Semmelweiss

WHo was Semmelweiss?

Hungarian doctor working in Vienna in 1840's.

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What was he worried about?

The high death rate of women from puerperal fever- an infection post child birth.

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WHat was commonly believed by doctors at this time?

It was believed that the spread of miasmas (bad air) caused the disease that was killing so many in hospital wards.

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What did Semmelweiss suggest in 1847

He suggested that it was the doctors who were spreading the disease. (Two wards)

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What steps did Semmelweiss take to stop the disease from spreading?

Ordered all doctors to wash hands (without permission of superior) in chloride of lime before examine patients.

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Did other doctors except method?

Despite deaths falling instnatly from 10% to 3%, he couldn't explain why and he was asked to leave in disgrace at end of contract.

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Other cards in this set

What was he worried about?

The high death rate of women from puerperal fever- an infection post child birth.

WHat was commonly believed by doctors at this time?

What did Semmelweiss suggest in 1847

What steps did Semmelweiss take to stop the disease from spreading?

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