Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam

Frostbite is primarily described as:

1. The formation of tissue swelling due to cold exposure

2. The freezing of tissues leading to injury or death

3. A superficial skin condition caused by cold

4. The sensation of coldness and pain in the extremities

The correct answer is: The freezing of tissues leading to injury or death

Frostbite is primarily characterized by the freezing of tissues, which can lead to cellular injury or even tissue death if exposure to extreme cold is prolonged or severe. When tissues freeze, ice crystals can form within the cells, disrupting their structure and function. This process can result in damage to the skin, muscles, and underlying tissues. The severity of frostbite is graded from superficial to deep, where superficial frostbite affects the outer layers of skin, while deep frostbite involves complete tissue loss, often necessitating surgical intervention. Understanding this process is crucial for recognizing the signs and symptoms of frostbite and providing appropriate treatment to prevent further injury.