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is a service which has been greatly appreciated by both patients and
their relatives.
An increasing number of terminally ill patients are being
nursed in the familiar surroundings of their own homes. Their families
continue to be supported by the district nurses. The Health department
acts as an agent for the Marie Curie Foundation which, in the case of
patients suffering from cancerous diseases, pays for a night nursing
service to help relieve stress suffered by relatives. Each patient is
visited by a nursing officer and the needs assessed. The borough employs
two trained night nurses.
Geriatric At Risk Register
The care of elderly patients is still one of the main priorities
for the community nursing services. An 'At Risk' register is kept
of those who live alone, who are deteriorating either physically or
mentally, and are without regular support. Meetings are held for staff
of the Health and Social Services departments, when each elderly person
is assessed, and surveillance is continued throughout the year by field
staff.
These elderly residents are particularly vulnerable when gas
or electricity strikes are threatened.
Hypothermia kits have continued to be maintained in readiness
for such emergencies.
Psychiatric Care of the Patient in the Home
Two district nurses, who are psychiatrically trained, have
continued to visit selected patients. They are able to give supportive
help, and also administer the drug maintenance (modicate) for certain
patients having long-term treatment for schizophrenia. Several psychogeriatric
patients are able to stay in their own homes instead of
having to be admitted into institutional care. These nurses have also
attended case studies in Kenley Ward, Kingston Hospital.
Marie Curie Memorial Foundation - Pilot Educational Project
This project was held at the Nurses' Home from April - June,
1972, in eight 2-hourly afternoon sessions. The cost of hospitality
was met by the Surbiton District Nursing Association.