Doctor Norman Miles Guiou: Pioneering Blood Transfusions for Wounded Soldiers
Blood Transfusion Kit: Canadian War Museum 19801092-003
This portable transfusion kit belonged to Canadian Army Medical Corps doctor Norman Miles Guiou, a pioneer of blood transfusion during the First World War. Guiou’s simple techniques helped save the lives of wounded soldiers who otherwise would have died from blood loss and shock.
Guiou transfused blood directly from donors to wounded men using tubing or a syringe. This meant that the transfusion could take place at advanced dressing stations close to the front lines, allowing the injured to receive blood sooner and reducing their risk of dying on the way to specialized care units further behind the lines.
Guiou’s transfusions were not always successful, but they marked an important evolution in combat surgery.
Haemorrhage at the Outposts, Pamphlet by Norman M. Guiou: George Metcalf Archival Collection Canadian War Museum 20020045-2780 / 58C 2 11.11
Drawing of a Mobile Blood Transfusion Kit, by Dr. Guiou: George Metcalf Archival Collection Canadian War Museum 20030294-001 / 58A 1 117.1
5th Battalion — first aid being provided: George Metcalf Archival Collection Canadian War Museum 19920044-507
Canadian War Museum
The Canadian War Museum is Canada’s national museum of military history and one of the world’s most respected museums for the study and understanding of armed conflict.
The Museum traces its origins back to 1880, when it consisted primarily of a collection of militia artifacts. The Museum opened at its new location on the LeBreton Flats site in downtown Ottawa on May 8, 2005. Its opening not only marked the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe (V-E Day) but also the 125th anniversary of the Museum itself. Since its opening in 2005, the Museum has welcomed approximately 500,000 visitors every year.
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