g. Cover with a towel or a
cover for the purpose. Never put the rubber near the skin, it may freeze
if so left. Besides, the cover absorbs the moisture that collects on the
outside as the ice melts.

_Cold compresses_ are a common remedy for headache. Old handkerchiefs
are excellent for this purpose. Fold in frayed edges, two or three
thicknesses will be heavy enough, and have two, large enough to cover
the forehead. Wring one out of ice water so that it will not drip, and
put on the forehead. Keep the other on a piece of ice and change the two
applications frequently. When applied to the neck a dry cloth should be
placed outside to protect the pillow or the patient's clothing. Cold
compresses for inflamed eyes should be of one thickness only, and a
little larger than the eye. Have a number and change very often. Use a
separate compress for each eye. If there is a discharge a compress
should not be used a second time. The discarded compresses should be
collected in a paper bag or wrapped in newspapers and burned.

When cold compresses are applied to the head there should be a hot water
bag at the feet.

_Gargles, sprays, and inhalations_ are often ordered for sore throats
and colds.

Salt or soda added to water in the proportion of a teaspoonful to a pint
makes an excellent gargle.

A very cold gargle or one as hot as can be held without burning is
better than a tepid one.

Do not go out in the cold air directly after using a hot gargle.

Use at least six separate mouthfuls each time you gargle, and hold long
enough at the back of the throat for the gargle to reach every part.

A spray should not be used for the nose without a special order from the
doctor. The liquid sometimes gets into the passage leading to the ear
and causes earache.

Always wipe the nozzle of the atomizer before using. It should be
cleaned after each use and boiled, if another patient is to use it.
Always boil the nozzle and clean out the bottle when the atomizer is to
be put away. Keep it in a box where dust will not reach it.

_Inhalations_ are useful to relieve difficult breathing and for loss of
voice or hoarseness. Fill a pitcher, bowl, or basin, two-thirds full of
boiling water. Wrap with a towel to prevent burning if it should touch a
patient. Usually drugs such as peppermint spirits, oil of eucalyptus, or
tincture of benzoin, in dose of a teaspoonful to the hot water contained
in the receptacle, is enough. If no drug is at hand,