HOSPITAL MAINTENANCE

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXIV, 14 June 1930, Page 13

HOSPITAL MAINTENANCE

(To the Editor) Sir, —I notice that economy will have to be made in the hospitals which is very sad, considering food is economical now, and nurses in the public hospitals ask the patients to get their friends to bring them a few eggs, fish, fowl, or other comforts We know that all food is now a luxury in price, but nine shillings a day is as much as many can pay. Someone writing t< the papers advocated that all patients should ho treated alike; and if he means medically and surgically with proper anaesthetics, that is quite right, but where better acommodation and single room is ' cquired with other comforts, wily not let those who like pay for it. This would help those who cannot pay. I was once in a foreign city where there were three classes. The first class iiad most beautiful linen, lino china, solid silver, and silk covers. The second class very nice indeed and almost as good. The third class was much like tile hospitals here. Many had a room to themselves, while others were in a large room or ward with small divisions, f would like to suggest, that those having to hold the big electric bulbs to dry. up a wound, should have a nurse or probationer in the room to attend to the patient ; some little device shown where the patient can turn the electricity off. I once saw a person up North whose arm was so burnt, because the patient did not understand it, and the nurse was away. It was like a well fried fish and gave the patient much trouble and pain. I am, etc., “IN SYMPATHY.” Nelson, 13th Juno.