296 DISINFECTANTS. 



should be instructed never to omit the use of disin- 

 fectants in contagious diseases. 



Many materials have been recommended for the 

 purpose of disinfecting the secretions, linen, &c., of 

 the sick, and although there will always be difficulty 

 in deciding which is really the most effective, it is 

 probable that all those in common use are efficient. 



The Chloride of Lime. Chlorinated lime or hypo- 

 chlorite of lime is well known, as it is in common 

 use. It is no doubt really efficient, but its smell is 

 very unpleasant, and to some persons excessively dis- 

 agreeable. 



Solution of Chloride of Zinc under the name of 

 Burnett's fluid is also in ordinary use. It is very valu- 

 able as a disinfectant and antiseptic, but it is highly 

 corrosive and very poisonous. 



Copperas, or Green Vitriol. In order to disinfect the 

 secretions before they leave the sick room, a solution 

 of common copperas or green vitriol may be used. 

 This is one of the cheapest and most valuable of dis- 

 infectants. From one to two pounds of copperas to 

 a gallon of water will make the disinfecting solution, 

 of which half a pint may be poured into the night 

 stool or bed pan. 



Calverfs Carbolic Powder is a very convenient disin- 

 fectant. It may be placed in saucers about the room, 

 or in little bags in the patient's bed, or with linen and 

 clothes. It may also be mixed with the excretions, 

 just as chloride of lime, copperas, and other substances. 



