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: “Birmingham General Hospital. Picture shows part of the resuscitation ward in the Birmingham General Hospital, where the usual details for the treatment of shock, etc. are in ample supply.”
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. 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 MED01/01/2198-2200. 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, Hospital Ward, Casualty Department, Health And Welfare, Second World War
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