A reference hand-book for nursesBeck, Amanda K. (Amanda Kathryn)
Science
A reference hand-book for nurses
Beck, Amanda K. (Amanda Kathryn)
Nursing
If the _upper_ arm be fractured, bind it tightly to the side. For the
_thigh_, the splints should extend from under the arm to the ankle
and should be bound to the body and leg with long towels or sheets
torn into strips. A splint made of blankets, rolled up tightly from
both sides on broomsticks, allowing space for the limb to rest between
the supports, is a good and ready appliance. Always make extension to
prevent contractions of the muscles, as this would result in shortening
the leg.
For a broken _clavicle_ (collar-bone) bind the arm to the chest. Put
the patient on the flat of his back with a small pad between the
shoulder-blades. This will keep the broken ends in a normal position.
N. B.—In every case elevate and support the injured member on a pillow,
keep in position and give complete rest until medical aid arrives.
DISLOCATIONS.
Dislocation is a displacement of the joint. It may occur with a break
of the limb, but usually results from a fall or strain.
There may be deformity and inability to move the injured part.
Sometimes an abnormal projection is the first sign. If inflammation
arises, apply cold applications. The only treatment a nurse may give is
to keep the patient quiet and await skilled help.
SPRAINS.
There may be extreme pain, swelling, inflammation, discoloration, and
inability to use the joint. Support and elevation of the limb is of
the greatest importance. Use hot or cold applications to allay the
inflammation and pain. Cover with a thin soft pad, and bandage evenly
and firmly. A sprain should not be neglected, as it may cause future
disease of the injured part.
For recent bruises cold applications are best. Give the patient
complete rest, support and elevate the injured limb, apply cold or hot
applications, and await skilled help.
BURNS AND SCALDS.
In severe cases the constitutional treatment is of more importance than
the application of local remedies. If the patient is in shock wrap
him in warm blankets, and give him stimulants. In superficial cases
where the skin is not broken powder with bicarbonate of soda (baking
soda). A ready domestic application is sweet oil. _Exclude the air at
all times._ When vesicles have been produced they should be punctured
with a sharp instrument, and the serum gently evacuated with absorbent
cotton. Apply soothing ointments or wet dressings. IN CASE OF SEVERE
BURNS OF THE BODY immerse the patient in a warm bath, keeping it at
even temperature. Separating a layer of common white cotton wadding,
and wrapping it about the injured part will allay the pain, and the
cotton has the advantage of not adhering to the raw surface. Splints
and bandages should be employed to prevent contractions.
BURNS OF THE EYE.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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