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77
persuasion the majority finally accepted; some were much too handicapped
to manage the new method and in these cases the meals would
continue to go to them as before.
Mental Health
Two health visitors attended psychiatric lectures at Goodmayes
Hospital in 1962. Arising from previous visits to the hospital in
1961, it was suggested by the Doctor of Ward II for disturbed patients
that we endeavour to teach the patients relaxation. At this time two
of the patients were expectant mothers. Therefore classes began in
exactly the same way as we teach in our clinics. Once the two
mothers had been discharged different subjects for discussion had
to be chosen. The health visitor finds that the patients chosen by
the ward sister respond to relaxation, often enjoying a sleep. The
short talk or discussion afterwards for 10 minutes is sufficient;
anything from "Budgeting" to "Care of the Hair" is discussed, the
patients very often putting forward a topic they wish to chat about.
Although we perhaps do not see the patient always getting
better, the doctor in charge of the patients assures us that this is
worth while continuing.
Health Education
Following a discussion with the Matron and Tutor at our local
Maternity Hospital, a health visitor now joins in the fortnightly
evening talks to prospective parents, the Tutor, Sister and Health
Visitor each taking the subject most suited to her work. From discussion
afterwards parents are obviously stimulated to askquestions.
Our Mothercraft and Relaxation continue, plus one evening
club for young mothers.
We continue to accept for public health visits student nurses,
trainee district nurses and other students. The Ilford health visitors
have been invited to take part in study days, both with our Maternity
Hospital and Oldchurch Hospital.
Health Visiting Shows a Slight Change in 1962
The health visitors are finding many immigrants moving into
the Area, with language difficulties health visiting becomes more
difficult. The visitor visiting the tuberculosis patients finds this a
problem; she often arranges an interpreter but once the word "T.B."
is mentioned he or she disappears. It is difficult to get patients to
attend "contact" clinics and follow rules of simple hygiene. Several
families tend to live together in one house causing overcrowding.