a nd w at erp roo f. NEW WATERPROOF KNEE BOOTS, r u bb er sol es , 2/ 6, post 1/GOVERNMENT SURPLUS GAUNTLETS 5 pairs 2/ 6, or 48 /- pe r gross. Carr. fr e e Mar q uees, a ll so r ts. Camping Eq ui pme nt in stoc k. Se nd Id (or list. HEADQUARTERS AND GENERAL SUPPLIES, LTD ., S J.A 196-100 Coldharbour Lane, Loughborough Junc. , London S E. 5.
SKIN CLEAR AND HEALTHY
II After years of trouble"
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Antiseptic Oilttment has made my skin absolutely clear of pimples and rough skin, dry skin, etc , which I have had si11-Ce I u:as ia school and I am now twenty- one. I simply had to show m y appreciation
Miss B. W., Newpor t
DOUBLE-POWERANTISEPTIC
A great stride has been made in the scientific healing of skin troubl es. British scientists have perfected a completely different kind of skin balm caJled Valu erma. Alld the secret of Valderma's amazing antiseptic action is a new ingredient never before used in a skin ointment. This new wonder antiseptic, Polycidin (contained only in scientifically kills off the germs that cause most skill troubles. Itch ing and soreness disa ppear. That's because Valderma's oil-in-water em u lsion base enables poisons to fi lter away. Va lderma is white, non-greasy and invisible on the skin. Nonstaining and agreeable to use, it can be applied anywhere, any time. At Chemists, 2/21, doub le size 3/ 10. The larger jar saves you money. Try VALDERMA to.day for you r skin trouble
A NEW MOBILE DENTAL CLINIC
This dental unit recently completed for the BRITISH RED CROSS SOCIETY illustrates the wide technical experience gained in more than 40 years of ambulance and medical unit design.
We welcome enquiries for ambulances and mobile medical units for delivery in all parts of the world.
When your digestio n is out of order, practis e wh at is known as Rest-Therapy -rest your digestion for a while and tak e a eourse of Benger's Food at night. Bengers is r ich ment, pre-digested I t 800n soothes and strengthens the dlgestt on b ack to n ormal.
SUPPLY THE REGULATION UNIFORM
We have specialised in the making of women's Uniforms for 100 years and have a reputation for good quality materials and superb workmanship.
You can order your St. John Ambulance Uniform with confidence, knowing that every detail will be in accordance with regulations.
We shall be pleased to send full details upon request
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EDGWARE ROAD, LONDON, W.2
FIRST CHOICE
IN FIRST AID
, Iodex' is the ideal fonn of iodine for cuts, bruises, painful muscles, sprains, and swollen joints.
It is thoroughly bland-even on open woundsand its soothing, healing, antiseptic qualities have for long rendered valuable service in first aid.
Since' Iodex ' dressings do not adhere to broken surfaces, they can be renewed without causing fresh bleeding and with minimum discomfort.
Itbt G9ffu:ial A :lJoumalof tbe C10ranb Jriltrj! in 'V lbe 1l!rilisb ltealm of tTenerahle @rber Df tlJe of J}olJn of Jerusalem
Edited by GEORGB B. CRAFT, O St.,., F.R.S.A. VOL. 21. No. 10.
EDITORIAL
DEPUTY CHIEF COMMISSIONER
We welcome to our ranks Lieut.-General Sir Otto Marling Lund, K.C.B., D.S .O., who has been appointed acting Deputy Chief Commissioner of the Brigade At-Home. Sir Otto has had a successful military career, being first commissioner in the Royal Artillery in 191I. During the 1914 - 18 war he was awarded the D.S.O. and mentioned in dispatches four times. He became A.D.C. to General LorGl Rawlinson when C.-in-C. in Russia, Aldershot Command, and India, 1919-19 22 ; and later was at the Staff College, Camberley. September, 1939, saw him Deputy Director of Operations, War Office, Major-General Royal Artillery, Home Forces; and 21st Army Group till February, 1944. From 1944-6 he was Director Royal Artillery, War Office, and from 1946- 8, G.O.C.-in-C. Anti-Aircraft Command.
His first official duty was to preside at the Cadet Officers Conference which was held at Buxton, and his charming manner and understanding immediately gained the confidence of the officers present.
VOLUNTARY
DUTIES
As has been pointed out in this Journal on many occasions, there is still room for voluntary organizations such as the St. John Ambulance Brigade.
At the opening of the Amersham Ambulance Station, Countess Mountbatten of Burma stated that not only was the Brigade still needed under the new Health Act, but that she had personally been informed by the Minister of Health that the fullest co-operation was both needed and welcomed from such organizations in the carrying out of this new State undertaking.
This statement has been borne out in the many local authorities which have asked the Brigade to run its ambulance service and to assist in many other ways.
DEATH OF SIR JOHN DUNCAN
By the passing of Sir John Duncan, The Order and the Brigade have lost a good friend. For nearly thirteen years he was the Chief Commissioner of the Brigade At-Home, being appointed in 193I. Through his efforts the Brigade increased from strength to strength, and when he resigned in 1943, the total was over 178,000.
He endeared himself to everyone, and his outstanding personality, breadth of vision, and high ideals bore fruit in the rapid increase in the Brigade, not only in personnel, but in efficiency and status.
Even when he had left Brigade Headquarters he continued to take an interest in the Brigade, being appointed County President for Berkshire. He was a member of Chapter-General and a Bailiff Grand Cross of the Order.
293
ijtlJt <lranb Jrinrll in tlJt 1SritizlJ of @rbtr of tlJt 1inzpital of , JJobn of Jtruzaltm
His Majesty The King has been graciously pleased to sanction the following Promotions in, and Appointments to, The Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem.
FOR ADMISSION IN THE GRADE OF KNIGHT
The Viscount C.M.G.
The Earl Peel. Hampden, G.C.V.O., K.C.B.,
FOR ADMISSION IN THE GRADE OF ASSOCIATE KNIGHT
The Rt. Hon. Sir Lionel Leonard Cohen, P.C.
FOR PROMOTION TO THE GRADE OF COMMANDER (BROTHER)
Sir Robert Abraham Burrows.
Brigadier-General Sir Godfrey Dean Rhodes, C.B., C.B.E., D.S.O. (from Officer).
FOR ADMISSION IN THE GRADE OF SERVING BROTHER Tsau Un Kyi.
MALTA
FOR ADMISSION IN THE GRADE OF OFFICER (SISTER) Ragnhild, Lady Campbell.
ST. JOHN COUNCILS IN THE COUNTIES
HAMPSHIRE At the quarterly meeting of the Council, Sir Maurice Hallett presided, and welcomed Mr. W. Coates (Director of Education, Hampshire County Council) as a new member.
It was resolved that the Council's sincere and grateful appreciation o£ the services of Brigadier F. B. Hurndall as first chairman of the St. John Council for Hampshire to be placed on record. Brigadier Hurndall recently resigned on leaving the country to take up residence in Kenya.
Mr. O. Horne (Assistant Secretary of the St. John Ambulance Association), attended the meeting and gave a talk to the members on the work of the Association.
It was recommended that a County Association Committee be formed consisting of representatives of Centres of the Association and other persons interested in the work of the Association under the chairmanship of a member of the St. John Council.
LEICESTERSHIRE At the meeting of the Council, over which Ir. H. Bream presided, County Commissioner G. F. Browne reported on the Ambulance Service which would be operated by the Brigade on behalf of the Local Authorities.
It was reported that inquiries were still being received from industry as a result of a letter which had been sent. It was expected that two new Divisions of the Brigade would be formed in Leicester, being attached to Works, and many new members would join existing Divisions.
295
THE BRIGADE FINALS
STOCKSBRIDGE AMBULANCE AND HORSHAM NURSING 1948 CHAMPIONS
For the first time since the commence- after welcoming the Lord Mayor and Lady m(mt of the "Dewar Shield" competi- Mayoress (the first occasion a Lord Mayor tions, inaugurated in 1897, a team from of London had honoured the competitions the 'Vest Riding of Yorkshire was with his presence), he announced the successful; whilst in the "Perrott results. Great was the applause when the Shield" competition Horsham repeated winners were named, and it is no secret their success of 1939. The Horsham team that the winning ambulance team created win was no " snatch" victory as they also a surprise. However, that is all to the gained three other trophies-the" Chal- good of the movement, and we would add mers" (for practical work), the "Lady our cordial congratulations to StocksM0ntgarrett" (bedmaking), and the bridge and Horsham teams on their well " Ellis" (best captain). It would appear earned successes. that the Nursing team is determined to The Chief Commissioner, referring to the keep the name of Horsham to the fore- drop in membership of the Brigade which, front in competitions. however, was not as bad as after the 1914-
Throughout Friday, September 10, the 18 war, felt that the curve was now Central Hall, London, was well crowded beginning to rise again. Many more first by visitors from all parts of the country aid certificates were being issued and it to witness the work of the finalists, and the was up to all members of the Brigade to follo wers of each team were able to see try and persuade the recipients to join the their teams in action. Perhaps accom- Brigade. In spite of the decrease in adult modation was a little cramped, but that figures, the Cadet movement had increased was unavoidable. At this, the second post- by 1,000, a remarkable figure. war competition final, enthusiasm was An innovation this year was" Judges' even greater than in pre-war days, and it remarks", and County Surgeon J. R. was pleasing to meet members and friends Hamerton (Kent), Assistant Commisfrom the Provinces, to have talks on work sioner Dr. E. Abraham (London), and appertaining to the Order and Brigade, Miss G. Taylor (ex-Matron-in-Chief, and to renew old acquaintances. P.M.R.A.F.N.S.), who judged the Ambu-
At 2.30 p.m. the Right Hon. The Lord lance team test, the Nursing team test, Mayor of London, accompanied by the first aid, and Home Nursing section Lady Mayoress, arrived at the Central respectively, gave their comments on the Hall, being welcomed by Lieut.-General work done by the competitors. Miss Sir Henry Pownall (Chief Commissioner) Taylor especially congratulated the teams and the Countess Mountbatten of Burma on their very high standard. (Superintendent-in-Chief ursing Corps Following the presentation of trophies and Divisions). A guard of honour and individual prizes by the Lord Mayor, was composed of members of No. 1 the Countess Mountbatten of Burma rose (Prince of Wales's) District, and certain to propose a vote of thanks to His senior officers of the Brigade and the Order Lordship. Lady Mountbatten expressed were presented to his Lordship who, her pleasure at being present at the finals together with the Lady l\Iayoress and -the first time she had been able to Senior Brigade Officers, witnessed teams attend. It was a great honour to have the at work. Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress with them
The organization involved in these on St. John 's greatest day. The Lord competitions means many weeks of Mayor was a Knight of the Order, and preparation, and no greater tribute can be the Lady Mayoress was the holder of a given to those who work so hard in making first aid certificate. After congratulating th€ arrangements, than to say the time- the winners and all teams on their high table was kept from beginning to end standard of efficiency, Lady Mountbatten
The stage settings for all the tests were referred to the great assistance given by again generously provided by Mrs. John the medical and nursing professions, to :'Iaxwell and the Associated British which the Brigade owed much. She also Picture Corporation, and thanks are due referred to the part played by St. John to to them and to l\Ir. Joe Grossman, of the suffering humanity in India, and to the Elstree Studios, who personally supervised work she had seen carried out by Brigade the making and the erection of the set personnel at the Toronto Exhibition. pieces.
