In an emergency where you suspect a child has contracted frostbite, what is your immediate response?

The immediate response to a suspected case of frostbite in a child should prioritize both warmth and protection of the affected areas. Getting the child to a warmer place is crucial as it helps to restore the body's core temperature and prevent further damage to the tissues. Using dry gauze pads is important to cover the frostbitten areas to protect them from friction and further injury, while also allowing for gradual warming.

In instances of frostbite, rubbing the affected areas is not appropriate, as this can cause additional tissue damage due to the fragile state of the frostbitten skin. Covering the child with blankets is a supportive action, but it does not directly address the need to protect the frostbitten areas specifically. While keeping the child still and waiting for EMS is generally a safe approach for many emergencies, in the case of frostbite, it is essential to act promptly to mitigate further injury. Therefore, the correct response emphasizes both warmth and protective measures to ensure the best outcome for the child.