brought directly into them, but in the
Field hospitals, in face of the rush with which the first dressings have
to be done, I think it is seldom applicable, and consider the
interference with the wound as rather likely to increase the danger of
infection than to decrease it.

Dressings should not be too frequent; two should suffice for simple
wounds with type forms of entry and exit; there is little discharge and
usually no bleeding: hence the more the dry scab form of healing can be
simulated the better. When a dressing needs changing from fouling of its
outer parts, it is preferable to cut round the adherent part of the deep
layers and apply some fresh gauze over the central scab rather than to
remove it. One point should be kept in mind: the first dressing in the
Field hospital seals the fate of the wound as to the chances of primary
union, and hence too much care is impossible with it.

Operations in the Field hospitals were proportionately not numerous, and
they should be kept down in number, as far as possible. At the same time
such operations as are necessary are mostly of capital importance, such
as the treatment of fractures of the skull, abdominal section, the
ligature of arteries, and amputations. Of these only the first and last
classes occur with any degree of frequency. In order to be prepared for
these a stock of filtered water which has been boiled, and some special
sterilised sponges, should be at hand if possible, also some small
towels which can be wrung out in antiseptic lotion. If sterilised
sponges are not to be had, wool pads wrung out in carbolic lotion must
be substituted.

Primary amputations bore transport badly. I saw few sent down from the
front within a few days of their performance in which the flaps did not
slough, or worse consequences ensue. On the other hand, if the first
fortnight could be tided over at the front, they did well enough. The
head cases on the other hand bore movement fairly well, provided only
that asepsis was ensured.

Retained bullets are rarely suitable for removal in the rush of the
first work of a Field hospital after an engagement. A short delay is of
no importance, and ensures their being removed safely if necessary. With
regard to the broad question of the advisability of removing them at
all, it may be laid down that they should not be interfered with unless
some obvious reason exists. Those most commonly calling for removal are
as follows: 1. Bullets lying