action?

• A. Cover his foot with chemical heat compresses.
• B. Rewarm his foot in 102°F to 104°F (38.9°C to 40°C) water.
• C. Administer oxygen via a nonrebreathing mask.
• D. Protect the affected part from further injury.

Answer: (D)

Protecting the affected part from further injury is the best action during transport. Frostbite tissue is extremely fragile, and any additional manipulation, heat, or pressure can worsen damage. Handling it with care—avoiding rubbing or massage, keeping it warm but not hot, and immobilizing the area to minimize movement—helps prevent progression of injury until definitive care can be provided. The other options involve actions that could cause burns or tissue damage in the field (uncontrolled heat with chemical packs), require a controlled setting to rewarm safely (which isn’t usually feasible during transport), or aren’t directly beneficial unless there are breathing problems. So, shielding the frostbitten foot from further harm is the appropriate priority.