Diphtheria

(dif-the’-re-a). Infectious inflammation of the throat, with formation of false membrane, which tends to close up the throat and cause suffocation. The earlier symptoms of diphtheria are like those of a heavy cold, with swelling of glands of the neck; the temperature does not run very high. Greyish-white patches appear on the tonsils and in the interior of the throat; this is the false membrane, and it must be frequently disinfected by sprays. May be treated by antitoxin injections. Frequent feeding with milk and beef-tea as ordered. Some physicians apply ice-bags to the throat, others hot poultices. Some order a gargle; others desire the nurse to paint, or mop out the throat. But the duty of the nurse will always be to watch very carefully and carry out all orders very skilfully. The patient should be isolated, all utensils disinfected; rag should be used for the nose and throat, and then promptly burnt. The nurse must be careful never to inhale the patient’s breath. In severe cases, where suffocation is imminent, tracheotomy or intubation may have to be performed, and the nurse should be prepared with everything required for this operation. Death may be due to blood-poisoning, sudden heart failure (permit no exertion on the part of the patient), or secondary pneumonia, as well as to suffocation. Paralysis (especially of the soft palate) is a common complication. Failure of the action of the kidneys has also to be dreaded. The room should be kept at 65°, and a steam kettle kept going. The nurse should gargle with Condy or some other disinfectant two or three times a day. On no account permit any one to ki the patient.