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: “Resuscitation methods at Coventry Hospital. Picture shows a part of one of the resuscitation wards at the Coventry and Warwickshire Hospital. Each ward holds about eight beds, which are of the type which allows the head or foot being easily raised. Each bed is fitted with its own oxygen supply and is equipped with a B.L.B. mask and a pair of Tudor-Edwards oxygen spectacles. Each bed also has its own electric blanket, and its own stand for saline or blood transfusion work. The oxygen flowmeter can be seen clamped to the stand at the head of the bed. Note also the wooden carrier for holding charts and case papers.”
Resuscitation and ‘shock’ wards were established to treat patients in shock after air raids, surgery, or injury. Wards were kept warm but well-ventilated, and each bed would be constantly heated with hot water bottles or electric blankets in order to be ready for the admission of casualties. Radiant heat cradles and “shock cages” may have been placed over the bed to provide warmth, but it was important that warmth be applied “with care and moderation”. Raising the foot of the bed was used to treat low blood pressure, while patients with chest injuries may have breathed with more ease if propped up. The wards had to be well-equipped with dressing trolleys, basins, and equipment for blood transfusions. Developments in blood transfusion technique, particularly the use of plasma instead of whole blood, were essential to the contemporary treatment of shock. It was recommended that resuscitation wards be located near to a hospital's operating theatre, X-ray department, and surgical wards, or for necessary equipment and staff to be ready in the ward. The “competent nursing of shocked patients” was vital. See also MED01/01/1276-1279. 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, Emergency Ward, Health And Welfare
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