On reading a recent article in The Journal I was reminded of a simple appliance which can be used to hold any kind of an anesthetic mask in place. I make no claim for originality, but do not remember to have seen it described.
On each side of the center of the oval base wire of say the ordinary Esmarch mask, loop two or three small rubber bands, end to end, and pass the last ones around the patient's ears. The tension should be slight—just enough to keep the mask in place. The curved handle is better turned toward the chin, then the mask can be raised like a trap door to regulate the air supply or to allow access to the mouth. With a struggling patient the advantages are obvious and it can be removed instantly, when desired, by a simple pull.
The Best Bovine Wet Nurse.
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