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Planned Early Discharges of Maternity Patients
Planned schemes of early discharge for suitable patients are in operation in
conjunction with the North Middlesex and Chase Farm hospitals in order to ensure,
in the present circumstances of shortage of maternity beds, a maximum number of
admissions to hospital for those who, on medico-social grounds require hospital
delivery. As a temporary measure, in conjunction with University College Hospital,
a few patients were accepted under this scheme when part of the maternity ward
at the hospital was closed.
Care of Premature Infants
The number of babies notified during the year who weighed 5½ lb. or less
at birth (the accepted criterion for prematurity) was 274 of which 71 were born
at home. Midwives cared for 42 of these babies at home for the full statutory period
of 28 days and all the children survived.
Portable Incubators
This year, portable incubators held at the main ambulance depots were used
on 29 occasions to transport premature or sick babies to hospital.
Analgesia
The question of the best apparatus for analgesia to use in domiciliary midwifery
is under review by the Central Midwives Board. At present, trilene and gas and
air equipment is in use.
Midwifery Staff Refresher Courses
The Rules of the Central Midwives Board require midwives from time to time
to attend a course of instruction approved by the Board. During the year, four midwives
attended such courses arranged by the Royal College of Midwives.
Training of Pupil Midwives
Two pupil midwives were placed for their domiciliary training with a midwife
teacher.
Co-operation of Midwives with General Practitioners
One domiciliary midwife attends ante-natal sessions held by a general practitioner
at his own surgery and a close liaison between midwives and family doctors
is maintained throughout the Borough.
Disposal of Placentae and Offensive Dressings
Disposal points are conveniently situated throughout the Borough. Means have
been provided in newly-built tall blocks of Council flats for disposal by incineration.
(Statistical Tables, 13, 14—see page 117).
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