The most anxious moments in nursing are certainly when the disease is at its height, but by far the most trying are, as a rule, during the time of convalescence. It is then that the greatest exercise of tact, discernment, self-control and patience on the part of the attendant are necessary.

Relapse, except in the germ diseases, is nearly always due to over-feeding, over-exertion, or nervous excitement.

The diet is a very important factor in the treatment of convalescents. Carry out the doctor's orders minutely regarding it. Have, so far as you can, things that you know the patient likes. If she expresses a preference for a certain dish have it if allowable, but as a rule it is not wise to consult her on the subject.

Always serve your patient's meals as daintily as possible ; have the tray covered with a spotless table napkin or tray cover; use the prettiest china available; even one bright flower with a little green is a great attraction. But above all see that the food is properly cooked and properly served; that all hot things are very hot, and cold ones really cold. More salt and less sugar will generally be wanted than when in health. Highly seasoned food is not advisable or often desired even by those who like it when well.

It is better to set before the invalid too little than too much, for it is easy to get more, and the sight of too much food on the tray is apt to imbue anyone whose appetite is poor with a dislike for it. Besides, as the digestive functions are weakened during and after illness, it is better for a time to serve food in smaller quantities and oftener; for instance, give an egg nog, milk punch, egg lemonade, egg albumen, or other light, easily digested drink between breakfast and the noonday meal, and again at three or four o'clock in the afternoon. A glass of hot milk given at bed-time will often induce sleep.

Keeping the patient amused is another important item in the care of the convalescent. A few visitors (provided they do not stay too long, talk too much, or give any worrying or disagreeable news) will often help to brighten up the patient. Playing cards or games, reading aloud to her, etc., will help to pass away the time and tire her less than talking.

When people have been ill for some time the muscles of the eyes are apt to be weak and will be easily strained, so they ought not to be allowed to read much themselves, especially while they are in the recumbent position.

Those who are strong and well little realize the exertion and excitement caused by the first sitting up, after being confined to the bed for some time.

The period is usually limited to half an hour the first day, gradually increasing the time as the patient can stand it. Do not wait for her to complain of fatigue; on showing the first signs of it she should be put to bed. Of course there are patients who think themselves a great deal worse than they really are, and who have to be encouraged to sit up longer than they think they can. At such times the pulse is a good guide.

Do not really dress the patient until she is well enough to walk around. Warm stockings, bed slippers, a warm wrapper and blankets are all that are necessary.

Amusing the Patient

Sitting Up for the First Time

Rubber Air Cushion

If the patient has been seriously ill she should not be allowed to stand or exert herself in the least when sitting up the first few times. If not too heavy she can be lifted by one person. The arms of the patient are locked about the neck of the attendant, who, placing one arm under the thigh, the other under the back, lifts the patient into the chair, the back of which is parallel with the foot of the bed.

When two people are required to do the lifting they should stand at the same side of the bed, placing the hands, one under the shoulders and buttocks, the other under the thighs and ankles, and lifting in unison, turn and seat the patient gently in the chair. The chair should be made comfortable with pillows, and the patient kept warm with blankets. When possible the chair should be carried carefully into an adjoining, well-aired room. The sick-room and bed should be well aired and made ready immediately for the patient's return, as it may be necessary for her to be put back to bed sooner than expected.

A Bedside Table Convenient for Serving Meals