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44
IMMUNISATION
Most of the emphasis was laid upon vaccination against
poliomyelitis and a successful programme of two injections for
over two thirds of children between 6 months and 15 years of age
was completed before the end of July.
As regards vaccination against smallpox and immunisation for
diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus, preference was given to
vaccination against poliomyelitis with the result that fewer
children received these other injections.
The usual tables are given in Appendix, page 128.
HOME NURSING
This service continues to be provided on an agency basis by
the Croydon District Nursing Association. During 1958, the
Nurses' Hostel and special administrative block built by the
Corporation were opened by the Minister of Health. These
premises provide long needed accommodation for the proper
administration of this essential domiciliary service. The total
of work covered during the year under review was less than the
the peak reached last year and there were no staffing difficulties
reported in regard to the district nurses themselves.
It is, however, a service in which the higher administrative
posts do not seem to be attractive and local experience confirmed
this national trend. Tables given in Appendix, page 117.
REHABILITATION OF ELDERLY PERSONS
Last year, a detailed report was given of the work of the
special S.E.A. Nurse who maintains close contact with the
geriatric clinic at Queen's Hospital. This nurse has a motor
car, and covers the whole of the borough. I do not propose to
set out the cases dealt with in 1958 on the lines of 1957, but a
summary is given in the Appendix page 118. It again proved
a worthwhile service and is being continued unchanged.
LOAN OF NURSING EQUIPMENT
This service has become essential for the proper care of
patients in their own homes and the number and variety of items
which are loaned continues to increase. The usual details are
given in Appendix page 119.