The Effect of Shower/Bath Frequency on the Health and Operational Effectiveness of Soldiers in a Field Setting: A Historical Review.
Abstract
The significance of the shower/bath regime in a military setting has been largely ignored. when health-related problems arose due to lack of hygiene, simple symptomatic treatment was considered adequate if the patient did not return. In more serious cases all necessary care was administered to return the soldier to the battlefield, but there was no strong attempt to address the issue as a medical concern. The lack of follow-up ultimately led to a health care nightmare in Vietnam, as otherwise healthy soldiers were hospitalized. This study examines the medical practices and attitudes involved from the historical point of view up to the present time. The various theaters of operation are discussed, and the various procedures employed to eliminate the problem are evaluated. It is the author's view that far too little has been done to address the question of personal hygiene as a medical issue and that significant in-depth research is called for. Finally, a list of recommended hygienic practices is provided
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA303904
Entities
People
- John Troychock
Organizations
- United States Army Biological Warfare Laboratories