10 LABORATORY METHODS OF UNITED STATES ARMY 



THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LABORATORY. 



The functions of the laboratory consist chiefly in helping 

 to safeguard the health of the troops by making rapid and 

 accurate diagnosis of infectious and other diseases, by which 

 the division surgeon and his staff may be guided in prophyl- 

 axis and treatment. 



The laboratory director should bear in mind that military 

 laboratories must combine the functions of Health Depart- 

 ment laboratories with those of diagnostic hospital labora- 

 tories. 



The directors of such laboratories are responsible directly 

 to the commanding officer of the camp base hospital, 

 through whom he will cooperate with the sanitary inspector 

 of the camp in any sanitary examinations in which the labora- 

 tory can facilitate control of camp conditions. 



The director of the laboratory is responsible not only for 

 the proper conduct of the laboratory and the accuracy of 

 the reports which are issued, but also for the preparation 

 of requisitions for the supplies which are used in the labora- 

 tory. 



Such requisitions are made up in accordance with the 

 Manual of the Medical Department, paragraph 477 to 490, and 

 he should note especially paragraph 485. 



GENERAL RULES FOR THE CONDUCT OF THE 

 LABORATORY. 



1. Wear apron or other protective covering over uniform 

 when in the laboratory. This avoids carrying infectious 

 material to mess. 



2. Keep your desk and floor area clean. 



3. Wash and disinfect your hands before leaving the 

 laboratory. 



