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27
That the mortality for 1905 was somewhat greater than the
average is explained by the fact, that of the fourteen cases of
diphtheria and croup actually admitted four were serious cases of
laryngeal disease requiring tracheotomy. Of these two recovered.
Of the two fatal cases, one was complicated by a peculiar congenital
malformation of the larynx, and one was admitted too late for more
than temporary relief to be afforded.
The period of detention in hospital of the cases of Scarlet
Fever and Diphtheria was much shorter than in past years, and in
consequence the " average number of patients daily " was, during
1905, very low.
For this, as also for the immunity from complications enjoyed
by the patients, thanks are due to the nursing skill of Miss Clark,
the Matron, whose abilities, both nursing and administrative, have
been of the greatest assistance.
It was stated in my report for 1904 that considerable progress
had been made towards the re-organization of the hospital,
first suggested in 1901 and 1902.
Early in 1905 a report was submitted urging the desirability
of at once augmenting the quite insufficient accommodation for the
staff, and of building a ward block suitable for the reception of
cases of typhoid fever. A Sub-committee was appointed, which,
after careful consideration, approved the principle of the
recommendations made, but advised the postponement, for the
time, of the building of a typhoid block.
The report of the Sub-committee was adopted, and the
Surveyor to the Council prepared an admirable design for additions
to the administrative cottage, which will afford proper and
seemly accommodation for the nurses and domestic servants.