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59
In April, 1919, a case of puerperal fever was notified from
the Home. The patient went home and is still suffering from
attacks of pyrexia, which are now considered by her doctor to be
due to a septic condition of the gums. I do not think that the
case was associated with any septic infection during the confinement.
It is interesting to note that "twilight sleep" was administered
in three cases, and that twins were born on only one occasion,
but that 10 children were born prematurely, necessitating
the use of the incubator.
29 babies have been circumcised at the Home.
No case suitable of admission to the Home has been refused.
Seven unmarried mothers were admitted. Two necessitous cases
were admitted free, and three others were admitted at nominal
fees.
At the present time the circumstances of all those unable to
pay an adequate fee are enquired into by the Health Visitors and
reported to the Medical Officer of Health, who, in conjunction
with the Statutory Committee, decides as to what reduction shall
be made.
Of the 101 cases above referred to, the average stay in the
Home was 16 days.
The premises at present used for the Maternity Home are not
altogether adapted for institutional work and entail a good deal of
unnecessary labour. The popularity of the Home, together with
this fact, led the Statutory Committee to negotiate, with the
sanction of the Ministry of Health, for the purchase of a site in
Hatch Lane for the erection of a fully equipped Home of 20 beds.
Draft plans of the new Home are under consideration at present,
and I hope by the issue of my next report to be able to state
that this project is on its way to completion.