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47
OPHTHALMIA NEONATORUM.
" Ophthalmia Neonatorum" means literally " inflammatory eye-disease of
the new-born." The disease usually commences when (I.) Doctor, (II.) Midwife,
or (III.) Professional Assistant is in attendance on the mother, and
therefore one of these who is in attendance must be the first to observe any
inflammation of the eyes.
(I.) Duly of Medical Practitioners.
It is the duty of a medical attendant to forthwith certify to the Medical
Officer of Health any case of Ophthalmia Neonatorum as soon as he becomes
aware of it in accordance with Section 55 of the Public Health (London)
Act, 1891.
(II.) Duties of Midwives in regard to Ophthalmia Neonatorum.
Rulks
Framed by the Central Midwives' Board under Section 3 (1) of the
Midwives Act, 1902 (2 Edw. 7, c. 17).
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E. Regulating, supervising, and restricting within due limits the practice
of midwives.
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14. As soon as the child's head is born, and if possible before the eyes are
opened, its eyelids should be carefully cleanted.
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18. In all cases of abortion, of illness of the patient or child, or of any
abnormality occurring during pregnancy, labour, or lying-in, a midwife
must explain that the case is one in which the attendance of a
registered medical practitioner is required, and must hand to the
husband or nearest relative or friend present the form of sending for
medical help [see Rule 21 (a) ], properly filled up and signed by
her, in order that this may be immediately forwarded to the medical
practitioner. If for any reason the services of a registered medical
practitioner be not available, a midwife must, if the case be one of
emergency, remain with the patient and do her best for her until the
registered medical practitioner arrives, or until the emergency is over.
After having complied with the Rule as to the summoning of
medical assistance, the midwife will not incur any legal liability
by remaining on duty and doing her best for her patient.
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19. The foregoing rule shall apply :—
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(5) In the case of the child, when there is any abnormality or
complication, such as—
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