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 Jeast 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.—1. 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.—1. 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be withdrawn with one hand and place it at a con- 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 
