Publisher's Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1909 edition. Excerpt: ... FORMS OF MENTAL DISORDER. The following is the classification adopted: States of Insanity. A. Depression: Melancholia--simple, acute, chronic. B. Excitement and exaltation: Mania -- simple, acute, chronic; also recurrent forms and alternating insanity. C. Delirium. D. Stupor. E. Confusion. F. Chronic delusion: (a) Fixed; (b) progressive. G. Mental enfeeblement. Kinds or Varieties of Insanity, A. General paralysis. B. Insanity from brain lesion. C. epilepsy. D. alcohol. K. connected with childbirth. F. during adolescence. G. of old age. H. Idiocy and other forms of congenital defect. Examination of Patients. A few words are necessary as to getting at the mental condition of patients. Nurses are always in difficulties at first how to observe, and then how to describe, what they learn about those under their care. A table such as the following may be helpful, and assist in making a report if it should be required. 1. By Observation.--What can be seen and noted by the nurse: General appearance, attitude, tidiness, cleanliness. Facial expression. General health, colour, nutrition. Physical peculiarities. Actions, behaviour, conduct. 2. By Conversation.--A talk upon general topics will generally elicit a great deal respecting the-- Emotional state. Power of attention. Consciousness. Power of connected thought. By inquiry the state of the mind can be further investi-;ated in respect to the-- Memory. Presence of hallucinations, delusions, or obsessions. Difficulties in respect to self-control. Impulsive tendencies--suicidal, homicidal. 3. Letters written by the patient, when available, frequently xhibit want of self-control and defective judgment to a reater extent than the conversation..."