After rewarming frostbitten finger, what should you do next?

• A. Protect with sterile dressing
• B. Rub vigorously
• C. Leave exposed to air
• D. Continue warming with direct heat

Answer: (A)

After frostbitten tissue has been rewarmed, the priority is to protect the delicate tissue and prevent reinjury. The best next step is to cover the finger with a sterile, nonadherent dressing. This keeps the area protected from friction and contamination while preserving warmth, without applying pressure or heat. Rubbing vigorously would injure the softened tissue, leaving it exposed to air increases cooling and infection risk, and continuing warming with direct heat can burn or further damage the tissue. Keeping the finger protected also supports immobilization and reduces ongoing trauma while you seek further care if needed.