, pulse and respiration.

How to prepare and serve simple, nourishing food for the sick.

How to feed a helpless person.

How to prepare and use simple remedies for slight ailments.

How to occupy and amuse the sick.

When helping about the sick, the Scout should wear a wash dress or an
apron which covers her dress. She should be very neat and clean. She
should wash her hands frequently, _always_ before her own meals, and
after coming into contact with the sick person and after handling
utensils, dishes, linen, etc., used in the sick room. Great cleanliness
is necessary not only for her own protection but to prevent illness
spreading.

She should move quickly and quietly, but without bustle or hurry, taking
care not to let things fall, not to bump against the furniture, not to
jar the bed, not to slam doors, in fact not to make any unnecessary
noises, as sick people are not only disturbed but may be made worse by
noises and confusion. If a door is squeaky the hinges should be oiled.
Too much talking, loud talking and whispering are to be avoided. Only
cheerful and pleasant subjects should be talked of, _never_ illnesses
either that of the patient nor of others.

The best nursing aims not only to bring relief and comfort to those
already sick, but to guard against _spreading_ sickness.

We know, now, that many diseases are spread by means of _germs_ which
are carried from person to person by various means, such as air, water,
milk, and other food; discharges from the mouth, nose, bowels, bladder,
wounds; clothing; the hands; the breath, and so forth.

It has been found that great heat, intense cold, sunshine and some
powerful drugs called disinfectants kill germs. Germs thrive and
multiply in dirt, dampness and darkness. That is why it is important to
have fresh air, sunshine and cleanliness in order to keep well, and to
help in curing those who get sick.

The Room, Its Order and Arrangement

The hangings and furniture of a sick room should be of a kind that can
be washed and easily kept clean. Plain wooden furniture is better than
upholstered furniture which collects and holds the dust. If there is a
rocking chair it should be for the use of the sick person only. Seeing
and hearing other people rock may be very disturbing.

If carpets are movable, so much the better, as they can be taken out to
be cleaned.

The room should be bright and attractive. Sick people like flowers and
pretty things, but the fl