OSHA 30 Hour Construction Program Practice Test

What happens when employees warm frostbite-affected areas too quickly?

1. They feel instant relief

2. It causes irreversible tissue damage

3. They can resume normal activities

4. There are no negative effects

The correct answer is: It causes irreversible tissue damage

When frostbite-affected areas are warmed too quickly, it can lead to irreversible tissue damage. This is because tissues that have been affected by frostbite are in a compromised state. Rapid warming can cause a sudden influx of blood to the area, which, coupled with the damage already caused by freezing, can result in further injury to the cells. The tissues that have already been deprived of oxygen due to cold exposure may respond poorly to the sudden reintroduction of blood flow, leading to a phenomenon known as "reperfusion injury." This is characterized by inflammation and tissue necrosis, where cells die due to the loss of their structural integrity. Therefore, a gradual warming process is essential for frostbite treatment to ensure that the damaged tissues can adapt to the change in temperature without being overwhelmed, thus minimizing the risk of further injury and preserving as much tissue function as possible.