The Lord Mayor expressed his pleasure PRIZE PRESENTATION at being present and to present the prizes. He was proud to be associated with the This took place in the Great Hall, which Order of St. John and considered it his was packed with members and visitors. duty to foster recruitment in all forms of The Chief Commissioner presided and, voluntary service to the State. Having
been connected with Sussex for many years he was pleased that the Horsham team had done so well. He congratulated all teams on their work.
The Chief Commission er voiced his thanks to all who had helped in any way to make the competitions such a success.
THE TESTS
Ambulance
The teams found a scenic representation of a block of flats in the process of erection. They saw a bricklayer climbing a ladder to a platform to join his assistant who was wheeling a barrow load of bricks which suddenly overturned. The bricklayer fell down the ladder and rolled over on the g round suffering from hysteria and a fractured forearm. The assistant, falling on his back, sustained concussion, a wound on the back of his hand, and a fractured patella. The scenery included a foreman's office in which was equipment, a public telephone kiosk, and, at the
appropriate time, a scenic representation of a St. John ambulance. It was all story of 15 minutes of emergency, and It was extremely interesting to watch the methods of the various teams, while a word must be said for the" stooges" who gave such realistic tumbles and sustained such repeated first aid ministrations.
The test for the Leader was to deal with a gas fitter who, while lying on in the process of fixing a new radlator m the leader's home, pulled the radiator down on top of him and sustained a wound on the forehead and sprained ·wrist He was also found to be suffering from a gastric ulcer.
Bearers os. 2 and 3 acted respectively as bus driver and conductor (there was quite a nicely faked "J onsgate" bus). Suddenly, they heard a shout and !ound that an elderly man, while attemptmg to board the bus in motion, had been thrown down in the road. He was found to be suffering from a fractured hip and clavicle.
The Horsham N ursing Team receiving the Mountgarret Cup from the Lord Mayor of London.
The Stocksbridge Team after presentation of the Dewar Shield and Hingston Rose Bowl.
Bearer No.4 was working at his office desk when the door of the room opened and a caller inconsiderately fell on his face. On examination the bearer diagnosed a fractured jaw and a fractured right rib.
NuYsing
The setting for the Nursing team test was a cottage, showing a sitting-room and a bedroom. Mother was standing on a stool and in th e process of banging a mirror. Her small son kept asking to be allowed to go to the fair, and rattl ed his money box, saying, " I want some money for the fair." His mother had refused to give him money and, in reproving him, turned sharply, overbalanced and fell on the floor with the mirror, sustaining fractures of the ribs and humerus and an incised wound on the palm of the hand. It bappened that four of her Brigade friends were passing on their way to Divisional Headquarters and, as the cottage door was open, tbey saw the accident. 'With a mirror falling down eleven times, " mother" undoubtedly had a very unlucky day, but was fortunate in her first aid attention, ce rtainl y from the Horsham team.
T. \V. Lench (Worcs.) Shoreditch \V. Butler and Co. (Bristol) Exchange (Liverpool)
\ iVhile Sister No. 1 was opening up Divisional Headquarters she heard a crash. On looking out of the window she saw a boy lying in the roadway underneath his bicycle and there was a lady endeavouring to raise him. The boy was found to b e suffering from dislocated elbow and wound of right leg.
Sisters Nos. 2 and 3 were told that while getting out of bed an elderly patient had sustained a simple fracture of the right leg which the Divisional Surgeon had controlled with splints and bandages. Later on she would be given an ancesthetic and ha ve her leg set in plaster. They were asked to prepare a single bed on which the patient would be placed after the operation, and to prepare tables for the surgeon and doctor.
Sister o. 4 called to see why a nursing cadet was not present at Divisional practice and learned that the Cadet had been in bed for three days. The mother asked the Sister to look at the patient, who may have been developing measles. Competitors had to diagnose the condition, take essential precautions, and prepare facilities for doctor and nurs e.
TROPHIES
PERROTT SHIELD (Championship)
CORBET FLETCHER TROPHY (Runners-up)
CHALMERS TROPHY (Highest Marks in Practical Section)
MOUNTGARRET CUP (Highest Marks in Bedmaking Test)
ELLIS CUP (Best Captain)
MAR GUERETTE GOLDING TROPHY (Best No.4 in Individual Tests) . MIDDLESBROUGH CENTRAL "ST.JOHNHOUSE"
A long standing ambition of the Brigade there is a generous s upply of bathroom has been achieved at last. The Training accommodation.
Centre which has been wished for so long It is hoped that St. John H o us e will is about to take s hape. It is unnec essary be a centre where members can not only to emphasize the need of a centre where attend training courses, but where they members of the Brigade from all parts can can at the same time stay conveniently, foregather, learn to know each other, and comfortably, and cheaply. There should compare and discuss their respective be admirable facilities for holding courses activities. for all branches of the Brigade, and the When the idea of the Training Centre pleasant surrounding should add conwas first conceived it was almost auto- siderably to the attraction. matically consid ered that it should b e Overseas members will be particularly located outside London and be exclusively welcome, and every assistance will be for Training. But from observation of given to enable them to enjoy their stay similar establishments run by other in London.
organizations it was fairly evident that F or country members the club should this was not entirely satisfactory econo- be of special value both from the point of mically. A certain wastage of accommoda- view of accommodation and also as a tion and personnel was bound to occur source of information regarding the between courses. It was accordingly activities of the Brigade. decided to try and achieve the best of The Club should also be able to supply both worlds by combining the Training general information about London Centre with a residential club. including theatres, transport, and places
The premises which have been acquired, of interest.
namely 15- 16 Collingham Gardens, are From a social aspect the club should particularly suited to this purpose. give plenty of opportunities for wider Situated in Earl's Court, a pleasant individual acquaintance between members residential quarter of London, "St. of the Brigade, which should lead to a J ohn Hou se" as it will be called can greater unity than has been hitherto provide s l eeping accommodation for achieved.
approximately 50 people. It has a fine Training is the fundamental function of dining-room, a pleasant bar, as well as St. John House and other considerations a large room suitable for a lecture hall. must obviously be regarded as secondary. All the bedrooms are well appointed and Thus priority will always be given to 299
members attending courses, and also to members on duty, or on any business connected with the Brigade.
Of necessity there will be an element of experiment in the early stages of the club's existence, and an adequate margin must be left for possible changes in programmes and plans. But of these club members will be given due warning, and every effort 'will be made, once the programmes are completed, to make as little alteration as possible.
The exact conditions of membership will be given in the next issue of the Ga zette
It is hoped that St. John House will be ready for use in time for the Cadet Finals. All inquiries should be addressed to The Warden, Miss Monica Crosbie (who was awarded the M.B.E. for her excellent work in Civilian Relief in Vienna), at St. John House, 15-16 Collingham Gardens, Earls Court, London, S .W.S.
No. I (PRINCE OF WALES'S) DISTRICT
Two examples of co-operation which exists between the Brigade At Home and the Brigade Overseas are contained in reports received from ew Zealand and South Africa.
the transportation to Johannesburg. The boy's father, in a letter to the Secretary, Brigade Overseas, gave particulars of the journey and concluded with "I cannot speak too highly of the enthusiasm and generosity in the offer of assistance of all the St. John members I met, and the very practical way in which they catered for my son's transport and general well-being." MALTA.
The Brigade in Malta is very gratified at the compliment which has been paid it by the acceptance of the appointment of Patroness by the Countess Mountbatten of Burma, and the acceptance of the appointment of President by the Prime Minister of Malta, Dr. P. Boffa. It is reported from Malta that the fifth Medical Comforts Depot will shortly be opened at Qormi, where it is hoped it will be of value to a population of over 14,000.
The Commissioner of Malta, Lt.-Col. J V. Abela has written to express sincere thanks to those readers of The Gazette at home who kindly forwarded back copies a complete his files.
