ld
be wrapped in a piece of soft flannel. A cradle used for the protection
of the abdomen should extend a little beyond the body on each side.

[Illustration: FIG. 19.--ADJUSTABLE BED REST.]

Adjustable tables are convenient for patients who are able to sit up in
bed. These tables are supported on one side only so that they may extend
over the bed. Another kind of bedside table has short legs and stands
directly on the bed. Such a table can easily be made at home from a wide
board with supports six or eight inches high nailed to each end. A lap
board supported by heavy books may serve for temporary use. Indeed,
home-made substitutes are often as good as expensive apparatus or even
better. If sick-room appliances must be bought, it is well to remember
that simple standard designs are best. Complicated apparatus is soon out
of order, and is generally a trial both to the patient and to those who
must adjust it. Persons taking care of chronic patients may often obtain
valuable suggestions in regard to appliances by consulting a visiting
nurse or the superintendent of the local hospital.

[Illustration: FIG. 20.--ADJUSTABLE TABLE.]

BEDPANS are utensils to receive bowel and bladder discharges of patients
lying in bed. Enamel bedpans are better than porcelain, although more
expensive. The shape known as the "Perfection" is best for general use.
A "slipper" bedpan, although harder to clean and ordinarily less
comfortable, may be preferable if it is especially difficult or
undesirable to raise the patient. The square or douche pan is preferred
by some people, and is especially useful when the quantity of discharge
is large, as after an injection.

When a patient asks for the bedpan it should be brought if possible
without a moment's delay, not only because no other form of neglect
makes a patient realize her helplessness more acutely, but also because
the desire to use it often passes quickly and delay may encourage the
habit of constipation. If the patient does not ask for the bedpan, the
attendant should offer it at suitable times. Bedpans should be warmed
before use. An easy way to warm one is to let hot water run over it; the
outside should afterward be dried.

To place the bedpan, first flex the patient's knees and push the night
gown up; place one hand under the patient's hips, raise them slightly,
and with the other hand slip the pan into place. If the patient is
entirely helpless two persons are needed to lift her