or lying still, breathes from twelve to twenty times per minute,
and when moving about 24 times. We all know that quick moving makes
quick breathing.

Respiration above 40 or below 8 is a danger sign. If the respiration is
very fast, or difficult, or wheezy, or in any way very unusual, we can
tell it at a glance. People who are breathing hard are frequently
relieved by being propped up in bed.

_To count the respiration._ It is better to do this without the person's
knowledge. It may be counted by watching the rise and fall of the chest
or of the shoulders. Another way is to hold the person's hand as though
taking the pulse, having her rest her hand and forearm lightly on the
chest and count the rise and fall.

Dishes

Dishes used by patients with any of the contagious diseases, and this
includes colds and sore throats, should be kept separate, and washed
separately from the family dishes. They should be scalded after washing
and have special dish cloths. Using separate utensils, and a separate
room for the sick person are two of the surest ways to prevent the
spread of the disease.

In such diseases as measles, scarlet fever, colds, mumps, influenza,
dishes should be boiled every day. Put them in a large kettle in cold
water and let them come to a boil. Even the thinnest glass will not
break if treated in this way. Let the dishes stay in the water until
cool enough to handle.

Dish cloths and dish mops should be thoroughly washed in good hot water
and soap, and put in the sun to dry. They should be boiled regularly.

If it is necessary to disinfect linen put it all in a bag and leave in
cold water to soak for some hours before putting it on to boil. Put a
little washing soda in the water. After boiling hard for fifteen or
twenty minutes it may be washed with the other garments.

Stains should be washed out before putting linen in the wash.

Utensils and Their Care

_All utensils should be kept clean and ready for instant use._ The
bedpan should always be warmed before being used. Running warm water in
and on it is usually the easiest way to do this. It should be thoroughly
dried on the outside so that it will not wet the bed. It is a good plan
to have a piece of rubber sheet or several thicknesses of old newspapers
covered with a bath towel to put under the bedpan in bed. When carrying
away, keep covered. Use cold water first, and after washing with soapy
water, rinse and dry before putting away.

Bas