In the first case a patient from the Chesterton Hospital, Cambridge, who had been suffering from paralysis, caused by a tumour on the brain, for two years; and arrangements were made by the Brigade in Cambridge to remove her to Southampton where she was transfered to the s.s. Straithaid bound for Sydney, Australia. Arrangements were made with the Brigade in Sydney to meet the patient and for her further transportation to New Zealand. Unfortunately the patient sustained a fractured femur a few days before her journey commenced, and some of the arrangements had to be modified. On arrival in Australia the patient was conveyed direct from the ship to the airport for her flight to New Zealand and taken to Wakefield Hospital. The same day she was taken from the hospital for an X-ray examination, and returned to the hospital for a brief stay. Later she was taken by air ambulance to Wellington, PAKISTAN. during which journey she was accom- At a party given by His Excellency Sir panied by a St. John nurse. On arrival Gulam Hussein Hidaytullah at Governat Wellington she was conveyed to her ment House to workers and organizers of destination. 'While at her daughter's Nations Appeal for Children, and home in Wellington the patient was officIals ofthe St. John Ambulance Brigade attended daily by a St. John District Overseas, and Sind Provincial Branch of urse until her removal to hospital for the Pakistan Red Cross Society, His further treatment. The Priory Head- Excellency presented Mrs. G. T. Neal, quarters in New Zealand report that all Lady District Superintendent, Brigade plans worked smoothly and all St. John Overseas and Superintendent of Nursing departments co-operated excellently. The Services, Sind, with the Florence Nightinpatient's daughter in a letter has expressed gale Medal. the gratitude of the patient for the utmost SOUTH AFRICA. kindness and efficiency she received at A request has been received from South every stage of her journey. Africa that members of the Brigade At The second case concerned a boy (a Home to that country should stretcher case of T B. pine in plaster forward theIr names and qualifications to cast) from Hayling Island, Hampshire, to the Brigade Overseas Secretary, St. Johannesburg in South Africa. Brigade John's Gate, London, so that he can At Home conveyed the patient to communicate with the South Africa Southampton and took him aboard the H d T R.M.S. Athlone Castle. On arrival at ea quarters. hey can then be put into contact with Officers and members of the Cape Town the Brigade Overseas arranged Brigade Overseas on their arrival.
300
Western Area.-The annual social was held at Hammersmith Town Hall on September 21, when some 400 members and friends were present. The guests included Lady Dunbar-Nasmith (Deputy Superintendent-in-Chief), District Supt. Miss Workman, Asst. Commissioners Dr. R. Steele and G. P. Hart, District Staff Officer Burton, and they were welcomed by Assistant Commissioner Dr. G. R. H. \tVrangham and Mrs. Wrangham. Members of the Area Staff, including County Surgeons Selby and Stewart, District Officers Stratton, Hipkins, Shrosbree, Miss West and Miss Shelley were also present. A very enjoyable time was had by those present, who were very appreciative of the short cabaret interlude.
Wimbledon and Merton Division.-In 1937 a member of the Brighton Division was transferred to Wimbledon; and this member conceived the idea of a first aid competition between the two Divisions. On September 12 of this year the idea bore fruit. Three tests were arranged, one team and two pairs; and the judges were District Officers F. E. Stratton and C. \tV. Hipkins. Members ofthe Casualty Union staged realistic accidents. In each test the home team gained first place ; and President H. H. Hoskins presented trophies to the winners. These were a silver cup donated by the President and Vice-Presidents of Wimbledon for the team test, and a similar cup, donated by the Brighton Division, for the best pair. The competition was watched by Councillor C. W. Black and Mr. E. T. \tV. Cobbett (Vice-Presidents, Wimbledon), Mr. E. Salvage (Vice-President, Brighton), Mrs. Cobbett (Chairman, Merton and Morden U.D.C.), County Surgeon H. C. Stewart and Miss Leane.
Wandsworth and Southfields Division.-
A large crowd witnessed the ceremony of the opening and dedication of a first aid hut at Tibbet's Corner, Wimbledon
Common on September 18 A guard of honour, augmented by members of the 88 Nursing Division, was inspected by District Commissioner Major A. C. White Knox who gave an account of the work performed by the Brigade in the London District. The Rev. Kenneth Howell (vicar of Wandsworth) conducted the dedication ceremony, after which Supt. Brown handed the key to the Mayor (Ald . Mrs. E. K Goodrich) who performed the opening ceremony. The Mayor expressed her great pleasure at being invited to be present and warmly congratulated the Division on its wonderful
achievement in overcoming all the difiiculties which attended any sort of building in these days, and in erecting a hut which was to be put to such a noble purpose. Vice-President W. L. Clarke thanked the Mayor for opening the hut and also for the support and encouragement she always gives the Division. Mr. Clarke stated that the building of the hut has been done entirely by voluntary labour, and he acknowledged the assistance given by Col. Lambert, the Chief Ranger, and representatives of the Conservators of Wimbledon.
Bromley.-A combined recruiting week was held by the Bromley Divisions from September 6 to 11. The results may be judged by the fact that over 20 applications have been received for membership in the Brigade. The events of the week included three public demonstrations, the showing of slides at local cinemas, write-up in the local press, the distribution of 4,000 bookmarkers and 1,500 handbills. The finale was a Grand Dance. At the last demonstration the Ambulance Division received its Jubilee Certificate, for 50 years' service, from the hands of District Officer Hallock, whilst Miss Scorer received her badge of office as President of the Nursing Cadets from Area Cadet Officer Miss White. Many Area Officers visited the demonstrations; and the success of the effort has been such that it is hoped to make it an annual feature.
Southend-on-Sea.-On September 12, District Commissioner Major A. C. White Knox visited Southend-on-Sea for the dedication of a new ambulance, which brings the Division's fleet up to five with a Mobile First Aid Unit in addition. The Commissioner, who was accompanied by Asst. Commissioner Dr. E. S. Abraham, was conducted on a tour of first aid stations by Supt. W. J. Clitter and Amb. Officer W. T. Ellingford, arriving at St . John Headquarters for the inspection of personnel of the Ambulance, Nursing, Cadet Ambulance and Cadet Nursing Divisions. Ambulance Cadets sounded the General Salute; and when a bugler sounded "the alarm" five ambulances drew up in line in front of the Headquarters. Following the inspectiofl, the Dedication service was conducted by the Rev. D. A. Youngman, the hymns being accompanied by the Southend Ambulance Band. Major White Knox expressed his satisfaction at all he had seen and congratulated the Division on its work. Supt. Clitter thanked the Commissioner for his encouraging remarks and for his visit. The Southend Ambulance Division 301
carries out all the ambulance duties for the Borough and they also have a most successful Medical Comforts Depot which is much appreciated by members of the general public.
LANCASHIRE DISTRICT
Liverpool.-The annual inspection of the five Liverpool Corps was held at the Strowger Vlorks Recreation Ground on September 11. The units commanded by District Officer W. E. Searl presented a smart appearance and the demonstrations following the inspection evoked applause from the large crowd. The Inspecting Officer was Commissioner Major E. S. Burt-Hamilton who was supported by members of his staff. After addressing the parade the Commissioner presented awards. During the afternoon music was supplied by the Liverpool City Police Band, the Liverpool Cadet Band playing the General Salute.
Lytham St. Annes.-The opening ceremony of the recruiting week was a church parade, when the local divisions attended divine service at St. Annes Parish Church, where the Rev. Canon Aspin conducted the service. Led by the Band of the A.C.F. the Divisions, under Supt. R. Ralphs, were subsequently addressed by the Deputy Mayor, Ald. Wren. Hilton, who also presented awards.
Preston.-A Grand Mannequin parade of Autumn Fashions opened by Jimmy Jewel and Ben ViTarris, radio stars of " Up the Pole ", was held in the ballroom of the Victoria Station Hotel, Preston, where it was witnessed by an audience of 250. The parade was organized by District Supt. Miss 11. R. Moore and Dishict Officer Miss J. Eccles, supported by County Surgeon Dora ,\'heeler and ot.her District Officers.
The annual report of the Corps Superin, tendent, recently issued in booklet form, provides a complete picture of the multifarious activities of the various organizations within the Corps. Included are reports of the Corps Surgeon, Nursing Corps Superintendent, Flo·wer Mission, Comforts Depot, and Entertainments Committee. Members of the Flower Mission visit patients weekly in the Sharoe Green Hospital, provide flowers and magazines and at Christmas time additional comforts. During the war a Free Dormitory for Servicemen was provided at Headquarters and the following excerpt from a letter received by the President from Major-General Grover, Director of Army Welfare Service, is both interesting and worthy of reproduction :-" It is with great regret that I learned of the closing of Chapel \Valks Dormitory after nearly seven years of devoted service for the Forces. The report of the work done by the Preston Corps, S.J.A.B., has been received with very great interest and appreciation, and I would ask you to con.vey to all members of the Corps who have contributed so much at great personal effort and inconvenience, my most sincere thanks on behalf of the Army Welfare Service." Such appreciation gives great encouragement while the knowledge that a magnificent task has been performed, with the usual Brigade efficiency, is ample reward for those who worked so assiduously.
Hulme.-On September 16, through the courtesy of Mr. W. L. Beeby (of Metropolitan .vickers Elechical Co., Ltd.), an mterestmg lecture and demonstration was given at headquarters on the "Proto" and "Salvus" breathing apparatus by Mr. W. Potter of the Company's Fire Brigade.
Commissioner Major A. C. White Knox inspecting the Southend-on-Sea Ambulance Division.
COUNTY OF BUCKINGHAM
Amersham.-On Saturday, September 25, the Countess 1Iountbatten of Burma (Superintendent-in-Chief) officially opened the new Ambulance Station at Amershamon-the-Hill. This building is the only one to have been erected and equipped in this country since the war. Accompanied by County Commissioner Major P. G. Darvil-Smith, the Countess was welcomed at the station by Major M. Beachcroft (Chairman of the St. John County Council), Iajor G. Boyce (Chairman Amersham Rural District Council), and Dr. H. J. Henderson (Surgeon of the four Amersham Di\'isions). Lady Mountbatten inspected the personnel on parade, after which Dr. Henderson in a speech of welcome briefly outlined the history of the Brigade in Amersham which started in 1933. He referred to the difficulties encountered in the building of the Ambulance Station and stat.ed that, but for the hard work and tenacity of Cadet Supt. K. A. Nathan and the generosity of the Divisional President, such obstacles could never have been overcome. The building as seen to-day was but a part of a much larger plane. It now had accommodation for two ambulances, dut.y room, meeting hall, cloakrooms, and kitchen. Funds were still needed, and were coming in quite well, for further equipment and development.
