Caution: Prepare where there is no danger of the ether igniting.
STERILIZING HAND-BRUSHES.
1. Clean with green soap and water; rinse thoroughly.
2. Place in saturated oxalic solution for 30 minutes.
3. Place in sterile water 30 minutes.
4. Change water twice.
5. Keep dry.
TO PREPARE A PATIENT FOR
A SURGICAL OPERATION.
The preliminary preparations are of the greatest importance. The usual standing orders should be followed only when no directions have been given by the surgeon. When express directions for preparation are given by the surgeon, the usual standing orders must be disregarded. Caution in the use of cathartics can not be too strongly emphasized, for even a simple laxative at such a time may cost the patient’s life.
The usual standing orders are: For the previous day, liquid diet only. Give a cathartic, a bath, and a hair-wash during the afternoon, and flush the bowels thoroughly a few hours later. Surgical preparations should be completed before retiring time for the night.