38 HANDBOOK FOR CAMPERS. 



once and send for a physician. Directions for preliminary treat- 

 ment of some of the commoner accidents are given below: 



Wounds.— To stop bleeding, apply pressure directly over the 

 wound, either by the fingers or by means of a compress. The 

 latter is preferable. 



If the bleeding can not be controlled by this method, apply 

 pressure to the blood vessel which supplies the bleeding part, 

 the pressure being applied always between the wound and the 

 heart. 



To make a tourniquet, tie a strong bandage, handkerchief, 

 necktie, etc., about the wounded part. Place a smooth pebble 

 or similar hard substance directly over the blood vessel. Insert 

 a stick within the bandage and twist it tight. 



Burns. — Exclude air and keep parts absolutely clean. Treat 

 with vaseline or olive oil. Lacking these, use a solution of 

 baking soda. 



Where large blisters are formed, remove the fluid before 

 dressing. Prick near the edge with a needle that has been 

 passed several times through a flame and gently press out the 

 water. 



Where the clothing sticks to the flesh, do not remove it 

 forcibly. Cut it away as close to the burn as possible and 

 soften with oil before removing it. 



Fractures. — Send for a surgeon. It is not necessary that a 

 broken bone should be set immediately. If it is impossible to 

 obtain a surgeon at once, or if it is necessary to move the in- 

 jured person, the parts should be bandaged with splints to keep 

 them from moving. For splints use thin pieces of board a little 

 longer than the bone and as wide as the injured part. They 

 should be thoroughly padded with cotton, cloth, or moss. 



Sprains. — The part should have absolute rest. Apply water 

 as hot as can be borne. After the first day or two apply splints 

 and bandages if necessary. 



Sunstroke. — The skin is dry and hot, the breathing quick, 

 and the heart action violent. Place patient on his back, with 

 head slightly raised, in a cool, shady spot. Loosen clothing. 



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