SOLUTIONS USES AND PREPARATION OF. 



Normal Salt Solution is a very valuable 

 antiseptic. As a douche and enema it is well 

 known. It is also used in intravenous, subcu- 

 taneous and rectal injections, for its stimulat- 

 ing' effects after hemorrhage in various dis- 

 eases; in shock during or after surgical opera- 

 tions; in toxemia from any cause. A pint of 

 the solution is frequently given by rectal in- 

 jection an hour or two before a surgical opera- 

 tion, as its use serves to lessen the possibility of 

 shock, and also assists in preventing the thirst ^jje Range of 

 from which patients so often suffer after surg- Usefulness, 

 ical operations. 0.6 per cent is the strength 

 used. The solution is made by dissolving one 

 dram of pure salt in each pint of hot water. 

 Sterilize in its container before using, except 

 where used as a rectal injection, when steriliza- 

 tion is not necessary. When used intravenously, 

 or subcutaneously, it must, of course, always 

 be sterilised* The intravenous injections are 

 never given by the nurse, as it is a method con- 

 fined to the physician alone. It is used during 

 operations very often, or immediately after 

 operations, when there has been much loss of 

 blood, or where the patient is suffering from 

 shock, in order to "furnish sufficient fluid to 



* Sterilize the syringe, canula, suture, thermometer for 

 testing the temperature of the solution (which should be 

 115° to 120° F.), scissors, and everything in the shape of 

 instruments by boiling in soda carbonate solution. For 

 the intravenous injections, thoroughly scrub and sterilize 

 the area to be used. 



133 



