American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the American Board of Family Medicine Exam. Access flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Enhance your readiness for the test!

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In managing a patient with frostbite, which method should be avoided?

Keeping the affected area warm
Rubbing affected tissues
Using warm blankets
Leaving non-tense blisters intact

The correct answer is: Rubbing affected tissues

In managing a patient with frostbite, rubbing the affected tissues should be avoided because it can cause further damage to already compromised skin and underlying tissues. Frostbite results in cellular injury due to freezing, and the risk of additional trauma increases with manipulation. Rubbing can disrupt the fragile tissues and increase the risk of infection, necrosis, and other complications. In contrast, keeping the affected area warm is vital for initiating the rewarming process, which helps restore blood flow and cellular metabolism. Using warm blankets can be part of this warming strategy, providing a controlled environment that promotes healing. Leaving non-tense blisters intact is also a key management principle, as intact blisters can provide a protective barrier against infection and assist in healing by maintaining moisture around the damaged skin.