Part 83 (2/2)

As it sometimes happens that it is necessary to apply a bandage at once, and the materials are not at hand it is desirable to know how to subst.i.tute something else _that any one may apply with ease_. This can be readily done with handkerchiefs.

[THEY GROW TO FLOWERS, OR TO WEEDS.]

827. Handkerchiefs.

Any ordinary handkerchief will do; but a square of linen folded into various shapes answers better. The shapes generally required are as follows:--The triangle, the long square, the cravat, and the cord.

828. The Triangular Handkerchief

The triangular handkerchief is made by folding it from corner to corner. Use, as a bandage for the head.

_Application_.--Place the base round the head, and the short part hanging down behind, then tie the long ends over it.

829. The Long Square

The long square is made by folding the handkerchief in three. Use, as a bandage to the ribs, belly, &c. If one handkerchief is not long enough, sew two together.

830. The Cravat

The cravat is folded as usual with cravats. Use, as a bandage for the head, arms, legs, feet, neck, &c.

831. The Cord

The cord is used to compress vessels, when a knot is made in it, and placed over the vessel to be compressed. It is merely a handkerchief twisted in its diagonal.

832. Multiple Handkerchiefs.

Two or more handkerchiefs must sometimes be applied, as in a broken collar-bone, or when it is necessary to keep dressings under the arm.

The bandage is applied by knotting the opposite comers of one handkerchief together, and pa.s.sing the left arm through it, then pa.s.sing another handkerchief under the right arm, and tying it. By this means we can brace the shoulders well back, and the handkerchief will press firmly over the broken collar-bone: besides, this form of bandage does not readily slip or get slack, but it requires to be combined with the sling, in order to keep the arm steady.

833. For an Inflamed Breast

For an inflamed breast that requires support, or dressings to be kept to it, pa.s.s one corner over the shoulder, bring the body of it over the breast, and pa.s.s it upwards and backwards under the arm of that side, and tie the opposite corners together.

834. An Excellent Sling

An excellent sling is formed by placing one handkerchief around the neck, and knotting opposite corners ever the breast bone, then placing the other in triangle under the arm, to be supported with the base near to the hand; tie the ends over the handkerchief, and pin the top to the other part, after pa.s.sing it around the elbow.

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