Page:The Girl Who Earns Her Own Living (1909).djvu/64

 Many girls ask what is expected of a probationer in the way of actual work. During the period of probation will they be given a fair test of their ability?

The following program of the first eight weeks' work laid out for probationers in a New England hospital will convey some idea of the scope and nature of the work:

"Hospital etiquette and rules, nurses' ethics; washing, nourishment dishes, care of refrigerators, gas-stoves, cupboards, trays, serving meals, nourishment; care of lavatory and utensils in lavatory; bed-making; bed bath; patients' morning and evening toilets; admitting stretcher cases, undressing patients, entrance bath, listing and care of clothing and valuables; filling and applying ice-caps, hot-water bags; care of linen press; washing hair, care of back, mouth, teeth, etc.; feeding helpless patients; taking and recording temperatures, pulse and respiration; mustard plasters, poultices, etc.; giving of medicines; special class instruction in printing, charting and diets."

Once you have proven your worth as a probationer, and are accepted as a student nurse, you virtually turn yourself and your services over to a hospital for a term varying from two to three years. During that time you will be provided with lodging, food and care in case of illness. Hither your uniforms, laundry and