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Similarly, cases of puerperal fever and puerperal pyrexia are the subject of
investigation, and any necessary steps are taken to secure adequate nursing and
hospital facilities for the patients. If necessary, cases are nursed in the infectious
fever hospital, and although there have been three cases of puerperal fever and
seven cases of puerperal pyrexia, there have fortunately been no fatalities.
19. INSTITUTIONAL PROVISION FOR UNMARRIED MOTHERS,
ILLEGITIMATE INFANTS AND HOMELESS CHILDREN.
We have not, in Barking, any institutions which make provision for unmarried
mothers, illegitimate infants and homeless children, other than those provided by
the Public Assistance Committee and the various voluntary agencies, with which
we are constantly in touch.
20. INSTITUTIONAL PROVISION FOR THE CARE OF MENTAL
DEFECTIVES.
Institutional provision for the care of mental defectives does not come within
the scope of the Council's activities, but great interest is taken in this problem,
particularly in so far as it relates to children and young persons.
21. AMBULANCE FACILITIES.
(a) A motor ambulance is provided for the removal of infectious cases to the
Isolation Hospital, Upney Lane.
(b) For non-infectious and accident cases, two motor ambulances are kept at
the Fire Station, the ambulance and fire services being run in conjunction under
the Chief Fire Officer.
It is desirable it should be known so widely as possible that, although only
one attendant is sent with the ambulance as a rule, two attendants will be sent
whenever necessary, and that it is only for the general medical practitioner
interested in the case to indicate that such are necessary for them to be available.
For my part, I have elsewhere pointed out the advisability of a nurse travelling
with certain cases, and I hope that this will not be lost sight of.