What is the second stage of frost bite?

• A. Red or flushed skin, white or grey skin
• B. Firm white skin, blisters, purple tint
• C. Blisters and blue skin
• D. Numbness

Answer: (B)

Stage two frostbite is superficial tissue injury where the skin becomes firm and white as ice crystals form in the outer layers, and blisters develop after thawing. The purple or reddish tint that can accompany this stage reflects damage to the small blood vessels beneath the skin. This combination of a firm, pale skin surface with blistering distinguishes it from the milder frostnip, which is mainly numbness with red or flushed skin and no blisters, and from deeper frostbite, which tends to show blue or very pale skin with more extensive tissue damage and often hard, unaffected tissue. If you see this stage, gentle rewarming in warm (not hot) water and protection of the blisters are important, along with seeking medical care if large blisters or signs of infection occur.