The original caption may contain language which is historic and which may no longer be considered appropriate. It has been retained in the record in the interest of historical accuracy.
The caption on the reverse of the photograph reads: “Administration of oxygen. Picture shows the B.L.B. (Boothby-Lovelace-Bulbulian) oxygen mask. (Picture taken at Middlesex Hospital)”
A B.L.B. mask, described in 1938 by Boothby, Lovelace, and Bulbulian, allowed the administration of oxygen in concentrations ranging from that in air to pure oxygen using a mechanically simple and easy to operate device. The mask had a combined inspiratory and expiratory valve, and a bag for rebreathing. In addition, the mask was more comfortable and allowed patients to eat and speak whilst wearing it. It was worn by pilots on commercial American airlines, and is now used in the delivery of oxygen at high altitudes, having been replaced in medical uses by more effective masks which, for example, eliminated or reduced rebreathing. See also MED01/01/1231-1232 and MED01/01/1234. High-resolution copies of this image are available for free for non-commercial use. Please Enquire to place an order.
This is part of the Series: MED01/01 Series of prints; within the Collection: MED01 Topical Press Agency Medical Collection
Source: Historic England Archive
Photographer: Topical Press Agency Limited
Photographer: Harrison, Norman Kingsley
Hospital, Health And Welfare
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