Outside, the New Orleans day may be cloudless and sultry. But within a small room of Charity Hospital a cool, light mist may prevail.
The "climatic room," although still undergoing preliminary testing, is expected to become an efficient tool in determining optimum climates for patients with cardiovascular and associated diseases.
"For some people, as we know from experience, a little change can make a big difference," G. E. Burch, MD, told JAMAMedical News. "In heart disorders, climate may induce a stress that the patient might profitably escape."
The 10 × 22 foot chamber resembles a standard, two-patient hospital room. But the only window is a one-way glass for observation by investigators and a sealed double door is always kept closed. Even food and linens may be passed in through a chute.
By using a battery of devices located on the floor just above, Dr. Burch and N. P. De