Lady Mountbatten expressed thanks for the welcome given her, and referred to Major Darvil-Smith's record of almost 40 year's unbroken service in the Brigade. He was, she said, an inspiration to all who were engaged in the ·work. Dr. Henderson had the true spirit of service at heart, and with t.his leadership, coupled to the smartness and keenness which she had seen on parade, the members deserved all success in their work in Amersham. As an example of Br;igade accomplishments, Lady Mountbatten quoted the fact that the 546 St. John Ambulances in this country had, during 1947, travelled 3 million miles and attended 550,000 first aid cases. Everyone was asking if St. John was still needed under the new Health Scheme. The answer (and she had received this personally from the Minister of Health) was that the fullest co-operation was both needed and welcomed from such vol un tary organizations in the carrying out of this new State undertaking.
called forth. He commented on her service not only to St. John but to the whole Empire, and wished her, in the name of those present, all happiness and success in the future.
Dedication prayers were then offered by the Rev. H. J. D. Caunter, of St. Michael's.
The architect presented the Countess with the key and she unlocked the doors of the Ambulance Station and declared it open.
The guests were then entertained to tea and given the opportunity to inspect the excellent premises. A huge christening cake, most beautifully iced and inscribed ·with the eight points of St. John was cut and distributed by Countess Mountbatten.
Among the distinguished guests were Mrs. Darvil-Smith, members of the County Staff, representatives of the British Red Cross Society, Presidents Mrs. Henderson and 1fr. John Jacobs, Alderman A. ''.'oodley (Chairman County Health Committee), Mr. Harold Morris (Chairman Amersham Parish Council), County Council and Rural District Council Officials, Mrs. Boyce (District Organizer ViT.V.S.), local and ministers and past officers and members of the Amersham Divisions.
High Wycomhe.-A hand-carved wooden shield has been sent to the Auckland Division, New Zealand, by members of the High ,Yycombe Division, for Competition work. This gift is a token
Major Boyce expressed to St. John personnel present the high esteem in which they were held locally. Behind their service lay years of voluntary time and training to provide such skill and efficiency in times of need, this being in itself the purest form of service. Major Darvil- The Countess Mountbatten of Burma Smith expressed the joy and appreciation (Superintendent-in-Chief) at the opening which Countess Mountbatten's presence of the Amersham Ambulance Station. 303
of appreciation from the members in return for the many welcome food parcels which they have received from the Auckland Division, and it is hoped that the shield will strengthen the bond of friendship which was forged some time ago. The wood for the shield came from the home of 'William Shakespeare, at Stratford-on-Avon.
COUNTY OF CHESHIRE
Wallasey Corps.-An interesting event took place at County Headquarters on September 11, when Lord Leverhulme presented a cup to the Liscard Nursing Division. This new trophy, which is to be competed for annually, is the gift of Lord Leverhulme to the County and will be awarded to the Division adjudged the most efficient. Liscard Nursing Division has achieved the distinction of being the first winners. The cup was received by Amb. Officer Mrs. J. Gough in the presence of County Commissioner Capt. P. Reay who introduced His Lordship, who also presented trophies to the successful teams in the Cadet competitions which had taken place prior to the presentation.
COUNTY OF DERBY
Glossop and District Division.-Headed by the Oldham Corps Pipe Band, members of the Glossop and District Ambulance and Nursing Divisions, Chapel en Ie Frith, Buxton, Harpur Hill Nursing Divisions, and Stalybridge Ambulance and Nursing marched to Shrewsbury Street Methodlst Chapel, for a service which was conducted by Pte. J. Long of the Glossop Division, a local lay preacher, the address being given by the Rev. A. Sibson. Prior to the service the parade, which was under the of Div. Supt. L. Hardy, was mspected by District Officer F. Brindley.
COUNTY OF JERSEY
The "J. R. Hanna" individual and the Assinder Spitfire team competitions were held recently. The former trophy was won by Pte. T. G. Hutt, and the latter by the team composed of Corpl. A. G. Burt (leader), Corpl. H. W. Barnard, Ptes. P. Clarke and C. P. Vautier. The were compiled by Asst. CommisSlOner O. L. Aubin and staged by Amb. ?fficer C. H. Todd. Dr. F. J. O'Dowd Judged the individual test and County Commissioner Dr. J. R. Hanna the team competition.
County Commissioner Sir Thomas Cook, and Lady Cook. The County Commissioner in his address, stated that he welcomed the opportunity of taking part in what would rank as a red letter day in the history of Ambulance work in that part of the County. He paid tribute to the medical profession for their interest in the organization, and congratulated the committee on the success which had attended their effort in raising money for the new vehicle. After appealing for recruits, Sir Thomas concluded by saying that he hoped that nothing but good fortune would attend the new ambulance when on its missions of mercy.
Hingham.-There was a good attendance at the social organized by Mr. A. J. Neve, Member-in-Charge, assisted by members of the local detachment of the B.RC.S. and held in the Lincoln Hall. Field Marshal Lord Ironside presided at a joint presentation of awards made by County Commissioner Sir Thomas Cook on behalf of the Brigade, and Lady Ironside for the B.RC.S. Entertainment and music for dancing was provided by an RA.F. Concert Party from Watton.
NORTHUMBERLAND AND DURHAM
Officers' FraternaI.- The third fraternal of 1948 was held on September 4, when 61 Officers of the Brigade with their friends were conveyed by bus from Newcastle to the Whittle Dene waterworks of the Newcastle and Gateshead Water Company, where they were conducted over the premises by the Chief Chemist, Mr. Palin, and two assistants, Messrs. Lishman and Learney. The machinery and recording were inspected; processes of gravity and pressure filtration explained, and the testing of water for bacteria, ozonization, chlorination, and colour demonstrated. Before leaving the premlses the party expressed their appreciation of an instructive and entertaining visit. After journeying to Hexham, the party had tea, and were then conducted by the Verger through the Abbey.
COUNTY OF NORTHAMPTON
Rushden.-The guests of honour at the Masonic Hall were Mr. William Loveday, founder of Canada's first St. John Ambulance Division, and Mrs. Loveday. At the age of 17 Mr. Loveday decided to take up a hobby by which other men would ,," I do .not know of anything"
COUNTY OF NORFOLK he saId, that glVes a greater thrill than N h to be called to a neighbour's house when ort Walsham.-A new Ambulance h' was dedicated by the Rev. R H. Brad- mg has. gone wrong, and you as shaw, to the service of the h a skllfu l first alder can do the right thing Division. Present at the \Valsham act the time." I:Ie left England for ony were anada ill 1907, and It was after he had 304
given first aid at an accident which occurred during a game of handball, that first aid was talked among the young men, and the first division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade was formed. Wearing the uniform of a District Officer, Mr. Loveday declared, " It is better for us to be well trained and not needed, that to be needed and not know what to do."
During the evening Acting Supt E. Hobbs presented a fountain pen to retiring Supt. G. W. Timpson, who he said had always been a tower of strength to the Division. Mr. Timpson replying, said that the work had been a pleasure to him, but felt that after serving for 40 years, the time had come for the younger generation to take more interest in affairs. Guests included Corps Supt. J. M. Bailey, Mr. J. H. J. Paragreen, Chairman of the Urban Council, Divisional Surgeon B. \V. Paine, and other Corps.
COUNTY OF SOMERSET
Frome.-By permission of the National Coal Board, a party of men, women, and senior cadets from the Frome Divisions were conducted over Norton Hill Colliery, Midsomer Norton. General interest was shown in the layout of the mine and questions were asked on the first aid arrangements. On returning to " Land" the party inspected the engine-house and the well-equipped First Aid Room, in which was burning a cheerful fire.
COUNTY OF SUSSEX
During Goodwood Week members of the Chichester Ambulance and Nursing Divisions established four F.A. Posts in connexion with the races, and oVZing to the exceptional heat members were kept very busy. Nearly 600 cases were treated, including two fatal. Five cases were removed to the Royal vVest Sussex Hospital. These duties were undertaken in addition to the usual ones; and mention must be made of the excellent voluntary service given by Amb. Sister Miss Mavis Redman who, in the four days of the races, put in 55 hours of duty. This included 18 hours in one day when a case had to be transported to London at 7 p.m. and a second night trip two days later to Hornchurch in Essex.
lung, were shown. In a short speech, President L. T. MarcH thanked the Education Authorities for the use of the Theatre, the Central Office of Information for the screening of the films, and all Officers and Members for their help which had made the evening a success.
Hospital Services Division.-Realizing that as a result of an accident in which 18 persons were injured, many of them seriously, a heavy strain would be placed on the staff of the accident department at the hospital, Amb. Officer Truslove immediately made an offer of assistance to the hospital, which was accepted. In a few minutes he had contacted several members of his division, some of whom had had casualty experience, and they were dispatched to the hospital arriving soon after the first victims of the accident. They were kept busy during the night; and two members, Amb. Officer Brown and Pte. P. Gilbert, remained until 8 a.m. On completion of their work they were thanked by the Casualty Officer, Dr. Lancaster, who expressed surprise at the prompt and efficient services rendered.
WEST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE
Ardsley.-The annual social, at which some 50 members and wives were present, was held at the Old White Bear Hotel, Tingley. Awards were presented by Leeds Area Secretary F Longbottom, and among those 'who received awards was C/Supt. G. R Taylor who has recently been admitted a Serving Brother of the Order. This brings the number of members so honoured to six.
Brighouse Corps.-Asst Commissioner H. Harrison, who was accompanied by Area Cadet Officer Mrs. BaIsden carried out the annual inspection on September 7. Mrs. BaIsden praised the Nursing Divisions for their smartness, and made an appeal for new members. Brighouse Nursing was the senior Nursing Division in the district, and therefore should lead parades.
Asst. Commissioner Harrison addressing the parade informed the members that when he was a private in the Brigade, Brighouse'was l ooked upon as the home of first aid; and he hoped that this would again become true. He wanted more recruits. He expressed his pleasure on the Cadets especially the Cadet Corps Band.
