Irrigation

(ir-re-ga’-shun). Constant application of a lotion to a part. The simplest way is to suspend a basin over the part, fill the basin with the ordered lotion, hang strips of lint over the edge of the basin, so that one end is in the lotion and the other outside the basin; the lotion will then slowly drip from the lint strips, which act as syphons, on to the part and keep it constantly moist. This is most usually employed to secure cooling or cleaning of inflamed or sloughing wounds. Waterproof must be placed under the part irrigated. A ve el properly fitted with a tap and india-rubber tubing is required if a more copious flow is needed, as for instance in washing out an absce cavity.