Testing an analgesic inhaler, 1955
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Testing an analgesic inhaler, 1955
Testing an analgesic inhaler. This inhaler (lower right) contained trichloroethylene, an analgesic commonly used by midwives assisting in childbirth. Inhalers like this were analysed by researchers to ensure that when the trichloroethylene liquid evaporated into gas, it was of the correct concentration to relieve pain. If the gas was too concentrated, it could lead to unconsciousness and death. Because of this risk, trichloroethylene was withdrawn from medical practices and replaced by methyl chloroform in 1968. Photographed at the National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, UK, in 1955
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6419835
© NATIONAL PHYSICAL LABORATORY CROWN COPYRIGHT/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1950s 1955 Anaesthetic Analgesic Analysing Analysis Anesthetic Child Birth Concentration Historical Image History Of Science Inhaler Labour National Physical Laboratory Pain Killer Pain Relief Researcher Researching Scientist Teddington Test Testing Thirties Twenties Health Care Laboratory Mono Chrome
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the year 1955, where a groundbreaking test was being conducted on an analgesic inhaler. The inhaler, located in the lower right corner of the image, contained trichloroethylene, a commonly used pain reliever during childbirth by midwives. Researchers at the National Physical Laboratory in Teddington, UK meticulously analyzed these inhalers to ensure that when the trichloroethylene liquid transformed into gas, it maintained the correct concentration for effective pain relief. However, this process came with great risks as an excessive concentration could lead to unconsciousness and even death. Due to these potential dangers associated with trichloroethylene usage, medical practices decided to withdraw its use in 1968 and replace it with methyl chloroform. This significant shift marked a turning point in pain management during labor. The photograph captures a female scientist engrossed in her research work within the laboratory setting. It serves as a powerful reminder of the dedication and commitment put forth by researchers throughout history to advance medicine and improve healthcare outcomes. This historical image not only sheds light on past scientific endeavors but also highlights how far we have come in terms of understanding pain relief techniques. It stands as a testament to our continuous pursuit of safer alternatives for alleviating discomfort while emphasizing the importance of thorough analysis and testing within medical practices.
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