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55
During the year 294 midwives notified the Council of their intention to
practise in the Borough.
Ancillary Staff in Health Centres
Clinic Nurses, many of whom are promoted to school nurse grade, have
continued to make a valuable contribution to the services. There are always a
number of students sponsored by the Borough for health visitor training who
have previously been clinic nurses.
District Nursing
1972 was the first full year during which the Directorate was responsible
for the domiciliary nursing services, having taken the service over in 1971 from
the Lambeth District Nursing Association. It was found necessary during the
year to increase the number of nurses employed, and also the scope of the service.
Bathing Attendants working to the District Nurses make a valuable contribution
to the overall care of the elderly and handicapped within the Borough.
In September a night nursing service was introduced. On occasion a State
Registered Nurse is provided to enable a patient to remain at home when relatives
are very anxious not to have to send them to hospital. A night sitter service also
began. The object of this service is te relieve relatives for one or two nights a
week, in order to enable them to have a peaceful night. There is every indication
that there is a need for these services, and it is anticipated that there will be
expansion in this.
Total number of persons nursed during the year 7,249
Number aged under 5 at first visit during the year 579
Number aged 65 and over at first visit in the year 3,720
Total number of visits during the year 184,044
Hospital Liaison Schemes
Paediatric nursing liaison schemes have been operating for some time with
both St. Thomas' Hospital and King's College Hospital. During 1972 two new
schemes commenced, one in Geriatric care and the other in medical nursing.
These arrangements have had the support and encouragement of the hospital,
medical, social work and nursing staff and no major difficulties have been
encountered. It is hoped to arrange a visit to every Geriatric case discharged
from hospital. The liaison health visitor refers patients not living on her own
clinic area to the appropriate health visitor or the District Nurse, whichever seems
to be the more appropriate.