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The Use of Tincture of Iodine in the Home

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Mar 25, 1915

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 92, No. 15.

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The Use of Tincture of Iodine in the Home

By E. DOLPHUS HAYSMER, M. D.

E. DOLPHUS HAYSMER, M. D.
TINCTURE of iodine is probably the most used drug in the world in “first aid to the injured” work, and is generally employed to paint the skin in order to sterilize it preparatory to operations. Its use has marked an important era in antiseptic surgery. It is, however, remarkable in how few homes this drug is to be found, and its common use is to paint inflammatory parts rather than to kill germs.
Germs cannot live in alcohol, and iodine is one of the greatest antiseptics. When these are combined, as in tincture of iodine, we have a most useful and powerful antiseptic which is easily and safely used.
All cuts and bruises should be thoroughly painted with iodine as soon as possible after the injury, and once a day until well. A dressing may or may not be applied after the painting, depending on the nature and extent of the injury. No matter how small the scratch or abrasion, this treatment should be used. In large wounds it is equally applicable, and should be applied before the physician arrives. Often the smallest injuries when improperly treated result in serious with inflammations, and at times even in blood poisoning. I have known of two cases of fatal blood poisoning occurring in the last three months from small wounds received while shaving.
Tincture of iodine should be kept in every home, and used whenever an injury is received. It is easily applied with a simple applicator made by twisting a small piece of cotton on the end of a toothpick. This can be dipped in the iodine, and the affected part painted.
Iodine will smart in most cases, but its great value in preventing infection will greatly outweigh any objections to its use. The too frequent use may result in blisters; this can be avoided by either using it less frequently or diluting it with an equal part of alcohol. If too much is applied, the excess may be removed by sponging with alcohol. It is well to remember that iodine stains can be removed with ammonia water.
Hastings, Nebr.