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23
It has proved more satisfactory for the patient to find her own
home help, if possible, usually a relative. The Council pay her
wages, and claim re-imbursement according to scale from the
patient.
WOODLANDS MATERNITY HOME.
The number -of cases admitted during the year was lower
than in 1942 as the home was closed for 28 days owing to an outbreak
of pemphigus. During August and early September four
cases of pemphigus occurred followed by two further cases on
October 15th and 16th.
The home was closed to new cases on October 19th, alternative
arrangements being made for the booked cases, and the
Ministry of Health were informed. The home was thoroughly
disinfected and redecorated, and several structural alterations
suggested by Dr. Marsh of the Ministry of Health were completed.
The home re-opened on November 17th, and no further cases
have occurred.
To avoid overcrowding as much as possible, an extra antenatal
session has been held at the home each week, and during
the last months of the year the ante-natal clinics were held at
the Cavendish Road First-Aid Post.
During the year a Walton Minnitt gas and air apparatus for
analgesia was purchased and the staff received special training
in its use at Kingston County Hospital.
Staff
The staff consists of a matron, two sisters, two staff nurses
and five pupil midwives. All the staff are State registered nurses
and, with the exception of the pupil midwives, hold the certificate
of the Central Midwives' Board. The Home is recognised as a
Part II. training school for midwives.
Home
The Home can accommodate 15 patients at a time, but
bookings are limited to 26 patients per month.