rs. It is
inexcusable even for members of the patient's family to discuss with one
another the patient's private concerns, or his queer or unreasonable or
annoying ways. During sickness the skeletons in most people's mental
closets walk forth, and anyone who misuses special opportunities to know
intimate affairs can only be classed with eavesdroppers and village
gossips.

EXERCISES

1. What are the essentials of a good sick room as to:

(_a_) Situation and exposure.
(_b_) Lighting and heating.
(_c_) Furnishing.
(_d_) Ventilation.

2. How may a sick room be ventilated without exposing the patient to
draughts?

3. How should the bed be placed in relation to doors, windows, and
walls?

4. How should a sick room be cleaned?

5. What in general are the duties of the attendant?

6. Make a plan of your own bedroom, and show what changes, if any, would
be desirable if it were to be used as a sick room.

FOR FURTHER READING

Notes on Nursing--Florence Nightingale, Pages 1-63, 84-105.

CHAPTER VI

BEDS AND BEDMAKING

The common saying that the best bed for an invalid is his own bed
contains an element of truth. Taking from a patient his own accustomed
bed, even when a better is substituted, sometimes disturbs him greatly
and makes him feel that he is indeed very ill. Nevertheless, a suitable
bed is essential to the proper care of a helpless person, and no patient
should continue to use an unsuitable one, unless his illness is slight
and also likely to be of very short duration.

Besides being comfortable, a bed suitable for the sick must be clean and
easy to keep in a sanitary condition. The springs should be firm, and
the mattress should be elastic and should give an even support without
lumps and hollows. The bed covers should be clean, light, and warm; the
pillows should be sufficient in number not only to make the head and
shoulders comfortable, but also any other part of the body in need of
support. Moreover, the bed should be so placed and of such a kind that
the work of caring for the patient may be rendered as easy for the
attendant as possible. In every household at least one bed suitable for
a sick person should be available in case of need.

BEDSTEADS.--Beds of white enameled iron, brass, or brass and iron
combined are most easily kept clean, and are the best in every way. The
frame should be strong enough to stand firmly, yet not so heavy that it
is hard to move. It should ha