Historical information

This Anaesthetic Mask 'Schimmelbusch' mask was used to deliver chloroform or ether as an anaesthetic. When this mask was in use most doctors would have delivered the anaesthetic themselves. During the 1940s and 1950s, some nurses may have played an active role in the delivery of anaesthetics, particularly in remote areas and during wartime or doctor shortages.
This medical / hospital equipment was the latest available in the 1950s when the Tawonga District General Hospital was built specifically for the increase in population due to the Kiewa Hydro Scheme.

Significance

Historical: Shows the development of scientific hospital equipment. Provenance: Used in the Tawonga District General Hospital which was remote and therefore required good equipment.
Good condition and good interpretation capacity.

Physical description

Metal egg shaped frame with metal pieces crossing longitudinally and across with attached moveable metal piece that holds cloth in when closed and fits into open hollow egg shaped frame. At one end is a flat metal piece that would rest on the forehead.
Usually used for children. To add cloth (gauze or muslin) with anaesthetic (chloroform or ether) open the mask and place the cloth onto the frame. It clipped on and the fluid then dripped onto the cloth.

Inscriptions & markings

CHIRON GERMANY between handle and oval.