Probably used to record patient details and allow computerised upload of details in hospital. This item used by Rural Ambulance Victoria. Portable computer (lap top) in black carry case aperture so that the screen can be 'written on' using attached stylus.WALKABOUT HH3 CEFC

Probably used to record patient details and allow computerised upload of details in hospital. This item used by Rural Ambulance Victoria.Portable computer (lap top) in black carry case aperture so that the screen can be 'written on' using attached stylus.WALKABOUT HH3 CEFC

Probably used to record patient details and allow computerised upload of details in hospital. This item used by Rural Ambulance Victoria.Portable computer (lap top) in black carry case aperture so that the screen can be 'written on' using attached stylus.WALKABOUT HH3 CEFC

This vehicle was used for patient clinic runs between Morabbin and Kingston Hospital. It then was modified into an ambulance mobile communications vehicle. Found to be too small to fulfil this role it was later allocated to the Healesville State Emergency Service. It then returned to Ambulance Victoria where it was stored at Eltham for ten years. The vehicle was repaired mechanically by Bill Redpath in 2016 and repainted. It will be restored internally by AHSV members and former MICA paramedics to represent Car 208, Victoria's and Australia's first Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA). The AHSV holds some of the original equipment from Car 208 and this will be refitted into the Dodge.White Dodge Ambulancedodge, mica

Pleasant Creek Colony history in brief Warning about distressing information Patient information Disclaimer Source On this page: Pleasant Creek Colony history in brief Warning about distressing information Patient information Disclaimer Source Pleasant Creek Colony history in brief In 1861, the Pleasant Creek Hospital opened as a medical facility for the population of Stawell and district. Another building was added in 1904, Syme Ward for convalescent patients. In 1933, the facility was replaced by a newly-built hospital in the town of Stawell. In 1934, the Mental Hygiene Department acquired the old Pleasant Creek Hospital site and converted it to accommodate children with disabilities, which became Pleasant Creek Special School. The first residents (18 boys) were admitted in 1937 from Royal Park Depot. At the end of 1937, there were 98 children living at Pleasant Creek. In 1968 the Pleasant Creek Special School was renamed Pleasant Creek Training Centre, caring for people with intellectual disabilities. From the 1950s to the 1980s, there were several building developments: •1957, Lonsdale Unit expanded capacity to 113 •1969, Bellfield and Fyans Units increased numbers to 196 •1977, Alexandra Unit converted to recreational and lecture room facility. •1977, Day Centre, Nurses' Home and Clinical Services Administration buildings •1985, Nara Unit closed for renovations and residents moved to the previous staff living quarters. https://www.findingrecords.dhhs.vic.gov.au/CollectionResultsPage/Pleasant-Creek-Colony

The RDNS Sisters are named in the photograph, L-R - Sister Megan Margaret Day who works in the Domiciliary Infant Maternal Care (DIMC) section of RDNS. The next Sister's name is unknown, and on the right is Sister Ruth Eileen McKeon who is a Nurse Educator with RDNS. The photograph is taken in the Education Department of Royal District Nursing Service, and the two Sisters are receiving instruction on the function of the organs of the human body from Sister McKeon. The Sisters are wearing the RDNS summer uniform of a white short sleeve blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock. Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, later, in 1966, called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). From 1885, only Trained nurses (Nurses), through the Hospital training system, were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. In 1961, Education programs commenced at MDNS with Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in In-service Education and established the RDNS Department of Community Nursing Education in 1962. Staff could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. Many of their senior Sisters received Postgraduate diplomas from the College of Nursing in Community Health Nursing, Education, and Administration, and several travelled overseas visiting nursing organizations viewing their public health and District nursing systems. At RDNS many programs were run, including: a Post Basic Course, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nursing, Haematology/Oncology Nursing, Palliative Care program, Diabetic Stabilization Program, Leg Ulcer Management Program, Wound Care Specialist Program, HIV/AIDS Nursing Care, Cystic Fibrosis Home Support, Veterans Home Care Program, Breast Cancer Support Program, Continence Management Program, Stomal Therapy Program, In-Home Lactation Support Program and the Homeless Persons Program. RDNS staff attended several hospitals to observe and learn special care needed to some clients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of patients in the Rehabilitation ward. A Community Nursing Education Program was extended to student nurses from hospitals and to other nursing organizations. These Education programs kept the RDNS Sisters abreast of new techniques, such as changes in technology for e.g. new testing methods in detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin obtained a Post Basic Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing and included this area in her Education lectures. Sr. Daphne Geldard specialized in the area of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. These Sisters visited patients in District areas with the regular RDNS Sister when required. Every member of staff, both professional and non professional staff, received regular education in the Education Department. In 1980, a Home Health Aide pilot study, funded by the Federal Government, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and RDNS, with the program written and taught by Sr. Rowley, was evaluated as successful, and Home Health Aides were employed and worked in RDNS Centres under the supervision of the RDNS Sisters. On the left of this black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Megan Day, who has curled short dark hair and is wearing glasses. She is standing side-on facing to the right of the photograph. The index finger of her right hand is pointing to an area on the internal frontal view of a Human Torso Model which is sitting on a table to her right. Between her and the model is another Sister who has her long dark hair drawn back. She is looking at the internal organs in the Model. To the right of the Model is Sister Ruth McKeon, who has her long light colour hair drawn back into a French Twist. She is standing side-on facing to the left of the photograph, and is smiling as she holds one of the organs taken from the Model. When looking at the photograph, the left side of the Model's face is seen, and on the right side the Internal organs of the face are seen. The internal organs of the neck and torso of the Model are seen. A blackboard with writings about the function of 'The Heart' is In the background. The Sisters are all wearing their RDNS uniforms of a short sleeve white blouse under a V neck tunic style dress which has the RDNS logo on its upper left.Barry Sutton LY 66 namesrdns, rdns education, royal district nursing service, sister megan margaret day, sister ruth eileen mckeon

