Interim Conference

Kai Tiaki : the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, Volume XVI, Issue 4, 1 October 1927, Page 183

Interim Conference

International Council of Nurses — Geneva, 1927,

The College of Nursing party assembled at the Continental departure platform at St. Pancras Station on Sunday, July 24th, at 9 p.m. — the train left at 10.30 p.m. Everyone seemed to be keenly anticipating the Conference and the trip to Tilbury was an enjoyable one. We had a few hours' rest on the boat to Dunkirk, and arrived at Paris an hour earlier than schedule. Automobiles conveyed us around the city, visiting en route, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, and Unknown Soldier's Tomb, and noting many other fine buildings. We returned to the restaurant at noon for lunch, and here Miss Till (Auckland) joined the party. After lunch the drive was continued until 3 p.m. when many members of the party who had accepted invitations to be present at a reception given by the Red Cross Society at their Headquarters Building, were driven thither. A hearty welcome was extended, and we listened to a most interesting address on the work of the League, now a world-wide humanitarian organisation. We were shown through the various sections, the work of each being explained, then were entertained at a delightful afternoon tea m the Red Cross rooms. I think we were all very tired that evening and only a few managed to secure a sleep on the train, which was crowded. Train reached Geneva just after 8 a.m., and we were driven to the various Fensions. In the afternoon, about 50 members" accepted invitation to a garden party at the residence of Mme. Peyrot. Here we spent a delightful time wandering around the beautiful shady grounds, and enjoyed the afternoon tea. We were all eagerly anticipating the opening of the Interim Conference, and assembled at the Salle Centrale at 10 a.m. Wednesday, 28th, for the purpose of registration and receiving programmes, dispersing at noon. We met another New Zealander, Miss Horrell (Timaru). In the afternoon the majority of the party visited the Cantonal Hospital — a large and up-to-date institution— -600 beds. We

were kindly shown over m groups — languages considered. At 8.30 p.m. the session opened, Miss N. D. Gage, President, presiding. An address of welcome was delivered by M. Turrettini, Conseiller d'Etat, Canton de Geneve, to the visiting delegates, and was responded to by Miss Gage. Mrs. Bedford Fenwick then presented a handsome bouquet to Miss Gage. An enjoyable programme of music (violin and organ) was given, then followed addresses by representatives of various societies and organisations. Thursday, Juty 28th, 9.30-12 noon.— Various subjects were discussed and papers read, "Advantages and Disadvantages of Standarding Nursing Technique" proving very interesting and of great import m these, modern times. 2.15-4.30 p.m. — Demonstration of "Nursing Procedures" was also very interesting (by Schools of Nursing of various countries). From 4.30 to 6 p.m. — Visits to various institutions of Geneva. The majority visited "L'lnstitut International d'Etucle de Material Sanitaire," inspecting the sections, and were entertained at afternoon tea. At 9 p.m. we attended a civic reception m the Foyer of the Theatre — it was indeed a delightful evening, pleasant music, and the chatting groups made an animated scene. Friday, July 29, 9.30-12 noon.— There Avere various round tables. We attended No. 5 (Ways and Means of Promoting Professional Efficiency and Personal Development of Trained Nurses working on the staffs of Hospitals and Public Health Organisations). In the afternoon we visited the Palace of Nations, and were taken m groups through the various Conference and Council rooms. In the evening a most interesting subject, "Ways and Means of Promoting the Powers of Observation and Scientific Reasoning m our Student Nurses " was submitted and discussed.

Saturday, July 30th, 10-12 noon — Members visited the International Labour Office, where a lecture was given. The afternoon was free, an excursion on the Lake of Geneva had been planned, but took place on Monday, Ist August. In the evening the General Session resumed. Subject: "Uniforms and Equipment for Nurses," and later a demonstration of nurses' uniforms took place — what variations there are ; it does make one wish for a standardised uniform. Then followed discussions, general discussion, adoption of resolutions, and closing addresses and votes of thanks. About 250 members accepted Dr. Rollier's invitation to visit his clinic at Leysin on Sunday, 31st. We left by automobiles at 7.30 a.m.. We travelled for many miles through wondrous mountain scenery, and it was very steep and awe-in-spiring m places. The visit was most interesting. To see the marvellous results of the treatment (surgical tuberculosis) cannot but convince one of the splendid

work achieved. It may take a year or two m the severe cases, but the time is made very pleasant for the patients, and all appeared very contented and hopeful m their sunny surroundings. Dr. Rollier delivered a most interesting lecture, followed by a lantern demonstration. We were entertained at lunch and tea, and a group of the patients sang to us and performed some of their regular exercises. The happy smiling faces and sun-tanned bodies were worth going many miles to see. That evening the 8-day party left for Paris, the remainder left on Tuesday evening. About 300 attended the Conference. Thus concluded a most interesting and inspiring Conference, and I am sure we all carried away the happiest memories. Our hosts and hostesses made the occasion a most pleasurable one, and I am sure we have all profited by the Interim Conference held m beautiful Geneva, 1927. I.L.J.C.