Aspiration

(as-pe-ra’-shun). The operation of drawing off fluids from the body by means of an aspirator: this instrument consists of a hollow exploring needle fixed to a tube, which connects it with a bottle; the bottle in its turn is connected with an exhausting pump. There are two stopcocks at the head of the bottle, one to each connection. The air in the bottle is exhausted, and the needle is plunged into that part of the body where the fluid has congregated. The duty of the nurse is to have a second bottle at hand in case the first is not large enough to contain all the fluid, and to measure and note the amount of fluid withdrawn. She should also have ready a flannel bandage, 12 inches broad, lint, strapping, hot water, sponges, pins and brandy. After treatment, rest, light stimulating diet.