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What is the recommended treatment for a patient with frostbite?

  1. Massage the affected area

  2. Re-warm with body heat

  3. Use radiant heat sources

  4. Immerse in hot water

The correct answer is: Re-warm with body heat

Re-warming with body heat is considered the best practice for treating frostbite. This method is both gentle and effective, allowing for the gradual elevation of the affected tissue temperature without risking further injury. By using the patient's own body heat, you minimize the chances of causing additional damage to the already compromised tissues. In contrast, methods like massaging the affected area could actually exacerbate the damage, as frozen tissues are fragile and need to be handled carefully. Similarly, using radiant heat sources can create uneven heating and is not typically recommended due to the risk of burns or further injury. Immersing the affected area in hot water can lead to overexposure and potentially cause severe burns, since the patient may not have the ability to feel heat properly in the frostbitten areas. In summary, re-warming with body heat is safe, gradual, and protective, making it the most recommended treatment for frostbite.