obstetrical patients were cared for by "Monthly Nurses," so called
because they remained one month with their patients. It is, likewise,
customary to keep the trained nurse four weeks after the birth; but
whenever possible it would be well to retain her six weeks, since
this period elapses before the mother has entirely regained her
normal physical condition. Those who can afford to keep a trained
nurse six months or a year are exceptional, but very fortunate.

Someone may feel that the suggestions I have made are not suitable to
her case. Very likely they may not be; to cover all the possibilities
could scarcely be expected, for every case has its problems and
peculiarities. After consultation with her physician each patient
will decide what is particularly advisable for her. Nevertheless, I
would emphasize the importance of securing a competent nurse and
retaining her for at least four weeks. Even with those who must guard
their expense account the truest economy will lie in such a course.
Whenever lack of resources seems likely to prevent this arrangement,
the patient who is looking to her best interests should enter a
hospital where excellent care can be provided at a cost within her
means.

DESIRABLE QUALITIES IN THE NURSE.--It is rarely advisable to select
as nurse a member of the family or an intimate friend. Some of the
motives governing such a course--sentiment, mutual devotion, and the
desire to be humored--are inconsistent with the best kind of nursing.
If the nurse knows the patient intimately, undue anxiety may
interfere with her judgment; thoroughness in routine duties may be
hindered by mistaken consideration for the patient; and in an
emergency sympathy rather than reason may guide her. A successful
nurse must satisfy at least two requirements; she must be capable