COUNTY OF WARWICK Halifax Corps.-The Nursing personnel
Coventry.-A Medical Film Show given of the Corps undertook, at the request of at the Technical College Theatre proved the Women's Standing Conference, first to be very popular, and in consequence it aid duties at the camp for school children is hoped to organize further shows for the which was held on the outskirts of Halifax. future. To an enthusiastic audience Members attended daily from 9 a.m. to numberiflg some 700, from the Central 5 p.m., and during the time nine nursing Corps and surrounding districts, the personnel covered the first two weeks, films (1) Scabies and their treatment; being responsible for all nursing duties. (2) Treatment of accident cases at During tha.t period 415 cases of mishap, Hospital; and (3) Removal of diseased etc., received attention.
305
POSTURAL TREATMENT
By l\IAJOR H. C. STEWART, M.D. (County Surgeon, No. I (Prince of TV ales's) District.)
From time to time new words and phrases make their appearance often for a time to be repeated by all of us, only to fade and be forgotten when the cause has been removed. Others of more yalue and lasting worth are ultimately included as a permanent part of our language. The intimate mixing of different races as occurs in war rather than peace has produced such household words as "blitz" "prang ", " kite ", " quisling ,< " mafeking "; while even the French language, in peace time, at any rate, has adopted the word t( rostbif " with a variety of spellings !
Even aid is not immune from such changes and progress, and many must have b een asked r ece ntly in th e ir examinations and re-examinations about such things as t( crush in juries" or " postural treatment". What then is meant by the term t( postural treatment"; is it a good term and why has it been introduced? Well, it is a good term, for it is a convenient expression covering a number of different things, also it is important to understand at once that although we may not be familiar with the term it is only the t( postural" that is new, the t( treatment" designated by It; for whether we r ealize it or not we have all practised postural treatment for a very long time, in fact, since the inception of first aid, or if we have not, we are most inefficient at our job.
postural treatment, first appeared in BF/ II / A, and also in association report sheets, early this year.
lvIany examples of postural treatment come readily to mind. In connection with circulatory trouble, as when the patient is unconscious, the head and shoulders are lowered if the face is pale and raised if flushed. When fainting or syncope occurs the patient is placed on his back, the head is lowered or the legs raised or both, or if the person looks pale, feels giddy and, in fact, has the premonitory symptoms of fainting, the lowering of the head between the knees will often suffice to preven t the onset of the syncopal attack.
In cases of bleedin g from the nose it might not scem unreasonable to hold the head over a basin or sink so as to be nearer to the cold tap for purposes of sponging and cleansing with cold water, but in this position the cononly increases the bleeding, and that IS why the sitting position with the h ead thrown back is ad vi sed. In th e case of hcemorrhage from a varicose ve.in, the leg is raised with the patient lymg down, and again congestion is reduced and therefore hccmorrhage • also. In the case of wounds of the abdominal wall, the most importan t aspect treatment is postural, for read m. the Textbook, before anything else IS mentioned ;-
The word postural is an adjective A. liVhen there is protrusion of organs. derived from the noun t( posture" and (a) the wound is vertical, kee p means, thereforc, that it has to do with t he patIent flat on his back w i th t h e the position of the body, so that lower limbs straight. postural trcatment is treatmen t in- (b) If, the wound is t ransverse posture or body position. In keep the patient on his back, fact, It IS evcn more than this, because the knees well up, and raise the h ead the is used to mcan treatment by and shoulders. of position alone, and thus Except for the application of i ce, m use It may be applied to a part or a ld of the hody, such as a limb or head and co compress, to the affec t ed shoulders, or .even to the whole body. part, the of rupture (hernia) A fir IS essentIally a matter of co rrect ny st aId treatment given in- postural treatment. evitably involves the use of postural In fracturcs of the r ibs when treatment, which may be a complete complicated by injury to an int ernal ?lethod in it.self, more commonly, organ the patient is laid down with IS employed m conjunction with othcr t h b forms of treatment. The . e ody inclined to the injured side expresslOn, and supported in that position an d 306 '
again this posture is the most important part of treatment in this condition, by relieving pain and by minimizing the excursion of the chest on the injured side with each breath, so giving the uninjured side complete freedom of movement.
In the case of a fractured limb, in an emergency, when nothing else is immediately available, the limb is gently lifted and rested on a pillow or substitute in the most comfortable position. '\Vhen children swallow toys, coins, etc., if we are on the scene quickly enough we tip them upside down, shake them, pat their backs, as also is done to empty people of water in cases of drowning.
The principle of postural treatment is often used in conjunction 'with the support given by slings, bandages, and splints. In fractures of the arm the limb is supported and put at rest and thus pain is relieved by the use of the appropriate sling, and in fractures of the knee-cap th e support of the foot well off the ground is important as it also is in preventing s\velling in a crushed foot by raising it similarly.
Therefore, to sum up, we find that postural treatment is not new at all, but merely a term introduced which conveniently expresses an integral part of first aid, connected with position that, in fact, we have been practising all the while. It acts by reducing swelling and hcemorrhage, by preventing congestion in injured parts and thereby greatly reduces pain; at other t imes it lessens congestion of the brain or improves its circulation when defective, and really forms one of the most important and fundamental mance u vres that are performed wheneve r we are called to put our knowledge of first aid to the test.
OBITUARY
Captain of the Wolverton" A" Amb ulance Team which he led to victory on several occasions, winning the L.M.S. Railway Final and also the Brigade Final. At the Brigade Jubi lee Celebrations i n 1937 his team was successful' in wi n ning the British Empire Competition. Members of the team acted as Bearers at the funera l. Sir William Ge ntl e , J.P. , who for many years was an enthusiastic supporter of the Brigade activities in the Thetford, orfolk, locality. He was appointed a Knight of the Order in April, 1948.
Mr. R. E. Lo ve land , Vice-President o f the Winchester Ambulance Division. H e took a keen interest in the welfare o f the community; and as an Officer o f the Order was actively associated with the Brigade "When the division ran its ow n ambulance service, he presented a n ambulance for its use. Members of the Brigade were present at the memoria l service held in the Cathedral, \V'inchester, on September 9.
Vice-Pr es id e nt W J. E lb y of the Haggerston Division on September 18. He had been Vice-President for many years and had helped considerably with Divisional finance.
P ri va te J. Hi c k s, of the Haggerston Division who passed away on September 17. He had been a member for 25 years and held the Service Medal and two Bars. At the \ Vemb ley Exhibition in 1923-4 he was Station Member.
BOOK REVIEWS
Anatomy. By A. David Le Vay, M.S., F.R.C S.
Ph ys iolog y . By A. David Le Vay, 1.S., F.R.C.S.
London: The English Universities Press, Ltd., Warwick Square, E.C.4. 4 s. 6d . each.
These two books are additions to the t( Teach Yourself Series" and should find a place in the li brary of those who wish to understand and learn more fully abo u t the subjects of Anatomy and Physiology.
The books aim to provide a simple bu t accurate account of the structure and physiological processes of the human body, We regret to an n o u nce the death of the and both will prove useful to students,
f ollowing :- nurses, and first aiders Each book
Supt. (R) S. A. Wehher , who j oined the contains many excell ent illustrations, some Wo l verton Division i n 192 1, was admitted of which have been taken .from Gray's to the Order of St. J ohn in 1940, and Anatomy. promoted to Divisi on a l Superintendent i n Generally, books as well illustrated as 1941. This position he had to re linquish. these, and those containing such excellent owing to ill heal th. After a l ong illness reading matter, are priced beyond the he died on J u l y 11 He will be remembered purse of the average person, but at 4s. 6d. by h is many Ambu lance friends as the the price should be within the reach of a l l. 30 7
LEITERS TO THE EDITOR
Dear Sir,
DIVISIONAL ACTIVITIES
The article by Dr. B. Rosefield in the September issue of The Gazette is, I consider, one of the best of recent months and very encouraging to me as it shows the writer is alive to the present position in the Brigade.
After a quarter of a century of service I feel at times very disappointed and, having given the greater part of my leisure time to the work of the Brigade, wonder if it has been worth while.
The Division to which I am a member was founded over 20 years ago, and for a period we had a fair number of members. Some, for one cause or another, left before the war, until to-day we are a mere handful for serious Brigade work. New members are slow in joining-why? And what is the reason for old members losing interest?
It would appear to me that a much deeper interest could be taken in what I would term outlying Divisions, by Headquarters to really see how things are inside the Divisions, with suggestions for improvement in working, and with a view of creating and stimulating interest among the members themselves. We seldom see officers or members from other Divisions, except at the annual inspections when everything is a rush and little, if any, time is allowed to meet and chat, exchange ideas , and, yes, possibly a little grouse.
It is good to know what other Divisions
the few. Do we pay enough attention to this side of our grand organization that influences the lives of many who put Brigade interests first, apart from their means of livelihood? Many Divisions have these troubles, in a greater or lesser degree. Has discipline, or lack of it, had anything to do with the cause? Strict adherence, or slack interpretation, of regulations or, in view of present-day conditions, are Brigade interests best served by regulations in their present form?
Would a District Welfare or Liaison Officer, who could get among the members, be an advantage in finding causes of loss of interest, and perhaps find a remedy? Even in this great civil organization members have their own troubles with which to contend, as well as little grievances inside the Brigade which could be smoothed out with tactful handling. You have my name and address, Mr. Editor, but I trust at the moment I may shelter under the nom de plume" Pro Utilitate Hominum ".
