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89
Open Air School.—Many children were recommended for
admission to the Open Air School during 1935. Some 50 children
are on the roll, and they are seen at intervals by the Tuberculosis
Officer. Once again, special mention must be made of the remarkable
improvement seen in these sub-normal or 'contact' children
after a period at the School. It is a tribute to the care and attention
bestowed on them.
Convalescent Treatment.—Some 20 children were recommended
for periods of convalescent treatment. Arrangements
were made by the Invalid Children's Aid Association, who dealt
quickly and sympathetically with all such cases. Subnormal
'contact' children and the bronchitic type of child, were those
usually recommended. In most cases satisfactory improvement
in the general and local condition resulted.
'Boarding Out' of Contacts.—In the case of two families,
this special arrangement for children was availed of. In other
cases where this scheme was considered, suitable alternative
methods were adopted, relatives usually undertaking to care for
the children.
After Care.—Though this aspect of the Dispensary work is
unofficial and unorganized it is not true, as has been suggested on
occasion, that caro work is not done.
Seven garden shelters belonging to the Council have been in
continuous use during the year. In some dozen cases bedsteads
and bedding were obtained for patients needing isolation at home.
Three bedsteads are on loan and these, together with fourtoen
pairs of blankets, were obtained as a result of a donation from the
Alexandra Day Fund and have been of the greatest help during
the year.
In about 30 cases gifts of personal clothing were mado to
necessitous patients as a result of the kindness of various friends
of the Dispensary Nursing Staff.
In addition, help was obtained from the British Legion,
Mayor's Fund, etc.
Seventy-five cases were referred to the Public Assistance
Authorities during the year. All such cases recommended were
considered sympathetically and in the majority, assistance and
extra nourishment were allowed.
Dried milk was issued from the Dispensary as a form of extra
nourishment to some cases. This is not regarded as a satisfactory
ancillary to treatment and a more suitable scheme is under
consideration.