ous effects that follow the bites of
insects.

A wound resulting from the bite of an animal (cat or dog), even though
slight, should receive more serious attention, and as soon as possible
after the occurrence. Such wounds should be cauterized, and for this
purpose pure carbolic, acid (undiluted with water) may be used. A wooden
toothpick is dipped into the acid and this is worked about in the wound.
The acid is then washed out with warm water. A deep wound from a rusty
nail or a thorn should be treated in the same manner and should be kept
open, not being allowed to heal at the surface first. If one has reason to
believe he has been bitten by a mad dog, the wound should be cauterized as
above, and a physician should be summoned at once. Deep wounds from
explosives, or other causes, should also receive the attention of the
physician. Many cases of lockjaw result every year from wounds inflicted
by the toy pistols, firecrackers, etc., used in our Fourth of July
celebrations. These are due to the embedding in the skin or flesh of small
solid particles on which are lockjaw germs. Wounds of this nature should,
of course, receive the attention of the physician.

*Care of the Nails.*--Relief from a blood blister under the nail is secured
by boring a small hole through the nail with the sharp point of a
sterilized penknife (page 38). This simple bit of surgery not only
relieves the pain, but is frequently the only means of saving the nail.
Ingrown toe nails are relieved by scraping a broad strip in the middle of
the nail until very thin. This relieves the pressure, preventing the sides
of the nail from being forced into the toe. While the finger nails should
be trimmed in a curve, corresponding to the end of the finger, it is
recommended that the toe nails be cut straight across (Fig. 124), as this
method diminishes the pressure from the shoe and keeps the nails from
ingrowing. Shoes that pinch the toes should, of course, not be worn (page
238).

[Fig. 124]

Fig. 124--Proper method of trimming nails of toes.

*Care of the Hair.*--Occasional washing of the hair is beneficial, but too
much wetting causes decay of the hair roots, which leads to its falling
out. The worst enemy of the hair is dandruff. A method of removing
dandruff which is highly recommended is that of rubbing olive oil into the
scalp and later of removing this with a cleansing shampoo. The olive oil
is placed