or more inches, since the solution
is more completely absorbed if given high up in the bowel. The bag
containing the solution should be held only a few inches higher than
the rectum, thus allowing only a small stream to pass in and allowing
an air space above the stream for the passage of gas which may be
accumulated in the upper part of the rectum. The tube should be
allowed to remain in the rectum for fifteen or twenty minutes, then
very gently withdrawn to prevent the liquid from being rejected. A pad
of gauze may be pressed against the anus to assist the patient in
retaining the enema. It is well to divert the attention of the patient
also, to further assist her in retaining the liquid.

~Duration of Rectal Feeding.~--Rectal feeding cannot be substituted
for a great length of time, first, because the patient cannot absorb
sufficient nourishment in this way to fully cover the body
requirements, and, second, because the rectum becomes more or less
sensitive and will reject the liquid before it has an opportunity to
be absorbed. From three to four nutrient enemas a day is about the
limit for the average patient. Between the nutrient enemas it is
advisable to give one of saline solution.

The following regime is practiced during the "Total Abstinence Period"
in the treatment of gastric ulcer: 7 A.M., cleansing enema; 8 A.M.,
nutrient enema; 1 P.M., nutrient enema; 3 P.M., saline enema; 6 P.M.,
nutrient enema. One saline and one nutrient enema may be given during
the night if the patient is very weak. She should not be wakened,
however, to be given the enema.

~Feeding by Inunction.~--This method consists in the rubbing into the
body of certain nutrient oils, such as olive oil, cocoanut oil, cocoa
butter, etc. It is of little value, but is occasionally resorted to
with very much emaciated and underfed infants, when digestional
disorders make it impossible to introduce enough food by mouth to
cover the needs of the body.

SPECIAL DIETS

There are a number of diets formulated to meet the various normal and
abnormal conditions. In hospitals these are classified as follows, for
the convenience of both nurse and doctor:

~House Diet.~--That which is served to the hospital staff, the nurses,
and those patients not requiring special diets.

~Liquid or Fluid Diet.~--Consisting of milk, nutrient and other
palatable beverages, broths, and thin gruels.

~Light, Semi-solid or Convalescent Diet.~--Composed of thick or cre