xxi FIRST AID IN ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCIES 321 



ground mustard into a tumbler of warm water, and give 

 this amount every ten minutes until vomiting is pro- 

 duced. Run the forefinger down the throat to hasten 

 the act. A strong solution of alum or common salt may 

 be used if mustard is not at hand. Wash the stomach 

 thoroughly by forcing the person to drink freely warm 

 water and then to throw it up ; repeat this several times. 

 When the physician arrives he will know what to do to 

 neutralize the poison that may remain in the system, 

 and to remedy the injury that may have been done. 



233. Sprains. Sprains are caused by a sudden 

 stretching of the ligaments at a joint. No bone is in- 

 jured at all. Soak some cloths in cold water and tie 

 these on firmly, so that the injured part may be kept 

 cool and have perfect rest. Apply cold water from 

 time to time and keep the bandage on for several days 

 if the sprain is severe. 



234. Dislocations. A bone may be out of its proper 

 position at a joint, but still not injured in any way. 

 There is generally a deformity noticeable and a stiffness 

 or fixity so that the bone cannot be moved. Dislocations 

 are usually very painful, but not dangerous. The per- 

 son should be taken to a surgeon at once. Cold water 

 may be applied to relieve pain and keep down the 

 swelling until the surgeon takes charge of the case. It 

 is a good thing to keep the limb elevated and to rub it 

 freely, so as to aid the circulation of the blood and the 

 lymph. 



235. Broken Bones. When a bone is broken it 

 must be set properly by a skillful surgeon so that the 



