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 how the transfusion apparatus is fitted to the beds. On the top of the stand is seen (left) a bottle of saline and (right) a bottle of plasma. The tube from each meets at a Y shaped glass tube and each bottle tube has its own control clip. From the Y tube the tubing has a drip-window inset and further down a glass bead filter. There is also a gauze filter inserted at the bung of the plasma bottle. Note how Cramer splinting covered with bandage is used for supporting the patient’s arm. It is easily bent to shape and quickly inserted under the mattress.”
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 MED01/01/1275-1276 and MED01/01/1278-1279. 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
Emergency Ward, Hospital, People At Work, Women's History, Health And Welfare
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