CHAPTER XXI 



FIRST AID IN ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCIES 



221. Introduction. When we are very sick or seri- 

 ously injured, we want to be treated by a skilled physician 

 because his careful study and long experience have given 

 him a deep insight into all matters pertaining to the wel- 

 fare of our bodies. There are, however, many slight 

 indispositions and injuries whose treatment is so simple 

 that there is no need of calling a physician. In severe 

 illness and injuries it is usually very important for the 

 saving of life, or at least for the relief of suffering, to do 

 something at once, and not to wait until the physician 

 arrives. Be certain, however, that you know what to do 

 and how to set about it before you offer your services. 



In this chapter we shall learn some very simple 

 modes of treating a few of the more common illnesses 

 and injuries that do not require the physician, or that 

 demand attention in case no physician can be called 

 immediately. These brief suggestions should be re- 

 membered by all. 



222. Burns and Scalds. If the burn is not severe, 

 apply cold water at first. A tablespoonful of baking 

 soda to a tumbler of water makes an excellent solution 

 for burns of all kinds. Equal parts of linseed oil and 



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