Frostbite in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Frostbite is freezing of the skin and the tissues below the skin. It occurs when a child is exposed to freezing temperatures for too long. It most often happens to exposed parts of the body, like the fingers, toes, ears, and nose. Frostbite is described by degree, from first to fourth degree. The degree is based on the level of injury.

Treatment includes relieving pain and quickly rewarming the frostbitten body parts. (Rewarming is done only if there is no risk of the body parts freezing again.) This can help prevent problems such as infection and dead tissue. It can also prevent amputation of the frozen part.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Give pain medicines exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • Do not give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• Protect skin that has been injured by frostbite.
  • Do not expose frostbitten skin to cold temperatures.
  • Use sunscreen and protective clothing. They can protect frostbitten skin from damage by the sun.
  • Do not rub or massage the injured area.
• Do not disturb blisters or other sores.
• Apply aloe vera to your child's skin as directed by your doctor.