Rushden Research Group: Health - Sanatorium Report for 1944

Transcribed by Greville Watson, November 2010

Northamptonshire County Council
Annual Report
of the
MEDICAL OFFICER of HEALTH
FOR THE YEAR 1944

[Extract]

Sanatorium Report

The number of beds available for patients with pulmonary tuberculosis was 68 – 34 for males and 34 for females. Seven patients were admitted for clinical investigation, six were discharged as non-tuberculous (including one who remained under observation at 31^st December, 1943) and two remained under observation.

There were 158 admissions of patients, 81 male, and 77 female ; and 127 were discharged, 65 male, and 62 female. Deaths in the Sanatorium numbered 19. The retention of advanced patients is consistent with the policy of isolation. This has been a useful method of preventive treatment. 16 patients suffering from pleurisy with effusion were treated – all with satisfactory results, 97 sputum positive cases were under treatment, stage (1) 4, stage (2) 65, and stage (3) 28, and 38 P.T. negative cases. Treatment was sufficient in 58 patients to bring the disease to quiescence. The average length of stay was 156.04 days.

Laboratory Work

343 sputum tests were made, 69 positive, and 274 negative. Of patients with positive sputum on admission, 41 were negative on discharge. The Blood Sedimentation Rate was assessed on admission of each patient, and at monthly intervals during treatment. This examination gives an immediate indication as to the patient’s condition, and activity of disease. 828 such examinations were made.

X-ray Work

All patients are filmed on admission, and subsequently during treatment. 1,742 X‑ray examinations were made, consisting of 1,382 screen examinations, and 360 films. All nursing and domestic staff are X‑rayed on commencing duties, and at periods during their service according to their reaction to the Mantoux test.

Treatment

Consists of absolute rest for patients with the most active type of disease, substituted for those who have lost their toxaemia by hours up, and later by light graded work.

Artificial Pneumothorax Treatment. Treatment by artificial pneumothorax was continued. 48 inductions of artificial pneumothorax were made at the Sanatorium, and three were abandoned. 1,449 refills were given. There were 2 pleural washouts and 36 aspirations.

Adhesion Section. 22 patients were transferred to Creaton Sanatorium for section of adhesions limiting artificial pneumothorax, Thoracoplasties, and for Phrenic Crush.

The Treatment Block at the Sanatorium was again in use for examination of patients, artificial pneumothorax treatment, pleural washouts, sedimentation rates, dental work, and X‑ray work, and also as an office.

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