View report page

40
X-raying " Harts " patients has, up to the present, worked quite
smoothly and advantageously, yet, in view of the fact that Artificial
Pneumothorax treatment is increasing fairly rapidly, in my
opinion it will be advisable in the near future for the Council
to consider the provision of an X-ray apparatus at " Harts,"
so that the institution may be brought into line with other upto-date
sanatoria. Not only are X-rays necessary for patients
undergoing the above treatment, but also for those cases having
pleurisy with fluid and of course for taking films of chests in
order to confirm the diagnosis, to ascertain the extent of the
disease, or for other reasons.
The number of sputa examined bacteriologically this year
was 224 as compared with 199 in 1928, both the ordinary and the
anti-formin methods being used. Furthermore, specimens of
pleural effusions, a pyopneumothorax, and other pathological discharges
were examined microscopically.
As regards complications and their treatment, it is interesting
to note that the following were dealt with :—
12 cases of laryngeal tuberculosis, 2 of pneumokoniosis, 2 of
pyopneumothorax, and one each of diabetes, psoriasis, kidney
disease, rheumatism, eczema, asthma, and tubercular rib. In one
case of pyopneumothorax it was necessary to tap the patient's
chest and withdraw the fluid on no less than seven occasions.
There were 18 patients admitted with dental defects and the
majority of these were given leave from time to time to visit their
own dentist for the requisite treatment.
In October the Matron, Miss M. R. Small, resigned and in
November Miss G. E. Sharpe, of Raywell Sanatorium, Yorks,
was appointed to succeed her, and the latter took up her duties
on January 1st, 1930.
During the winter months entertainments by concert parties,
a Dickens lecture, and the singing of carols on Boxing Day, were
highly appreciated both by patients and staff.