A surprise will often rouse a flagging
appetite. Be ready, too, to have your best attempts rejected. The article
disliked one day may be just what is wanted the next. Never let food stand
in a sick-room,--for it becomes hateful to a sensitive patient,--and have
every thing as daintily clean as possible. Remember, too, that gelatine is
not nourishing, and do not be satisfied to feed a patient on jellies.
Bread from any brown flour will be more nourishing than wheat. Corn meal
is especially valuable for thin, chilly invalids, as it contains so much
heat. In severe sickness a glass tube is very useful for feeding gruels
and drinks, and little white china boats with spouts are also good. A
wooden tray with legs six or seven inches high, to stand on the bed, is
very convenient for serving meals. Let ventilation, sunshine, and absolute
cleanliness rule in the sick-room. Never raise a dust, but wipe the carpet
with a damp cloth, and pick up bits as needed. Never let lamp or sun light
shine directly in the eyes, and, when the patient shows desire to sleep,
darken the room a little. Never whisper, nor wear rustling dresses, nor
become irritated at exactions, but keep a cheerful countenance, which
helps often far more than drugs. Experience must teach the rest.
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