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145
stand a far better chance of success if the women were impressed with the
advantage of having the progress of their babies closely watched for the
first month after they return home. This applies particularly to
primiparae.
In the report on the post-natal Clinic mention is made of the number
of patients suffering from anaemia and dental sepsis. It is a grave
disadvantage to have to begin a series of dental extractions, as well as
the other measures necessary to improve lactation, at a time when the
woman has barely recovered from her confinement and is anxious about
her baby. The value of completing dental treatment before delivery is
slow to gain acceptance.
The other function of the department is to deal with minor disorders
for which medical fees cannot be afforded and when journeys to and from
distant hospitals cannot be managed. The dressing of impetigo, the
treatment of otorrhoea and of chronic nasal discharge form the greater
part of the work.
There are 12 cots. For 20 weeks in the year six are reserved for
children admitted for the removal of tonsils and adenoids. For the rest
of the year the cots are all used for medical cases. During the summer
the wards are closed for four weeks when the staff takes its holiday.
Infants' Wards.