The photograph shows a group of Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters receiving a lecture on 'Physical Handicap' given by Sr. Rowley in the Education Department at RDNS Headquarters 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. Sr. Rowley is the Principal Nurse Educator at RDNS.Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, later, in 1966, called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). From 1885, only Trained nurses (Nurses), through the Hospital training system, were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. In 1961, Education programs commenced at MDNS with Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in In-service Education and established the RDNS Department of Community Nursing Education in 1962. Staff could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. Many of their senior Sisters received Postgraduate diplomas from the College of Nursing in Community Health Nursing, Education, and Administration, and several travelled overseas visiting nursing organizations viewing their public health and District nursing systems. At RDNS many programs were run, including: a Post Basic Course, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nursing, Haematology/Oncology Nursing, Palliative Care program, Diabetic Stabilization Program, Leg Ulcer Management Program, Wound Care Specialist Program, HIV/AIDS Nursing Care, Cystic Fibrosis Home Support, Veterans Home Care Program, Breast Cancer Support Program, Continence Management Program, Stomal Therapy Program, In-Home Lactation Support Program and the Homeless Persons Program. RDNS Sisters attended several hospitals to observe and learn special care needed to some patients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of patients in the Rehabilitation ward. A Community Nursing Education Program was extended to student nurses from hospitals and to other nursing organizations. These Education programs kept the RDNS Sisters abreast of new techniques, such as changes in technology for e.g. new testing methods in detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin obtained a Post Basic Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing and included this area in her Education lectures. Sr. Daphne Geldard specialized in the area of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. These Sisters visited patients in District areas with the regular RDNS Sister when required. Every member of staff, both professional and non professional staff, received regular education in the Education Department. In 1980, a Home Health Aide pilot study, funded by the Federal Government, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and RDNS, with the program written and taught by Sr. Rowley, was evaluated as successful, and Home Health Aides were employed and worked in RDNS Centres under the supervision of the RDNS Sisters. This black and white photograph shows the back view of four rows of Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters sitting at small tables and looking toward Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley who is facing them. She is in the rear centre of the photograph. The 16 Sisters, some partly hidden, are wearing a variety of summer day clothes. Spectacle cases, pens, sheets of paper, and some books are on the tables in front of them. Sister Rowley who wears glasses; has short straight dark hair, is wearing a white short sleeve blouse under a dark V neck tunic style dress. She is looking at the group and her right hand is pointing to writing on a large blackboard standing to her right. To the left of the blackboard, a draped Human Torso Model sits on a table. A long dark curtain hangs behind part of the blackboard. Running along the left of the photograph is a wooden door with glass panels at the top, some light colour wall with a dark picture rail, and a set of double glass doors with long grey curtains either side. To the right of Sr. Rowley part of a large white board is seen hanging above and below the dark picture rail on the wall.Barry Sutton LY 69rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns education, sister pat (paddy) rowley

