879. Firmness.—Next in importance to good temper, are firmness and decision of character, the exercise of which is frequently, or rather absolutely indispensable, in the management of the sick.
880. Discrimination.—This talent enables the nurse to distinguish between circumstances which, to an unobserving person, appear nearly allied to each other, but where there is, in reality, an important difference. It is only or generally acquired by experience and observation, and requires good sense as its foundation and support. It is the faculty of right judgment.
881. Self-denial.—The business of taking care of the sick, if rightly attended to, requires a devotion to the interests and wants of the patient, which can only be given by the good nurse, who can willingly, and from her heart, practise the heavenly precepts of doing as she would be done by, and denying herself any indulgences that interfere with her duties.
882. General Intelligence.—Another important qualification of a good nurse, is such knowledge of reading, and subjects of general interest, as make her able to interest and amuse her patient during the weary hours of slow recovery, or desponding intervals of intermitting diseases.
883. Abstinence from improper habits.—The habit of using snuff in any manner—smoking—sipping intoxicating liquors—taking opium—or indulging in any improper and disagreeable habit of actions or expressions, should be carefully avoided by those who hold the responsible and important station of nurses of the sick.