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24
THE WORK OF THE PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING SERVICES
Miss A. Hayward, A.R.R.C., T.D., S.R.N., S.C.M., H.V.Cert.,
Although staffing shortages seem to have dominated 1969 and all the
nursing services have carried vacancies at some time during the year, Inservice
Training has continued. To help the S.E.N./District Nurse training
become truly integrated, Clinical Instructors from Croydon General Hospital
were invited to a five day course for Group Leaders and Practical Work
Instructors in the District Nursing Service. This course, held early in the
year, was followed nine months later by a study day.
Colleagues in the Hospital Maternity Services were welcomed by
Health Visitors, Physiotherapists and Domiciliary Midwives to a study day
held in an endeavour to sort out the role of each worker and so avoid confusion
in the mind of the expectant mother.
A series of two day courses have been held for Health Visitors to
prepare them to carry out hearing tests on babies. So far 75% of. the staff
have received this training. Lunch time seminars with a consultant
psychiatrist, and outside speakers at staff meetings have all played a part
in In-service Training, and the nursing services are deeply indebted to
Miss Elliott, Croydon's Health Education Officer, amd her staff for their
enthusiasm and help.
District Nursing Service
This branch of the service experienced a good deal of change during
the year. The Superintendent moved away from the area, and one of the
Assistant Nursing Officers retired after many years in home nursing. It
was gratifying to be able to fill these vacancies from within the Service.
The use of Nursing Auxiliaries has proceeded with great success.
Six have been recruited during the year bringing the total to 8. All are car
drivers and all have had previous hospital experience. Although they
have initial introductory training and attend staff meetings, further inservice
training may well be necessary to maintain interest, and provide
a stimulating atmosphere. They have fully justified their inclusion in the
domiciliary team.
For detailed figures see Appendix page 111
Domiciliary Midwifery Service
The number of home confinements has again shown a downward trend,
but the midwives have been fully employed caring for planned and unplanned
early discharges, and ensuring that every baby born or residing
in the borough has a Guthrie test.