46 BACTERIOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS. 



wrapped round the tip of the skewer, and (after the 

 swab has been taken) the latter is placed in the phial in 

 such a position that the cotton-wool does not touch the 

 glass ; the place between the skewer and the neck of 

 the bottle is plugged with cotton. wool. It is not abso- 

 lutely necessary to sterilise the swab, although it is a very 

 great advantage to do so if time permits. 



The method of taking the swab is of great importance, 

 and must be carried out in full detail. It is necessary 

 that the patient should not have had an antiseptic 

 gargle or application for at least two hours previously. 

 It is also advisable to allow him to drink some beef 

 tea or boiled water (not milk, for this may contain cer- 

 tain bacilli which closely resemble those of diphtheria) 

 immediately before the process. This will serve to 

 cleanse the parts. 



Requisites. i. A good light. 



2. The swab in its tube. 



3. A tongue depressor. The form which is hinged so 

 as to bend at a right angle is most convenient. 



4. A vessel containing antiseptic lotion or boiling 

 water. 



Method. i. Place the patient so as to face the light. 

 If a small child he should be held on his nurse's lap. 



2. Loosen the cork in the tube so that the swab may 

 be withdrawn with one hand and place it at a con- 

 venient spot on your right side. 



3. Get the patient to open his mouth, insert the 

 tongue depressor (held in the left hand) and get a clear 

 view of the area chiefly affected. Do not proceed with 

 the process (if it can be avoided) until you have done 

 this. 



4. Take the cork between the finger and thumb of 

 the right hand and pass the swab into the patient's 



