19

H.—7a

I notice that some alteration is required, before winter sets in, in some of the ward fireplaces: these would be inspected by an officer from the Public Works Department. The hospital is far too large for its purpose ; and the recent diminution in the number of patients would seem to show that it was formerly used by those who could obtain medical attendance at their own homes. 16th April, 1884.

WAIMATE. My inspection of this hospital was made on the 22nd October, 1883, when I examined the whole of the buildings and premises, and conversed separately with each of the patients. Of these, there are at present ten occupying beds, and there are also two female relatives in attendance upon two of them who are children. The whole may fairly be considered as fit subjects for hospital treatment, and the reason of the number being so large is to be found in the good reputation which the hospital enjoys. All the patients I found to be satisfied with their treatment and surroundings. The wards have a homely and comfortable appearance. The bedding is good, and scrupulously clean. Books and papers are liberally provided; and, in addition to the other furniture, I noticed that some good bedside tables had been procured since my last visit was made. The large male ward badly requires colouring and painting, the walls having become very shabby and dirty. Adjoining this ward a room is now being built for a nurse or wardsman, who will be able to exercise control over the patients and render them assistance when needed. This will supply a defect which has sometimes caused inconvenience. The kitchen likewise requires cleaning and colouring. The rest of the establishment is in excellent order. The fever-hospital has been in use for four cases of typhoid and one of erysipelas since my last inspection. It is now empty of patients ; but all the beds are made up with beautifully clean linen, and are ready for immediate use when required. The wards in this small building are very cheerful and well arranged : they contain nine beds. I find that a good many out-patients attend at the hospital, their prescriptions being fully entered in a book kept for that purpose. Of the collection of maintenance-money, the book-keeping, and the procuring of supplies, I have nothing to add to what was stated in my former report. A kitchen-garden has recently been fenced in and planted: this will prove a valuable addition. Mr. and Mrs. Petit, the Steward and Matron, continue to devote their best energies to the welfare of the establishment, the condition of which reflects much credit upon them. Dr. Hassell is now the Medical Officer, and appears to visit with great regularity. 22nd October, 1883.

WAIPUKUEAU. This hospital was inspected on the 19th January, 1884. After finding so few patients, at this busy season of the year, in some of the other hospitals, I was surprised to see here ten beds occupied. All the patients were of the male sex, and, with one exception, fair subjects for hospital treatment. Some of them had sustained severe injuries. As many as sixteen beds had been occupied at one time since my last visit, which is good evidence that this establishment supplies a pressing want. The fever-ward (detached) is now completed, and furnished for its special use, but no necessity has as yet arisen for its occupation. This building is well planned and well constructed. The large and lofty ward is intended to accommodate five patients, but at present two bedsteads only are provided. The ventilation is good, and the walls are plastered in a good cement. Two chairs, a table, and a metal washstand complete the list of furniture. A fixed bath is provided, to which water is not laid on at present. An excellent earth-closet, with hopper and distributing apparatus, occupies a projecting room. The nurse's room has an enamelled-iron sink, with supply of rainwater. A linencloset is provided in the lobby. Of the main portion of the hospital I have very little to add to my former report. Some additional chairs have been procured, and others made more comfortable. An American organ, for use at Divine service, has kindly been lent by Mr. Wilding. Every portion of the establishment, with its furniture and bedding, I found in the best possible order and condition. The patients expressed themselves as thoroughly satisfied. The Steward and Matron, Mr. and Mrs. Putnam, are admirably suited for the position they occupy. I had the opportunity of conversing with Mr. Smith, M.H.E., and Mr. Wilding, two members of the Committee, who take a very active interest in the welfare of this well-managed hospital. 19th January, 1884.

WANGANUI. On the 18th December, 1883, I paid a visit of inspection to this hospital. I found in residence sixteen male and two female patients : one or two were chronic cases. The largest number treated as in-patients on any one day has been twenty-six. Out-patients are very few in number. No fevercases have required admission. I found that a very material alteration had been effected as regards the internal condition of this hospital. New and wider entrance-doors to the female fever-ward; a new water-closet and lavatory, well arranged : a pair of baize-covered doors, dividing the male from the female division; a good kitchen-range, with high-pressure boiler; a fixed bath, with hot- and cold-water supply, were all noticed with satisfaction. Outside the building a suitable mortuary has been provided in what was formerly a mere shed; the old mortuary forms a coal-store ; two additional detached water-closets have been erected, a hydrant, with proper hose, provided, and the yard near the kitchen enclosed with a good fence, and concreted near the building. The fever-wards are warmed in cold weather by central stoves, which are removed during the summer : they appear to have given satisfaction. A number of nicely-framed pictures have been hung on the walls of the wards, where I also saw a profusion of cut flowers. The whole interior has been cleaned and coloured or painted. The kitchen roof has been lined with match-board, and this room made much mora