View report page

It is of importance that so soon as a diagnosis has
been made, that the patient should be acquainted
with the nature of his disease, so as to secure his
active co-operation in regard to precautions, as his
own welfare depends to a large measure upon his
intelligent carrying out of instructions. The majority
of cases of Phthisis recover when the disease is recognised
in its earliest stages, so that nothing is gained
by concealment.
Dr. Newsholme advises that when a notification of
a case of Phthisis has been received by the M.O.H. an
investigation should be made forthwith by a trained
health visitor, who would amongst other things
advise the patient (if remaining at home) on the
lines previously laid down, but care must be taken
not to interfere with the instructions already given by
the Doctor in attendance upon the patient. " Above
all the investigator must not pursue enquiries in such
a manner, or give information to others that may
prevent a consumptive patient from continuing to
earn his livelihood." Revisits should be made by the
Officer with a view to encourage the patient in
carrying out the necessary treatment and precautions
to prevent infection.
Action against Infection.
The most important measures are: —
(a) The prevention of indiscriminate expectoration
by the enforcement of Bye-laws and the
exhibition of warning notices.
(b) The gratuitous supply of pocket spit bottles.