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77
Mental Condition.—183 were discovered to be dull and five
mentally defective. The teachers were asked to give their
opinion as to this condition in the children, except those in the
Infants' Department.
Rickets.—Only six cases showed evidence of Rickets in early
life by deformity of the chest, spine, or bones.
Deformities.— Deformity of the chest, curvature of the
spine and legs in some form was discovered in 33 cases, chiefly
in those children below eight years of age.
Infectious Diseases.—21 cases were found equal to o.8 per
cent., which included Scarlet Fever, Diphtheria, etc.
Ringworm and Skin Diseases.—A number of cases of Ringworm
were brought to my notice by the School Nurse, who
examines all the heads, and microscopical examination was
made of the hair in doubtful cases. This disease still continues
to be a troublesome complaint in school life, as sometimes
when children have been permitted to return to school as cured,
the disease recurs, and other children become infected. Contagious
Impetigo has been very common in some schools, but
by the advice given to the parents it has soon been got rid of.
The Work of the School Nurse.—The duties of the School
Nurse are various and manifold. She examines the children
in the schools periodically (apart from the Medical Inspection)
to ascertain the condition of cleanliness of head and
body to detect any skin disease, ringworm, etc. She visits the
home of any children excluded for uncleanliness or disease,
and gives advice to parents. Her reception is often unpleasant,
but there is no doubt that great good has resulted from her
interviews.
She becomes acquainted with the homes and often obtains
assistance where required ; such as grants of clothing, letters for
hospital treatment, etc. The Nurse also assists the Medical
Inspector in the examination of the children. She saves the
time of the Doctor by taking note of the condition of the head,
examines the vision, and prepares the child for examination.