James Simpson

Question 1

Doings of Simpson

Answer 1

• Discovered an anaesthetic which was quick, pain free and temporary - chloroform.
• Used mostly in childbirth and later surgery.

Question 2

Signigicance of Simpson

Answer 2

• Tackled the dangers of pain, shock and blood loss from surgery.
• Enabled longer and more complicated operations, reducing blood loss.
• Provided alternative to ether (too much could cause death; highly flammable) and nitrous oxide (analgesic but euphoric effects)
• Approved by queen - quietened opposition from church.
• Enabled pain-free birth and ability to deal with unexpected situations calmer.

Question 3

Insignificance of Simpson

Answer 3

• Opposed by church (still had some influence).
• Infection and blood loss were still a problem.

Question 4

Time of Simpson’s impact

Answer 4

1847 or early 1800s