Recruit undergoing heart tests, WW1

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Recruit undergoing heart tests, WW1

Testing a new recruit whose heart conditions the Army authorities are doubtful about. Rather worryingly, the photograph shows the man sitting with one bare foot and both hands in separate basins of water. Wires lead from the basins to the electrical apparatus which records the electronic charges which take place in the heart with each beat. These are shown on a moving sensitised film. Thank goodness for modern-day ECG equipment! Date: 1916

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Media ID 14140426

© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans

Apparatus Charges Check Electrical Electronic Examination Fitness Health Heart Joining Rate Recruit Recruitment Recruits Test Testing Tests

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Art > Film

> Historic > World War I and II > Military equipment

EDITORS COMMENTS
In the midst of the chaotic and intense recruitment process for the British Army during World War I, potential recruits underwent rigorous medical examinations to ensure their fitness for duty. This photograph, taken in 1916, captures a moment during a heart test for a recruit whose condition raised doubts among Army authorities. The man is seen sitting calmly with one bare foot and both hands submerged in separate basins of water. Wires from the basins connect to an electrical apparatus, which records the electronic charges that take place in the heart with each beat. These charges are displayed on a moving sensitised film, providing valuable data for assessing the recruit's heart rate and overall cardiac health. The use of such advanced medical technology during this era was remarkable, as it allowed for more accurate and efficient diagnosis of heart conditions. Today, we take for granted the widespread availability and ease of use of Electrocardiogram (ECG) equipment. However, during the First World War, such tests were a crucial step in ensuring the health and wellbeing of soldiers, who faced the physical and emotional challenges of combat. This historical image serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of medical assessments in military recruitment and the advancements in medical technology over the past century.

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