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of the women employees of the Borough in the previous year, had
just this magic touch. Perhaps it was the lack of this which caused
the failure of our recalls, since 6 or 7 out of 10 failed to turn up.
Of course, quite a number of previous patients have come up on their
own initiative before receiving the official notice. However, we
should not forget the possibility of the passive resistance of quite
a number of people who deliberately reject the advice given.
Out of the 1,440 patients examined, we found one with frank
carcinoma and two had suspect smears.
One 41 year old patient who showed a frank carcinoma of the cervix
on speculum examination, was referred to the Gynaecologist immediately
without taking a smear. She had been bleeding previously for three
weeks, but did not go to her family doctor. She was seen by a
Gynaecologist the following day and was admitted for operation and
referred subsequently for radiology treatment at the London Hospital
where she has been followed up.
One 57 year old woman had a smear which was highly suggestive of
carcinoma and a cone biopsy was recommended by the pathologist. She
had, further to the biopsy, radiotherapy and is still under the care
of Oldchurch Hospital.
The third patient was 27 years old, she had a Papanicolaou Grade
11+ smear on three occasions. She was referred to the Gynaecologist
and was advised to have a cone biopsy.
Other findings were:-
Minor Gynaecological Abnormalities (polypus and erosion etc.) 36
Fibroids 4
Cyetocele 1
Trichomonas Vaginalis 24
Monilia 9
LOAN OF SICK-ROOM EQUIPMENT
Patients being nursed at home may, on medical recommendation
be loaned a wide variety of equipment to assist in their care. Bulky
items are delivered to patients' homes, smaller articles are
collected from the health department by relatives.
2,104 articles were loaned during the year and 3,837 items were
out on loan at the year's end. In addition, non returnable items for
incontinent patients were supplied in considerable quantity. 43,200
disposable incontinence pads were issued and 79 patients were supplied
with waterproof pants or knickers with disposable linings.
Ripple beds were also loaned through hiring arrangements with
manufacturers; this being the most economical way of obtaining these
items in view of their high cost and maintenance charges.
37