Factors affecting the risk for frostbite:
(1) The patient may be unable to sense the cold.
(2) The patient is unable to sense pain or discomfort following prolonged exposure.
(3) The patient may have concurrent vascular disease with ischemia (diabetes, Raynaud’s, peripheral arterial disease).
A patient with peripheral neuropathy should:
(1) be educated about the hazards of cold exposure
(2) wear appropriate hand and foot protection
(3) be educated about watching for special hazards (excessive moisture, etc)
(4) limit cold exposure as much as possible
(5) examine the hands and feet frequently for signs of injury
