NURSES IN TRAINING

New Zealand Times, Volume LIII, Issue 12459, 29 May 1926, Page 10

NURSES IN TRAINING

The following figures are given in Dr Macdonald Wilson's report to the Wellington Hospital Board; The nursing staff to day comprises (in addition to matron and assistant matron): Sisters 17, certificated nurses IS, pupil nurs.es 57 (second and third year in training), probationers 69, probationers on trial 29 (first year in training), total 190. The average daily number of occupied beds 474, and nursing staff of 192, represents a proportion of 2!4 patients to each nu**se —a figure which does not suggest over-staffing. The increase in the staff to attempt to give nurses one day off in seven has led to an increased number of junior nurses. (The nurses at present are getting one day off in 14.) In a training institution there must always bo a big percentage of junior nurses, but at present the percentage is higher than is desirable. This will right itself shortly so long as senior positions are made available and attractive foi certificated nurses. During the latter end of the past year the position of Sister Tutor was created and Sister Clark has already begun her duties. Miss Moore was loaned for a short period by the Health Department, and her advice has been much appreciated. By instituting probationer classes nad organising better tho teaching and training of our nurses, tho comfort and nursing treatment of patients should be improved.