Dear Readers: Today’s SOUND OFF is about prescription labeling. — Heloise

“Dear Heloise: Why can’t pharmacies label a prescription bottle with more information? My mother’s bottle of pills said, ‘Take one a day,’ but Mom didn’t know if that meant with meals or before meals. The label also should tell what ailment the medication is for. This is especially important if the person is taking several medications.

“In an emergency room setting, the nurse often asks what medication you’re on and what it’s prescribed for, but many elderly patients get confused and don’t know why they’re taking a certain pill. Yes, it will take a couple of minutes to add these things to a label, but it is important for a patient to take the medication properly. Otherwise, what’s the point of taking any medication if it’s not taken correctly?” — Leslie B. in Houston

FAST FACTS

Dear Readers: Here are some hints for storing stuffed animals:

* In a large laundry hamper.

* Use fabric or netting to make a hammock for them.

* In a wicker basket.

* In a bench with hidden storage under the seat.

— Heloise

STAMP OF APPROVAL

Dear Heloise: Recently, I was homebound with a broken ankle and tibia. During my recuperation, I received over 70 get-well cards. One of my friends enclosed a book of postage stamps in her get-well card. Because I wrote a lot of letters, this was the best thing I could have received. I currently have gone through six books of stamps writing to friends and family.

Anyway, my helpful hint: When sending a get-well card, enclose a book of postage stamps. It is a thoughtful gift. — Chick J., Littleton, N.H.

HOW DO I LEAVE?

Dear Heloise: I want to quit my current job, but I also want to leave on good terms. How can I say goodbye and not offend my boss? — Peggy in Massachusetts

Peggy, be sure to give a two-week notice that you are leaving. Speak to your boss first before telling anyone else that you’re leaving. Offer to train the person who is replacing you. Thank your boss for the opportunity of working there. It’s best to leave on good terms with your boss and former co-workers. — Heloise

GETTING A GRIP

Dear Heloise: I use clawlike hair clips for my hair, but when I’m tired of them or they lose a prong, I use them to secure a vine to a stake or to clip a plant to a trellis. I also use chopsticks to stake plants because they are cheap and readily available after dinner in a Chinese restaurant. — Maddie W., Penn Hills, Pa.

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Hints from Heloise run occasionally in Lifestyles. Readers may send a hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE, or email: Heloise@Heloise.com. Letters won’t be answered personally.