Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a potential outcome of frostbite?

1. Temporary numbness

2. Severe pain without tissue damage

3. Tissue injury and possible amputation

4. Quick and complete recovery

The correct answer is: Tissue injury and possible amputation

The correct choice highlights that frostbite can lead to tissue injury and, in severe cases, necessitate amputation. Frostbite occurs when skin and other tissues freeze due to exposure to extremely cold temperatures, preventing blood from flowing adequately to those areas. This can result in irreversible damage to the affected tissues. When frostbite is severe, the affected areas can die due to prolonged lack of blood flow, leading to complications that may require surgical intervention, including amputation, to prevent further systemic issues. Recognizing the seriousness of frostbite is essential for effective treatment and intervention, making it crucial for healthcare professionals to understand this potential outcome. In comparison, temporary numbness can occur as an initial symptom of frostbite, but it typically does not indicate the extensive harm associated with severe frostbite. Similarly, severe pain without tissue damage is not a common outcome; frostbite typically results in diminished sensation rather than enhanced pain in the injured areas. Quick and complete recovery is unrealistic in cases of frostbite, especially if tissue injury has occurred, as recovery can be prolonged and complicated by the degree of hypothermia experienced.