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of X-ray examination, Tuberculin Test, etc., in addition to the
ordinary Clinical Examination. The "following up" of "doubtful"
cases, and indeed of all patients is diligently pursued by the Nursing
Staff, a diary being kept to ensure regular attendance.
Diagnosis.—In connection with the diagnosis of these doubtful
cases the standard adopted in 1921 have been followed and the
confirmatory tests used, viz. :—
1. Tuberculin Cutaneous Test (Ellis).
2. X-Ray.
3. Chemical Examination of Sputum.
4. Blood pressure.
This procedure has fully proved its usefulness and is being
continued.
Treatment.—Sodium Morrhuate and Raw's Vaccine were
each tried in several cases during the past two years, but abandoned,
the patients making no material progress. At the earnest request
of one patient, a course of "John Bull or the Newell" treatment
was administered for a period extending over 3 months with no
advantage to the patient who himself provided the material.
Another patient under Domicilary treatment had a similar
experience, the drugs being administered by his own medical
attendant.
Tuberculin is now the only specific treatment employed at the
Dispensary and continues to give very satisfactory results especially
in children, where possibly its immunising effects are more valuable
than the therapeutic results.
Extra nourishment to the extent of £26 was given to 18 persons,
but to prevent overlapping, many more patients were referred to
the Guardians who never failed to promptly afford relief.
The various District Nursing Associations have again rendered
willing and valuable aid in the nursing of advanced cases in their
own homes. In this connection the Council has lent beds, mattresses,
air cushions, sputum flasks, mugs, etc., and carried out
disinfection as often as required.
Non pulmonary cases requiring residential treatment are recommended
for this to the County Council and also to the Guardians.
Should surgical apparatus as boots, splints, etc., be required, application
is made to various charitable organisations such as the Invalid
Children's Aid Association, the Charity Organisation Society, etc.,
generally through the medium of the Care Committee acting on the
information of the Tuberculosis Officer.