(Editor's Note.-Many Divisions of the Brigade arrange social inter-Divisional meetings at which games, competitions, etc., are held. One Division in London entertains members from Wales and, in turn, are entertained by their Welsh colleagues Such gatherings do much to foster the Brigade spirit )
are doing, and social visits between Dear Sir, neighbouring units might be an advantage; as also would N.C.O's meetings similar to FIRST Am LEAGUE FOR LONDON the County meetings for officers which are In my recent article in the Ga zette, I held from time to time. suggested that a First Aid League, In some Divisions the committee is organized on the lines of a football small, and more so when the appointments league, would add to the interest and are not up to strength, and may comprise pleasure of our work. Teams would the same members for years. Owing to include those from factories, railways, the form of committee as laid down by police, in addition to members of the regulations, other members full of en- Brigade; in fact all those who use the thusiasm seldom get the chance to use St John training. The league would their abilities and they cool down and ultimately have its first, second, and third lose interest. Had they been given some- divisions, with promotions from one thing to do in running the Division they division to another on merit. would remain valuable members. Since the appearance of the article I Too many members seem to attend have received many letters and meetings only when they have nothing from those interested in the scheme and it else more interesting to do; they come is proposed to call a meeting of tho'se who late and want to get away at the first have intimated that they Would support opportunity. By their slack attendance the venture. leave their share of the work to those Activities would be confined to the City more interested. The motto of the Brigade and Metropolitan Police Areas Ior a start " For the Service of Mankind 11 is a very but possibly this area would be extended high ideal to live up to, and the Brigade when experience has been gained. should be a great brotherhood in this The object of the league Would be to troubled world. Such service demands promote a more general interest and much sacrifice of all members, not only by keenness in first aid; and it is felt that 308
much can be learnt from each organization.
May I ask you to insert this letter in the Gazette, with a request to those interested to communicate with the undersigned at 31 Shepherds Bush Road, London, W. 6. A meeting will be called at the earliest date to form a provisional committee to discuss the details.
Yours faithfully, B. ROSEFIELD, L.R.C.P.1., L.R.C .S.1.
Dear Sir,
THE WELFARE OF OLD PEOPLE
The members of the Dartford Nursing Division have read with particular interest the article in the August issue of The Gazette.
An Old Peoples' 'Welfare Committee has recently been formed in Dartford when all local organizations were asked to be represented. Corporal Mrs: .Armour myself represented our DivIslOn, and It IS hoped to get the scheme fairly under way during the next few months.
It is interesting to read what IS already being done by St. John members and is a guide to what we ourselves can do. Any further information will be welcomed.
The Darby and Joan Club, in the article, at the St. John Hall, m Farningham, is, I understand, sponsored by the vV.V.S.
Yours faithfully, 1. RYDER, Ambulance Officer and Divisional Sec1'e tary.
RAILWAY AMBULANCE NEWS
LONDON PASSENGER EXECUTIVE
The annual presentation of awards was held at Baker Street on September 2, when Mr. A. B. B. Valentine (President of the Centre) presided. After welcoming the guests, he called upon B Girouard (Assistant Nursing Corps and DIvislOns of .the Brigade) to address the large gathenng. Mrs. Girouard spoke on the work of the Brigade and the plans for future. There was much to be done, and she asked all present to obtain one friend.to help in work. In addition to first aId and nursmg duties there was the welfare work undertaken at hospitals, the home service help, the hospital library servce, and aId and nursing in industry. Mr. GIrouard also referred to the new Air Unit of the Brigade. Mr. Valentine expressed sincere thanks to Mrs. Girouard for her excellent
Centre stated that 236 first aid and home nursing awards had been gained during the past year, the number being exactly the same as the previous year. Competition teams had done well, both in Association and BrIgade events. This year is the 25th year of the Corps existence as a unit of the Brigade, and he paid tribute to the assistance rendered by members of the medical profession.
Sir Edward Hardy (a member of the Executive) presented the awards, which included Special Certificates for first aid rendered to Mr. Albert J eal, Mr. Stanley Weeks, and Mr. Robert Hodge. These cases were considered the most outstanding from the 2,388 cases reported. Hally tablet certificates were presented to Ernest MacJames (first year), J ohn Hogan (second year), and Patrick Shallow (third year). Sir Edward paid tribute to the work undertaken by members and dealing with future activities referred to the suggestion that all members of the London Passenger Executive (rail, tram, buses, etc.) should be included in the activities. Dr. L. G. Norman, Chief Medical Officer, in thanking Sir Edward Hardy, stated that a First Aid Organizer had been appointed to arrange classes and examinations. Major A. C. White Knox (Commissioner No.1 District of the Brigade), presented' the Order of St. John Service Medal to Sergt. Stanley ·Weekes. Sergt. A. Stokes had also qualified for the medal, but was unable to attend.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
OCTOBER
21. Investiture of Order of St. John Insignia by the Grand Prior, Mansion House, London.
22. Cadet National Competition Finals, Central Hall, London.
23. St. John Cadet Broadcast, Children's Hour, 5.15 p.m.
26. Meeting of Oxfordshire St. J ohn Council.
27 to 30. St. John Exhibition, Working Men's Hall, Shrewsbury.
30. Hospitallers Club Annual Dinner, Cora Hotel, London .
30 to 31. Annual Conference and Dinner of Brigade Surgeons, Royal Hotel, London.
MORE COPIES
Does your colleague read the Gazette? More copies are now available and orders for single copies, or monthly should be forwarded to the Pu blIshmg and interesting talk.
Mr. J. H. Gravestock tary) reporting on the actiVItIes
Secre- Officer, 46-47 Chancery Lane, London, of the W.C. 2.
309
RESPI RATION
By Professor J. 1\:I. PETERSON, D.Se.
A Synopsis of a Lecture given in the series arranged by the Priory for TV ales for Colliery First Aid personnel in No.6 Area of the South-TtVestern Division, National Coal Boa1' d.
One of the most obvious things about the human body is that it is always giving out energy. This expenditure of energy occurs all the time. Our bodies give out energy 'when we move about: a heavy person gives out more energy than a light person. ,,\Ve give out more energy when we lift and carry things. We lose energy in the heat necessary to keep our bodies warm. This loss of heat we try to control to some extent by 'wearing clothes. Even when we are asleep our bodies are expending energy: our hearts continue to beat, the breathing muscles go on working, and the organs of digestion continue to work.
An y engine that is losing energy m ust have the energy replaced or renewed or it will run do·wn. Where does the energy come from? The steam engine gets its energy by the burning of coal and the motor bicycle ?y the of petrol. This burning IS. a combmatlOn of oxygen of the air, WIth carbon and hydrogen of the coal and petrol. Carbon combined with oxygen yields carbonic acid gas and energy, while hydrogen combined with oxygen yields water and energy. In our bodies a somewhat similar process goes on. The carbon and hydrogen of our food combine with oxygen, yielding carb?nic acid gas, water, and energy. But m our bodIes the oxygen combines with the substances of our food to give the energy without smoke or flame.
Our bodies are made up of larue numbers of individual cells. The different organs have different types of cells, and it is within these small living cells that the oxidation or burning Occurs. These cells are extremely small. A cubic inch of liver 'will contain about one thousand millions. Seeing that the oxidation Occurs within the cells throughout the body the oxygen must not only get into the body, but it must also be carried to every part-to every living cell within the body.
How does it get in? The oxygen
used is the oxygen of the atmospheric air. About one-fifth of the air is oxygen. The air is breathed into the lungs. In this breathing the lungs themselves are entirely passive. The air is sucked into them by the chest cavi ty being made bigger. I t is made bigger in two ways: (r) by the descent of the diaphragm, which is a muscular partition stretched across the body at the base of the chest and curved upwards. This diaphragm is made of muscle, and when the muscle shortens it is pulled down, sucking air into the lungs; (2) by the raising of the ribs. One can show by a model how the raising of the ribs, which are normally curved downwards, can increase the diameter of the chest. When we breathe in, the chest cavity is increased in size in all three directions, vertically, from side to side, and from front to back. The movements of the diaphragm and ribs can be demonstrated by X-ray photographs.
The oxygen has not only to get into the lungs, but it has to pass from the lungs into the blood by which it is carried throughout the body. The lungs are made up of vast numbers of minute air sacs. These sacs have very thin delicate cells through which gases pass easily. On the surface of the walls are minute branching blood vessels. The volume of blood which flows through the small blood vessels iI: the lungs is very large. In any given hme the volume of blood flowi ng through the lungs is approximately equal to the volume which flows through all the rest of the body.
.To carry the oxygen, the blood contams large numbers of small red blood cells. They are called red because of the substance which they contam. ThIS coloured substance is called hcemoglobin. It combines with ?xygen, when it is carrying oxygen. It IS a bnght red colour. It is easy t o demonstrate this combination of oxygen with hcemoglobin.
Welsh Bri ga d e F i na l Ca d et Co m petiti o ns.
-At the City Hall, Cardiff, September 25, Cadet teams which had won their way through county eliminating competed in the \Yelsh champIOnshIp contests.
The competitions were staged in the Assembly Room, where a large gathering of Cadet Officers and Brigade supporters from \'arious areas concerned watched the teams carry out the tests.
The adjudication was carried out by Assistant Commissioner l\Iajor G. S. Phillips, Assistant County Surgeon E. J. \Villiams, Corps Surgeon C. A Bence, Dr. I. Robertson, Divisional Surgeon L. M. C. Clopet, uniforms being judged by Assistant Commissioner Major A. H. G. Field and Lady County Superintendent Miss G. Richards.
The following results were announced by the Brigade Secretary at the presentation ceremony over which the Hon. John H. Bruce (Principal Secretary and Commi sioner for \Vales) presided :-
The Twiston-Davies Cups were presented to the captains of the Senior and Junior Boys' Teams and the Lady (Herbert) Lewis Cup to the girls by the Lord Mayor of Cardiff (Alderman R. G. Robinson, J.P.) who also handed prizes to the members of the first three teams in each contest. In addressing the Cadets he paid high tribute to the voluntary services of Brigade personnel in the City of
CENTRE REPORTS
BR ECKN OCK S H I R E
The Brynmawr Ambulance Division, second oldest unit in the Brigade in Wales, celebrated its Jubilee in a series of events held in September which culminated in a Grand Parade and Social on September 18, at which the Hon. John H. Bruce, Principal Secretary and Commissioner for Wales, presented an illuminated certificate commemorating the attainment of 50 years' service on September 15.
