Tray Decoration
For decoration for a tray nothing should be used besides pretty china and flowers. A slender glass or silver vase with a blossom or two, or a delicate fern with a white or pink flower, are always suitable. It is well to use ferns and other fresh green decorations liberally, especially in winter. Green is always grateful to the sight, and sometimes a single spray will give pleasure to an invalid for hours.
Violets, roses, orchids, and all flowers that are dainty in themselves, are always in good taste, but a very few or a single blossom is all that is allowable. A big bouquet on a tray or an invalid's table is as out of place as a whole roast or a whole pudding. Flowers with strong odors or primary colors should be avoided, such, for instance, as marigolds, fleur de lis, and dahlias. They are handsome in a garden or a hall, but not at the bedside.
Little attentions in the way of ornamentation, and thoughtfulness as to an invalid's meal, are deeply appreciated. They show that an effort has been made to please, and to many sick ones the feeling that they are a constant care to those about them is a very oppressive one. It should be the pleasure of a good nurse to dispel such thoughts. It is the duty of every nurse to do so.