PNEUMONIA 73 



The fact that the pneumococcus may be found in 

 the mouth or nasal passages of nearly all healthy 

 persons renders it an organism to be feared; al- 

 though the mode of dissemination is still a point in 

 doubt, and all authorities do not entirely agree as to 

 the dangers of infection, although many so-called 

 epidemics have occurred, yet there is enough evidence 

 to warrant careful measures in the nursing of pneu- 

 monia patients to protect others from the possibility 

 of contagion. 



All cloths used for handkerchiefs and mouth 

 sponges should be burned immediately; nightgowns 

 and bedding should be protected from mouth and 

 nasal discharges and should be frequently changed and 

 disinfected; the hands of both the patient and the 

 nurse should have the closest care; no delirious 

 pneumonia patient can properly use his handkerchief 

 nor sputum cup and will soil his hands constantly 

 with discharges from his mouth and nose, thus re- 

 quiring the most scrupulous care. 



Discharges lodging upon the floor, or bedside table, 

 or nurse's uniform should be wiped away at once with 

 cloths wet in a solution of bichloride of mercury 

 1 : 1000. No rugs or carpets should be allowed in the 

 sick room of a pneumonia patient. 



Immunity following pneumonia is of very short 