Headed by Brynmawr Silver Band, a parade of ambulance, nursing, and cadet members augmented by contingents from Nantyglo, Blaina, Beaufort, Ebbw Vale, Waun Llwyd, Gilwern, Clydach, Talgarth, Usk, and Pontsticill marched through the
town. The salute was taken by the Commissioner for Wales, who was accompanied by the Hon. Mrs. J. H. Bruce, Assistant Lady Superintendent for vVales. and Lieut.-Col. C. G. Cole-Hamilton, C.M.G., D S 0 Commissioner for Brecknockshire. 'in the evening Superintendent W. \iVatkins presided over a social evening, at 'which addresses were given by the Hon. John H. Bruce, the CommissioJ?-er for Brecknockshire, Mr. J. Hardmg (Chairman of the local Council), Councillors B. Morgan and T. Minton. Early experiences were recounted by Messrs. T. Luscott, E. Morgan, and J. Watson, veterans of the Brynmawr Division.
CA E R NA RVON S HIRE
The annual competition for the Cadets The judges were Dr. Hughes Davies, in Caernarvonshire was held through the Denbigh, and Dr. T. C. Oliver, Old generosit.y of the Commissioner, Sir Co lwyn, whose awards were as under ;Michael Duff, Bt., at Vaynol. Prepar?-- 1st Tregarth No.1 Team 11 5 marks tions had been made to hold t.he event m 2nd Dolgarrog No. 1 Team. 11 3 the park, but inclement weather it 02 necessary to have an indoor gathenng and 3rd Tregarth No.2 Team . 1 the ballroom proved an admirable setting. 4th Dolgarrog o. 2 Team. 92 311
The Commissioner introduced the Marchioness of Carisbrooke, who presented the prizes to the winning teams, and after tea the Cadets enjoyed a programme of indoor
games organized by Mr. J G. Jones and Corps Secretary H J. Roberts. Mr. R.I. Hughes carried out the duties of Competition Secretary.
GLAMORGAN
Nursing Officers' Conference.-Following her recent appointment as Lady County Superintendent, Mrs. C. G. Traherne invited County and Corps Officers in Glamorgan to Coedarhydyglyn for an informal afternoon meeting and tea on September 17. Each officer gave a report upon the position in her area and a very useful exchange of views and suggestions was much enjoyed by all present.
Bridgend County Area.-As a mark of appreciation of the services rendered by Mrs. H. A. Wright, Superintendent of the Bridgend Town Nursing Division, and in recognition of the honour conferred upon her ?y admission to the Order, a special serVIce was held at the English Congregational Church, at which Dr. R. Baird Divisional Surgeon, paid high tnbute to her good work. Mrs. Wright w<l:s presented with a Bible by Mrs. H. P. WIllIams, Head of the Primary Department, who expressed thanks for her services in connection with the annual outings to Ogmore Vale, where a first aid hut is maintained. During the service the Rev. William Evans (Wil Han), the Archdruid, dedicated two new flags to be flown over the first aid posts of Southerndown and Ogmore. Mr. T. H. Williams presided, supported by Mr. A. G. Grinnell, and the large gathering of Brigade Officers and members present included Assistant Commissioner D. M. Jones, Lady County
Officer Mrs. M. Waters, Lady VicePresident Mrs. R. Buffrey.
Caerphilly County Area.-The Annual Inspection was held in fine weather at Caerphilly on September 11. The parade, headed by the Windsor Colliery Workmens' Silver Band, proceeded from the Caerphilly railway station to the Castle grounds where the inspection was conducted by Captain W. J. Canton, Commissioner for Merthyr, and Mrs. C. G. Traherne, Lady County Superintendent for Glamorgan. They were supported by Mr. Edward Jones, Chairman of the Caerphilly V.D.C., Supt. of Police, W. Folland, Councillor W. J. Rowlands, Mrs. M. W. Ford, Bargoed, VIce-PresIdent Mrs. Beavis, Bargoed Nursing Division, Assistant Commissioner W. J. Skyrme, Lady County Officer A. E. Gravenor, County Officer C. M. Kitto, and others. Corps Superintendents R. Carter, T. J. Jones, and Hayden J ones were in charge of their respective Corps, whilst the Lady Corps Officers Mrs. A. M. Deacon, Mrs. R. Carter, and Mrs. C. Wallace were in charge of the Nursing units.
Commissioner Canton, in his remarks, paid a compliment to the Area in maintaining its strength and for the smart appearance and conduct of the parade. Reference was made to the achievement
of the Trelewis Cadets in winning the National Trophy at the national eisteddfod at Bridgend.
The Lady County Superintendent spoke encouraging words to the Nursing units, and the Chairman of the Caerphilly V.D.C. welcomed the Ambulance units.
Neath County Area.-The Annual Inspection of the Dulais Valley, Vale of Neath, and Neath Corps took place in the grounds of "Gelli ", the residence of Dr. C. H. Armstrong, Assistant Com-
CITY OF
The Deputy Lord Mayor (Dr. James 'Walker) attended the social evening arranged by the Cardiff Transport Ambulance Division on September 16 at the Transport '\iVelfare Institute, Cardiff, and presented a number of awards. He congratulated the Division on winning the League cup and upon having secured third place in the National Road Transport Competition for the "Stirk" trophy at Huddersfield. The recipients of awards included Mr. F. Siddall, Corpora-
missioner, which were looking their best in the beautiful sunshine. The Inspecting Officers were Hon. J. H. Bruce and Mrs. Bruce, who were very pleased with the manner in which the personnel turned out on parade, especially with the boy and girl cadets. After the inspection Dr. and Mrs. Armstrong entertained the units and a large number of guests to a delightful tea. Dr. E. P. Coyne was in charge of the parade, assisted by County Officer John Richards.
CARDIFF
tion Transport General Manager and President of the Division, and among those supporting the Deputy Mayor were Councillor J. P. Collins, Chairman of the Transport Committee, and Councillor C. A. Bence, County Surgeon. Assistant Commissioner Captain F. P. Robathan, thanked the Transport Committee for their interest and for the facilities granted to enable the Division to maintain efficiency in first aid.
ASSISTED BY ST. JOHN
(By courtesy South WalliS Argus) The. for Wales Hon. John H. Bruce), accompanIed by Lord Raglan, Lord-LIeutenant, inspecting the Newport Corps.
Many reports are received at Head- night, the Night Sister could not accept quarters of good work undertaken by responsibility for admitting the man; and members of the Brigade. Some of these the l\1aster, when telephoned, refused to have unusual circumstances; and the have anything to do with the case, as it following shows that in addition to render- was out of his area. Lymington Infirmary ing first aid, St. John personnel are ever was tried, but no bed was available Then ready to be of assistance in other spheres. the Christchurch Police were approached; A report from Hampshire tells of the but again no responsibility would be adventures of the New Milton Ambulance accepted. The patient had been talking and its crew. Returning empty from volubly and rather irrationally for some Bascombe Hospital, the crew were time, and it was gathered that he had been attracted by two St. John men at subject to fits for several years, and Jumper's Corner, Christchurch. On left his sister, with whom he had been i nvestigation it was found they were living, for this reason. The address on his a ttending a man who was suspected to be identity card was in Southampton; and su ffering from an epileptic fit, with the so it was decided that the only thing to do possibility of a fractured arm sustained was to go there and hope that someone when he fell. Convulsions had ceased, but would at least relieve the St. J olm the man was incoherent, and had definite personnel of the responsibility of the suicidal tendencies. In view of this and patient. On the way a stop was made at the suspected fracture, it was decided New Milton to drop the nurse who had to convey him to Bascombe Hospital, been out on the previous case, and to pick the two Bournemouth St. John men of the up her husband, who is a sergeant in the Transport Division accompanying the Division. It was now approximately New Milton men. Then the trouble com- 2.30 a.m. The next stop was Lyndhurst menced. On arrival at the hospital, the Police Station, where the constable on man was kept under supervision, and just duty telephoned through to Southampton, as a Medical Officer arrived the patient and ascertained that the patient had been had another fit. When this had subsided, missing from his home since midday, it was ascertained that there was no and that his brother-in-law was quite fracture, and the hospital authorities prepared to take him back. Eventually would not admit the man to hospital. the house was reached, and after assisting As he was in no fit state to travel by him- to put the patient to bed and having a cup self, he could not stand without assist- of coffee at the Police Station, the ambuance, the Medical Officer telephoned the lance arrived back at ew Milton at police. Again no responsibility would be 4.30 a.m., the crew being secure in the accepted. It was suggested that he be knowledge that they, at least, had done taken to Fairmile Infirmary, and this was all they could for a patient requiring done. On arrival, at approximately mid- attention.
313
INTERESTING CASE REPORTS
CASE REPORT No. 3SS.-The Officer-in-Charge of Western Area No. I (Prince of \ ,Vales's) District S.J.A.B. reports the efficient performance of first aid by a member of TO. 98 (vVimbledon and Southfields) Division in the following circumstances :-
About 1.15 p.m. on l\larch 2, Private James received a phone message that an accident had occurred at the Gas \iVater Plant of the Wandsworth and District Gas Company and that an ambulance had been summoned. He immediately went to the First Aid room, collected emergency kit, and proceeded to the scene of the accident. He learned that two men, F. Taylor and G. Faster, were repairing a pressure accumulator which had jammed at the top of its lift. Faster was working underneath, by the light of a lamp which was held by Taylor, when the accumulator \vas released, slid down its spindle, and struck Faster on the head and Taylor on the right shoulder. The latter was found lying on his back, his head supported on a coat, and with a large wound on the right shoulder visible through his torn shirt. The wound was contaminated with bits of torn shirt and pieces of wood, which Private James removed as far as he was able. As he could not see the full extent of the injury owing to the bleeding, he then undid a packet of wool, placed it within the wound, and fixed it in position with a triangular bandage. I ext he sent a workman for blankets in which he wrapped this patient pending the arrival of the ambulance. Instructing a colleague to keep a watch on Taylor, Private James proceeded to attend to his companion Faster, ·who had a large gash on his head and was badly shocked. Bleeding had ceased, and as he suspected a fractured skull, he placed a thick pad of lint over the wound and bandaged lightly. By this time the ambulance had arrived (nine minutes after it was called); and Private James reported to the attendant (I) that Taylor's right shoulder was smashed and accompanied by extensive bleeding from inside the wound and by fracture of humerus; and (2) that Faster was suffering from fracture of the skull. Unfortunately, Taylor died during the afternoon of the same day; and the doctor's report of his injuries ·was " a nine-inch wound of shoulder, smashed clavicle, smashed scapula, and fractures of seven ribs".
