A partial warm bath, such as the foot-bath, is of much service in
warding off many complaints. If a child get the feet wet, plunging them
into warm water will often prevent any ill consequences; and even when
the first chill and slight shiverings which usher in colds, fevers, and
other inflammatory complaints, have been complained of, the disease may
be cut short by the use of a foot-bath, continued till free
perspiration occurs.
RULES FOR THE USE OF THE WARM BATH.
TEMPERATURE OF THE WATER.--When the warm bath is used as a measure of
hygeiene, as a general rule, any degree of temperature may be chosen
between 92 degrees and 98 degrees, which appears to be most agreeable
to the child; but on no account must 98 degrees be exceeded. When
ordered as a remedial measure, the temperature will of course be fixed
by the medical attendant.
The same degree of temperature must be kept up during the whole period
of immersion. For this purpose the thermometer must be kept in the
bath, and additions of warm water made as the temperature is found to
decrease. These additions of warm water, however, must be regulated by
the indications of the thermometer, and not by the feelings of the
child.
PERIOD OF REMAINING IN THE BATH.--This must depend upon circumstances.
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