Hygiene
131
member of the family. The reason that fevers prevail in families and
expose the attendants, is because the sick-room is not kept free from
poisonous infection, by cleanliness and proper ventilation.—
How to
Live, 57
.
658. Many suffer decayed vegetable matter to remain about their
premises. They are not awake to the influence of these things. There
is constantly arising from these decaying substances an effluvium that
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is poisoning the air; by inhaling the impure air, the blood is poisoned,
the lungs become affected, and the whole system is diseased. Disease
of almost every description will be caused by inhaling the atmosphere
affected by these decaying substances.—
How to Live, 61
.
Quiet
659. All unnecessary noise and excitement should be avoided
in the sick-room, and the whole house should be kept as quiet as
possible. Ignorance, forgetfulness, and recklessness have caused the
death of many who might have lived had they received proper care
from judicious, thoughtful attendants. The doors should be opened
and shut with great care, and the attendants should be unhurried, calm,
and self-possessed.—
How to Live, 59
.
660. Much harm has resulted to the sick from the universal custom
of having watchers at night. In critical cases this may be necessary;
but it is often the case that more harm than good is done the sick by
this practise.... Even one watcher will make more or less stir, which
disturbs the sick. But where there are two, they often converse together,
sometimes aloud, but more frequently in whispered tones, which is far
more trying and exciting to the nerves of the sick than talking aloud....
Attendants upon the sick should, if possible, leave them to quiet and
rest through the night, while they occupy a room adjoining.... The
sick as a general thing are taxed with too many visitors and callers,
who chat with them, and weary them by introducing different topics
of conversation, when they need quiet and undisturbed rest.... It is
a mistaken kindness that leads so many, out of courtesy, to visit the
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sick. Often have they spent a sleepless, suffering night after receiving
visitors. They have been more or less excited, and the reaction has
been too great for their already debilitated energies, and as the result
of these fashionable calls, they have been brought into very dangerous