A Medical Student is explaining the use of a bottle of testing tablets to a lady who is a patient of RDNS. The Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister is holding testing equipment; i.e. the eye dropper and test tube in the receptacle, in her hands, and is observing the Medical Student giving instructions to the lady. The photograph is taken in the lady's home.Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) from its inception in 1885, later called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). Only Trained nurses (Nurses) were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. In 1961 Education programs commenced at MDNS with Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in In-service Education and established the RDNS Department of Community Nursing Education in 1962. Staff could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. At RDNS many programs were run, including: a Post Basic Course, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nursing, Haematology/Oncology Nursing, Palliative Care program, Diabetic Stabilization Program, Leg Ulcer Management Program, Wound Care Specialist Program, HIV/AIDS Nursing Care, Cystic Fibrosis Home Support, Veterans Home Care Program, Breast Cancer Support Program, Continence Management Program, Stomal Therapy Program, In-Home Lactation Support Program. RDNS Sisters attended several hospitals to observe and learn special care needed to some patients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients at home and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of patients in the rehabilitation ward. RDNS moved its Education Department from 452 St. Kilda Road to 448 St. Kilda Road in 1974. A Community Nursing Education Program was extended to student nurses from hospitals and to other nursing organizations. These Education programs kept the RDNS Sisters abreast of new techniques, such as changes in technology for e.g. new testing methods for detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin obtained a Post Basic Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing and included this area in her Education lectures. Sr. Daphne Geldard specialized in the area of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. These Sisters visited patients in District areas with the regular RDNS Sister when required. Every member of staff, both professional and non professional staff, received regular education in the Education Department. In 1980, a Home Health Aide pilot study, funded by the Federal Government, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and RDNS, with the program written and taught by Sr. Rowley, was evaluated as successful, and Home Health Aides were employed and worked in RDNS Centres under the supervision of the RDNS Sisters.In the left foreground of this black and white photograph is the partial view of two metal 4 prong sticks.To their right, seated on a long dark vinyl type couch, is a Medical Student who has short curly black hair; is wearing a white hospital coat over grey trousers, a white shirt, and a tie with small black and white squares. A stethoscope is folded in the pocket of his coat. He is turned toward the right of the photograph and is holding, on its side, a small bottle in his left hand and is pointing his right index finger to writing on its label. An elderly lady who is wearing glasses and has wavy grey hair is sitting to his right and is looking at the label on the bottle. She is wearing a black skirt and black sleeveless jacket over a black and white patterned blouse. Her hands are clasped in her lap. Sitting to her right, and facing the lady, is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister who has her long dark hair drawn back. She is wearing a white short sleeve gown over her uniform, and is holding a white oblong receptacle which holds a test tube, which has dark fluid in the bottom, and an eye dropper. In front of her, is a white 'inner tray' which is clipped onto the front edge of an open oblong black RDNS nursing case which is in the right foreground of the photograph sitting on a long, narrow, low table. On the table and to the left of the case a small white hospital drape runs along the table.Barry Sutton MA 24royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns patient care, rdns education

This photograph is taken in the lady's home, and the Medical Student and Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister are supervising the lady walking with two 4 prong sticks.From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in 1885, known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, the rehabilitation of patients to ensure they were able to live independently in their own homes was at the forefront of care given by their Trained Nurses (Sisters). As well as teaching and supervising the use of equipment, their Sisters taught them safe transfer techniques. These techniques were also taught to family members to enable them to care for their loved ones. RDNS at first held workshops given by a contracted private Physiotherapist before employing their own Physiotherapist in 1975 who taught staff the correct techniques, not only for safety of the patient, but to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and patient’s family members. When required the Physiotherapist accompanied the Sister on her visit to the patient in their home.On the left of this black and white photograph is the rear view of a Medical Student who is standing side-on looking towards the right, and smiling at an elderly lady. He has short dark curly hair and is wearing a white hospital style coat, which has a stethoscope folded in the pocket, over grey trousers. His right hand is resting on top of the lady's right hand which is on the top of a metal 4 prong stick. The lady, who is wearing glasses and has short wavy grey hair, is standing holding the tops of the metal 4 prong sticks which are standing either side of her on the grey carpet. She is smiling at the doctor. She is wearing a black skirt and a black sleeveless jacket over a black and white patterned blouse, and is wearing black shoes with her left shoe raised with a deep sole and heel. To her right, standing side-on facing her, is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister who has her long dark hair drawn back. She is wearing a white short sleeve gown and her right hand is behind the lady; her left hand is on the lady's right hand on top of the 4 prong stick. In the left background is a vinyl style grey couch and on the right is a window with open Venetian blinds and open long dark curtains on either side. An air-conditioner sits in the lower section of the window.Barry Sutton Quote 25royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns rehabilitation

