[Illustration: FIG. 4. EXPIRATION]
Pull steadily and firmly in that position while you count 1, 2, 3. This causes air to enter the lungs. Then quickly bring his arms down on his chest and press them firmly on his ribs (Figure 4) while you again count 1, 2, 3. This forces the air out of the lungs. Then quickly carry his arms over his head and down again, and repeat the same routine fast enough to make him breathe from twelve to sixteen times a minute. The tendency is to work too fast. If the work is done properly the air can be heard distinctly as it passes in and out of the air passages. Sometimes the tongue drops back in the throat, stopping it up so no air can enter. If you suspect this, have an assistant grasp the tongue with a handkerchief and keep it pulled forward.
[Illustration: FIG. 5. Expiration.]
Cuts used by courtesy of Health-Education League.
Don't Give Up
It will make it much easier if you have another person push on the ribs for you when you relax the arms, as shown in Figure 5. Have him place the hands as shown in the figure with the thumbs toward the medium line in front, the fingers farther away, the palms just below the breasts; this will make the boy's nipples come just midway between the ends of the thumbs and the middle joint of the forefinger. Press firmly downward and inward toward the backbone.
Continue these motions about fifteen times per minute. Keep this up until the boy begins to breathe, himself. When done properly, the work is hard for the operator, and he should be relieved by some one else as soon as he gets tired.
Warmth and Quiet
As soon as the boy begins to breathe himself—but not before—his limbs should be well rubbed toward the heart. This will help to restore the circulation. He should afterward be put to bed, well covered with warm blankets, hot stones being placed at his feet, and warm drinks administered. Fresh air and quiet will do the rest.
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