A text-book on hygiene and pediatrics from a chiropractic standpoint

by J. H. Craven

Need for Conserving Energy

Reference has already been made to the fact that adaptation to environment requires an expenditure of energy in case of incoördination. When an individual is sick there is need for conservation of energy to the fullest degree. At this time there must be no unnecessary drain upon the body in order that all forces may be centered upon the one thing—restoration. This leads us to a consideration of removing every unnecessary demand upon Innate for expenditure of energy so that all the forces may be utilized in the process of restoration.

There are a number of points to be considered in the care of the sick room where the patient is confined to his bed. There should be an even temperature maintained at all times and great care taken that the room is never overheated. The degrees at which temperature is to be maintained will be governed somewhat by the character of the incoördination. In conditions involving the respiratory tract the room may be kept quite cold. The temperature of the sick room may vary from 50° F. to 70° F. according to the incoördination.

One of the most important features in the sick room is proper ventilation and the elimination of dust and odors. The patient at all times should be provided with an abundant supply of pure air free from dust and other impurities. The room should be so ventilated as to eliminate objectionable drafts. This may be accomplished by placing screens in front of open windows or stretching a gauze over the opening in the window which will admit the air but not rapid enough to produce a draft.

In some cases of incoördinations involving the eyes it is advisable to maintain a subdued light in the room. This may be obtained during the day by drawing the shade part way down and during the night by placing shades over the lamps or electric lights. If the eyes are very sensitive to light an unnecessary adaptation may thus be avoided, thus enabling Innate to use her forces in a more desirable way.

Changing Sheets.

In severe cases some attention should be given to the furniture and hangings, not so much because of any special benefit to the patient, but for the convenience of the attendants and to insure a better sanitary condition by eliminating everything that would tend to catch dust and dirt and matter given off into the breathing zone.

Lifting Patient with Draw Sheet.