This black and white photograph is taken in the Education Department at Western General Hospital. Sr, Nan Deakin is a Nurse Educator with RDNS and is giving a lecture about District Nursing to hospital student nurses before each nurse goes to RDNS Centres. This lecture prepares each nurse before she goes out for a week with an RDNS Sister to visit patients who are receiving nursing care in their home.During their training, Student nurses from several hospitals either attended the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Education Department, or, a RDNS Nurse Educator travelled to the appropriate hospital’s Education Department to educate the Trainees on District nursing through the RDNS Community Nursing Program. Following the lectures Students went to a RDNS Centre and each student accompanied a Trained nurse (Sister) for a week observing and gaining knowledge of all facets of nursing care in the home. This gave them an insight into the home conditions and situations patients faced after discharge from hospital. During 1971 there were 584 Student nurses who received District field experience with RDNS.This black and white photograph shows the back view of three rows of hospital student nurses in their white uniforms and caps, sitting at small tables facing toward, on the left, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Nurse Educator, Sister Nan Deakin, and their hospital Tutor Sister who is wearing her white uniform. The Sisters are standing in front of a large blackboard at the rear of the photograph facing the group. A smaller blackboard is attached to the wall to the left. On the right, the Tutor Sister has short dark curly hair and is standing side-on turned toward Sr. Deakin who is to her left. Sr. Deakin has short dark straight hair; is wearing glasses; and is wearing her RDNS uniform of a light grey skivvie under a darker V neck tunic style frock. She has her hands crossed and is holding sheets of paper in her right hand. There is a dark table to her left with a book and a short collapsible lectern on it. To the left of that is a row of short wooden cupboards and above that an open window with a horizontal striped curtain on the far end. The metal framed tables in front of the nurses have white wooden tops and have books, papers, pens and rulers on them.Barry Sutton MA 75royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, western general hospital students, sister nan deakin

Sister Ellen Anderson is the Supervisor of the Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS) Footscray Centre. She is wearing her RDNS uniform of a short sleeve white blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style dress. Sr. Anderson is showing two Student nurses from Western General Hospital the map with the areas covered by Footscray Centre. The map had different colour pins to identify streets where patients lived who were currently receiving nursing care from RDNS Sisters working in these areas (districts).During their training, Student nurses from several hospitals either attended the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Education Department, or, a RDNS Nurse Educator travelled to the appropriate hospital’s Education Department to educate the Trainees on District nursing through the RDNS Community Nursing Program. Following the lectures Students went to a RDNS Centre and each Student accompanied a Trained nurse (Sister) for a week observing and gaining knowledge of all facets of nursing care in the home. This gave them an insight into the home conditions and situations patients faced after discharge from hospital. During 1971 there were 584 Student nurses who received field experience with RDNS. From its inception as Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), in 1885, their Trained nurses (Nurses) worked in specific areas, 'districts'. The first Nurse worked east and west, between Victoria Parade and Flinders Street and, north and south, between Spencer Street and Spring Street. When a second Nurse was employed they divided this area at Elizabeth Street so each Nurse could attend to patients in the same area giving continuity of care. As the Society expanded, becoming Melbourne District Nursing Service, then, with Royal patronage, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) many Centres were opened throughout the Melbourne Metropolitan area and outer suburbs. The District nurse's areas (districts) grew and were divided within Shire boundaries for e.g. Knox 1, Knox 2, Knox 3, Knox 4, within the area of the Shire of Knox. A map covering the Centre’s Districts was attached to a wall, and its different colour pins identified streets where patients lived who were currently receiving nursing care from the RDNS Trained nurses (Sisters) working in these areas (districts).On the left of this black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Ellen Anderson, who has short dark curly hair and is wearing her RDNS uniform of a short sleeve white blouse under a dark V neck tunic style frock. She is standing side-on, towards the right of the photograph, and with her left hand is pointing to an area on a large map attached to the wall in the background. To her right, is a Student nurse who is facing Sr. Anderson, and looking at the area on the map. Under her white nurses cap, she has her long dark hair drawn back, and is wearing her hospital uniform of a short sleeve checked dress with white collar and cuffs; a nursing watch is attached to its upper left; her hands are clasped in front of her. To her right, is a male Student nurse who has collar length straight dark hair, and is wearing white trousers and a short sleeve white top with pens in the left upper pocket. He is looking at the areas on the map.. Barry Sutton MA 77 informationroyal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, rdns centre, rdns district map, sister ellen anderson

