Every morning, unless the doctor orders otherwise, thoroughly wash the patient all over. This will improve the circulation and help him feel better. It will also remove any secretions that may have accumulated on the skin during the night.

If you are right-handed, stand at the patient's right side. Place the basin of water and the soap on a small table to your right. Take the towel and spread it under the part you are about to wash, to catch any drops of water that may escape from your wash-cloth. Now, begin by bathing the face, ears, and neck. Then do the arms, chest, hands, abdomen, back, legs, thighs , and the genital areas. Change the water several times during the bath. Wash each part thoroughly and then dry with the towel. To keep the patient warm, keep rest of his body covered as much as possible. To prevent irritation and give a pleasant feel, apply a little plain talcum powder.

Brush and comb the patient's hair each morning. Note the condition of the scalp. You can even apply some commercial hair tonic to give that feeling of freshness. If shaving is required, allow him to do it himself, or hire a barber.

Appearance means so much, especially if the patient is a lady. Encourage her with trendy bed covers and even with some good music.

Nursing equipment come in a variety of models and are sometimes prohibitively priced. However there a few items you can make to assist the patient in your house. Here are a few suggestions:

• Bedside table: Select a large box or paper carton. Cover it with suitable coloured paper or other material that will look attractive and place it near the bed.
• Bed-table: This is a very useful while having food, and also when the patient can sit up and take care of himself. You can secure an old card-table, saw off the legs, and be placed across the bed to hold the patient's tray while he is eating. If you do not have a card table, try making a suitable bed-table from a large carton. Cut out parts of three sides so that it forms a table about twelve inches high. This can then be placed on the bed above the patient's knees to hold his tray. Another simple method is to stretch an ironing board across chairs placed on either side of the bed. This will do well during a short illness.
• Wedge-shaped cushions: They are very useful in propping a patient up in a bed. Or else, cut a large cardboard carton diagonally across, placing this behind the patient for support.
• Paper bag: Waste materials, like tissue handkerchiefs, are often a problem to the patient. Pin a medium sized paper bag in a handy place beside the bed, where he can dispose of these tissues easily, without contaminating himself or the bed.

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