Extension

A certain pull or weight applied to a fractured or dislocated limb to keep it straight. A long piece of strapping about two inches wide, with a stirrup, consisting of a square piece of wood the same width as that of the foot at the ankle, and with a hole in the middle is required; also some short narrower pieces of strapping. To apply it, the stirrup should be about four inches below the foot, and the strapping attached to it should be carried up the inside and outside of the leg well above the knee, the short pieces of strapping are put round the leg from the ankle to below the knee: they should overlap each other. A knotted piece of cord is pa ed through the hole in the wood over a pulley at the foot of the bed. On the cord is hung a cream can containing shot according to the weight ordered. Usually from two to four lbs. for a child, and from five to ten lbs. for an adult—beginning with the le er weight and gradually increasing it. The foot of the bed should be slightly raised. The patient must be kept quite quiet. — s. 58 —