COMMENT.-The facts being as stated, Private] ames merits cordial congratulatwns on the efficient 1nanne1' in which he handled a difficult eme1'gency.-N. CORBET FLETCHER.
CASE REPORT No. 3S6.-The Officer-in-Charge of the orthern Ireland District S.J.A.B. reports the efiicient performance of first aid by a member of the Ballygowan ITursing Division in the following circumstances :-
At 7-45 p.m. on August 12, Ambulance Sister D. Martin was at home in Ballygowan when her attention was arrested by a screeching of brakes followed by a crash. V,Then she reached the accident she found a bus across the main road, with a motor-cycle pinned underneath it, and the cyclist about seven yards away lying against a wall. A/S. Martin at once informed the crowd which was collecting that she was a first-aider and, hastily scribbling some brief notes together with the telephone numbers of Doctor, Ambulance, and Police, she .asked a bystander to telephone all three for help. This done she examined patIent, whom she found to be bleeding from a gash on forehead and profus€ly from a wound of right leg, the foot of which was turned outwards while the bones were protruding. Next she obtained help from two men, one of whom she. asked to control the crowd, and the other to help her in her treatment of patIent;. and she s.ent a girl to her own home for splints and blankets. When eq171pment arnved, A/S. Martin wrapped patient in a blanket, applied an ImprOVised tourniquet to right thigh, dressed the wound, and controlled the fracturecl Ie&" with pad?ed splints and improvised bandages. The patient was for Clght mmutes only; and when he regained consciousness he kept strugglIng: to get up and kept throwing his left upper limb in such a way that A/S. l\lartm promptly examined the right which she found to be dislocated 314
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at the shoulder, and took steps to suppor t this limb as comforta?ly as possible. The hcemorrhaae from the leg having now ceased, A/S. 1artm relaxed the tourniquet. Shortly afterwards Nurse arrived in the and took charge of the patient, who was gIven a cup of tea before bemg tIansported t o hospital, where he made a recovery. !he. doctor. who examined him on adI11lSSlOn stated that the first aId treatment gIven Imm.edlately after the accident did much to alleviate the pain and distress, and that It would undoubtedly contribute largely to the ultimate recovery.
COMMENT.-Words of p1'aise from the doctors who take charge .of their pati.ents are always acceptable to first aiders. A mbulance Sister D. ]1.1 tS to be congmtlllated cordzally on the success which attended her efforts tn thts emergency. - -N. C. F.
QUE STIONS AND ANSWERS
Hremorrhage from Palm of Hand
D. O. (Borough).-The treatment of hcemorrhage from of hand as se t out in the Textbook seems to have been cancelled by that 111 the Supplement. This being so, I wonder if the hand is over pad on palm, the bandage applied and the hand supported 111 a St. J Slmg as prevlOusly taugh t in the Textbook. Your comments are eagerly avvaited.
YOH are right when you say that the special instruct1'ons fOY treatment of bleeding f rom palm, (which figure in the Textbook) are cancelled by the Suppleme11. t which favouys direct pressure. Nevertheless I thmk that if I had to treat such a case, I would make use of the fingers by making the patient firmly grasp the d1'essing and pad in the palm, and then by applying a narrow. bandage to kee.p the fist firmly clenched. This done, I would apply a St. John Shng, because enables me to carry out the instructions of the Supplement to elevate the bleeding part, more effectively than the other slings.-N. C. F
Treatment of Burns and Scalds
D. O (Borough) .-Also, when we have to treat patients for burns and scalds, does the Supplement expect us to apply sterilized dressings over the clothing? Thus if the burn or scald were on the forearm, would the sleeve be kept down and the dressing applied over it? Your further comment would be much appreciated
The instructions 1:11, the Supplement to Textbook clea1,ly state (r) that the clothing must not be rem,oved in treatment of burns, and (2) that the dressings must be applie d over the clothmg. This treatment must have had sertOus consideration before the 1'1 ding was made; and I take it that it was considered that, although the dressing s are not so effecttve as when placed directly over the burned skin, there are definite benefits (a) from avoid21'l.g exposure of injured surface (apart from the risk of callsmg complications by taking off clothing which will possibly adhere to the skin ) , and (b) from delay 'm removing patient to hospital.-N. C. F.
Definition of Insensibility
::'II. X. (Cardiff) .-Last week I was asked to give a definition of t h e t e r m "insensibility". As I could not do so, I shall be grateful for your kin d h e lp .
The term "insensibility" signifies that-owing to disturbance by some cause of the highest brain centres-the functions of the brain are in abeyance and that consequently there is an absence of all sensations. Further the last centres to be so affected are those which control the circulation and breathing " and the s t ages of msensibility are sleep, stupor, and coma.- . C. F.
Concussion or Shock
L. 1. (Barnstaple).-Please tell me if a knock-out blow on th e ch in, in t he case of a healthy boxer, causes concussion or shock, and a lso wha t is th e essen tial difference between these two conditions. Meanwhile my b es t t han ks in a n ti cipation of your kindness in answering my query.
A knock-out blow on the chin results in a violen t shake up of the brain and 31 6
ME DI CAL practice at home and overseas t h r ows great emphasis on the need for a form of concentrated nourishment-a perfec t invalid food. T h is is interpreted in day-to-day practice as the nec essity for a liquid food which completely meets every metab olic need, is readily accepted by the patient and is immediately assimilated .
/ Ovaltine' meets this necessity in a highly satisfactory manner, both as an emergency measure and as a regular routine. The nutritive and energizing constituents of' Ovaltine • are r apid ly assimilated, providing every dietary essential and, at the s ame tim e , allayin g nervous tension in a most helpful manner.
/ Ovalti n e' is a natural food tonic p repar ed from milk , eggs, mal t extract, cocoa and soya. Supplies are available t o hosp itals in special packings and at s p ecial p rices
A libe r al supply f or clini cal tr ial sent fre e on req ue st.
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causes what 1'S called concussion The essential difference between con c ussio n and shock is that with the former there is extra evidence or a history of some violence to the head which has caused a shake-ttp of the brain. On the other hand, shock is a disturbance of the brain associated with of the volu.ntary an.d funchons and is caused by trauma , especially wlth severe surgtcal operatton, or excessive (and often sudden) dtsturbance of the emotwns.- . C. F.
Treatment of Tar Scald
1\1. P. (Cardiff) .-If a workman during his employment gets his hands cove r ed with tar, sealing wax, or p r inter's" compo" sho u ld we be justified in leaving this hot-caked stuff on the inj ured part and get him at once to hospital, or s h o ul d we attempt to remove it and treat the scalded or burned skin underneath ? Your kind ruling will be muc h appreciated
The tar, sealing wax, or compo serve as protection to the scalded parts, consequently it is good fi rst aid not to remove it . If you do, and if you are successful in so doing, you will expose the injured part, contrary to the teaching of the Supplemen t to Textbook.-I. C. F.
Causes of Epilepsy and Coma
M . N. (Sydney, Australia) .-The T extbook tells us that Epilepsy (p. r60) is a s u dden loss of u nconscio u sness, and t hat in coma the patient is comple t e ly unconscious. This being so, I s h a ll be gr ateful if yo u wi ll t ell me whether o r no t a person in an ep il ep t ic fit is in a stat e of coma.
The conditions are totally different, and resemble each other only in the fa ct that each is accompanied by complete loss of consciousness Coma is usually secondary to some other cause (apoplexy, high fever, diabe tes, kidney disease , narcotic poisons, etc.), and it is more or less gradual in onset " it may last for hour s, and it often ends in death On the other hand epilepsy is the term applied to a nervous disorder cha,'acterized by disturbance of the functions of the brain and by complete loss of consciousness ; it is always sudden in onset ; its duration is measured in minutes, and of itself is rarely , if ever , fatal .. C.F.
NOTICE TO READERS
THE ST. JOHN GAZETTE is published on the 15th of each month. The Annual Subscription is 5S. post free ; single copies 4d., by post 5d. REPORTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS should be addressed to The Editor, St. John's G ate, London, E.C.I, and should reach him not later than the 28th of the month.
SUBSCRIPTIONS and ADVERTISEMENTS should be forwarded to British Periodicals, Ltd., 46-47, Chancery Lane, London, W.C.2.
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
Advertisementl with remittancl! should bl! sent to the St. John Gazette, 46-47 Chancery Lane, London, W.C.2 (to which address replies to Box Numbers should be forwarded). Rate 3d. per word, minimum 41. 6d. Box numbers u. extra. Trade advertisements 4d. per word, minimum 61.
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Prolonged
AFTER the successful application of an antiseptic, there still remains the risk offresh contamination by pathogenic organisms. I t is important, not only that the barrier should be effective when first set up, but that the protection should be prolonged.
The protection conferred by 'Dettol' is durable. It has been
shown that if 30 % 'Dettol' is applied to the skin and allowed to dry, the area remams msusceptible to fresh infection by streptococcus pyogenes for at least two hours.*
* This experimental finding (J.Obstet. GYllaec. Brit. Emp. Vol. 40 No.6) has been confirmed in obstetric jJr actice extending well over a decade. . . .
THE MODERN ANTISEPTIC
The G.B.C., V.H.F. Radio telephone provides a means of making
instant contact between control centre and ambulances on the road. Incidents can be dealt with more speedily, the ambulance crew being able to give instructions back to control, who can prepare the hospital for the case on the way It is as simple to use as the
telephone and makes for substantial savings in running costs. Further information will gladly be given upon request.
