What It Was Like to Be In an Iron Lung

The transcript explores the history and impact of polio and the iron lung, a medical device used to help patients breathe. It covers the development of the iron lung, its use in treating polio victims, and the experiences of those who lived in it. The text also discusses improvements to the device, legal battles over its design, and the social and economic implications of its use. Technological advances eventually led to a decline in the use of iron lungs as more efficient treatments became available.

What was one of the severe treatments for polio before the vaccine was discovered?

• Iron Lung

• Blood Transfusion

• Chemotherapy

• Radiation Therapy

Who developed the polio vaccine in the 1950s?

• Edward Jenner

• Louis Pasteur

• Jonas Salk

• Albert Sabin

What was the primary function of the iron lung?

• To cure polio

• To assist with breathing

• To provide nutrition

• To improve mobility

How did John Emerson improve the iron lung?

• By making it more expensive

• By adding a radio

• By making it lighter and adding windows

• By increasing its size

What organization helped make the iron lung accessible to polio patients?

• World Health Organization

• Red Cross

• UNICEF

• March of Dimes

What was a common challenge for those living in an iron lung?

• Traveling long distances

• Communicating with others

• Finding a place to sleep

• Performing basic daily activities

How did some iron lung users adapt to their situation?

• By learning to walk again

• By using mirrors and sticks for daily tasks

• By inventing new machines

• By moving to warmer climates

What technological advancement reduced the need for iron lungs?

• Discovery of X-rays

• Introduction of positive pressure ventilators

• Development of antibiotics

• Invention of the stethoscope

By 2017, how many people were estimated to still use iron lungs?

• Over 1000

• About 100

• As few as 3

• None

What was a significant factor in the decline of iron lung usage?

• Increased cost

• Polio vaccine development

• Lack of electricity

• New dietary guidelines