sheet under the patient, roll
it on both sides close to the body and draw him gently over by means of
this sheet, moving his shoulders at the same time. If the beds are
unequal in height, use firm pillows or folded blankets to make an
inclined plane.

[Illustration: FIG. 15.--CHANGING A PATIENT FROM ONE BED TO ANOTHER.
(_From Pope "Home Care of the Sick," American School of Home Economics,
Chicago._)]

If the beds differ greatly in height and indeed in most cases, it is
better to carry the patient from one bed to the other. At least two
people are needed; one alone should never attempt to carry anyone
heavier than a small child. One method for lifting is as follows: Let
two bearers, _A_ and _B_ stand on the same side of the bed. If the
patient is to be moved into the right side of the fresh bed let both
bearers stand on the right side of the occupied bed; if he is to go into
the left side of the fresh bed, let them both stand on the left side of
the occupied bed. Let _A_ place one arm under the patient's shoulders
and her other under the small of his back, while _B_ places one arm
under his hips and the other just below his knees. Draw the patient to
the edge of the bed, instruct him to place his arms about the shoulders
of _A_ and to hold the body rigid, and then lift together at a given
signal, keeping his weight well up on the chests of the bearers.

Whenever a patient must be turned, lifted, carried, or moved in any way,
let him know beforehand just what you intend to do so that he may not be
startled, and also that he may cooperate if possible. Grasp him firmly
but gently, avoid pinching the skin, and move him steadily and
smoothly, avoiding jerks and false starts. Do not attempt alone more
than your strength is amply sufficient to accomplish, and endeavor at
all times to handle the sick with the utmost gentleness and
consideration.

EXERCISES

1. Describe a bedstead and mattress suitable for a sick person's use,
and tell why they are to be preferred.

2. How should the bedstead be cared for? the mattress? the pillows?

3. How should a mattress and pillows be protected?

4. Describe in detail the bed covers that are desirable for use in
sickness.

5. Name the results that a good method of bedmaking aims to secure.

6. Describe the method of making an unoccupied bed.

7. How should one change the pillows of a helpless patient?

8. Describe the way in which you would lift and turn a patient in bed.