Summary
Used in a mental hospital in Victoria, Australia circa 1912-1950. May have been used to deliver stillborn infants or when birth difficulties endangered the life of the mother.
Physical Description
Obstetrical forceps, possibly used in conjunction with craniotomy. A rounded tubular handle from the top of which 3 hooks protrude in a circular formation. They curve outward and in at the top with 2 sharp claws on the end of each. They can be withdrawn, halfway into the handle and folded inward. Originally the movement was operated by a rod now missing which ran down through the handle and out through a hole in the bottom.
More Information
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Collection Names
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Donation from Office of Psychiatric Services, May 1985
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Place & Date Used
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Overall Dimensions
14 cm (Length), 25 cm (Height)
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Dimensions
210 mm (Length), 50 mm (Width), 45 mm (Height)
Measurement From Conservation.
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References
oral history
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Keywords
Births, Pregnancy, Psychiatric Hospitals, Surgical Instruments, Making History - Psych Services