The photograph is taken at Western General Hospital. Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Nurse Educator, Sister Nan Deakin, after teaching the RDNS Community Nursing Education program to the Western General's two Student nurses is introducing them to Sister Ellen Anderson, Supervisor of the RDNS Footscray Centre. Sr. Anderson will arrange for the Students to go on District nursing visits with RDNS Trained nurses (Sisters) from Footscray Centre who administer nursing care in the community. Sister Deakin is wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a blue/grey V neck tunic style frock made of herringbone winter material. Sister Anderson is wearing the RDNS summer uniform of a white short sleeve blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock. The RDNS logo is seen on the upper left on both uniforms.During their training, Student nurses from several hospitals either attended the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Education Department, or, a RDNS Nurse Educator travelled to the appropriate hospital’s Education Department to educate the Trainees on District nursing through the RDNS Community Nursing Program. Following the lectures Students went to an RDNS Centre and each Student accompanied a Trained nurse (Sister) for a week observing and gaining knowledge of all facets of nursing care in the home. This gave them an insight into the home conditions and situations patients faced after discharge from hospital. During 1971 there were 584 student nurses who received field experience with RDNS. From its inception as Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), in 1885, their Trained nurses (Nurses) worked in specific areas, 'districts'. The first Nurse worked east and west, between Victoria Parade and Flinders Street and, north and south, between Spencer Street and Spring Street. When a second Nurse was employed they divided this area at Elizabeth Street so each Nurse could attend to patients in the same area giving continuity of care. As the Society expanded, becoming Melbourne District Nursing Service, then, with Royal patronage, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) many Centres were opened throughout the Melbourne Metropolitan area and outer suburbs. The District nurse's areas (districts) grew and were divided within Shire boundaries for e.g. Knox 1, Knox 2, Knox 3, Knox 4, within the area of the Shire of Knox. A map covering the Centre’s Districts was attached to a wall, and its different colour pins identified streets where patients lived who were currently receiving nursing care from the RDNS Trained nurses (Sisters) working in these areas (districts).On the far left of this black and white photograph is a male Student nurse, who has collar length, straight dark hair. He is wearing his hospital uniform of white trousers and top. To his right, is a Student nurse who is wearing her white nursing cap, with motif in the centre front, over her long drawn back dark hair. and her short sleeve uniform checked frock, with white two breasted buttons down it, and with white collar and cuffs. A nursing watch is attached to its upper left. Both are standing in the dark framed doorway of a room and are looking to the right and smiling at Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Nurse Educator, Sister Nan Deakin. She has short dark hair; is wearing glasses, and is wearing her RDNS uniform of a light grey skivvie under a darker V neck tunic style frock. To the right of her, is RDNS Sister Ellen Anderson who has short curly dark hair and is wearing her RDNS uniform of a white short sleeve blouse, under a dark V neck tunic style frock. They are standing side-on facing the Students. Barry Sutton MA 78royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, western general hospital students, sister nan deakin, sister ellen anderson

This black and white photograph is taken in the Education Department at the Western General Hospital where the Student nurses are doing their nursing training. Trained nurse (Sister) Nan Deakin, RDNS Nurse Educator, is checking information written by one of the Student nurses following a lecture she gave the students on Community Nursing. Following their time in the Education Department, the Student nurses will go to an RDNS Centre to receive education in the field from an RDNS Sister working in the community. During their training, Student nurses from several hospitals either attended the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Education Department, or, a RDNS Nurse Educator travelled to the appropriate hospital’s Education Department to educate the Trainees on District nursing through the RDNS Community Nursing Program. Following the lectures Students went to a RDNS Centre and each student accompanied a Trained nurse (Sister) for a week observing and gaining knowledge on all facets of nursing care in the home. This gave them an insight into the home conditions and situations patients faced after discharge from hospital. During 1971 there were 584 student nurses who received field experience with RDNS.This black and white photograph shows a group of eight female Hospital Student nurses, some partly hidden, and one male Student nurse, sitting randomly in a group about the room; each at a small metal framed, white wooden top table. The tables have books, printed sheets and white sheets of paper on them. The female Student nurses are wearing white nursing caps and checked uniforms with white collars and cuffs. They have a variety of hair styles, some with long hair drawn back. Standing to the right, in the centre of the group, is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Nurse Educator, Sister Nan Deakin, who has short dark hair and is wearing glasses. She is wearing her RDNS uniform of a light grey skivvie under a dark V neck tunic style dress with the RDNS logo on its upper left. She is looking down at a sheet of paper held by one of the Student nurses, who has short wavy dark hair. The nurse is holding the sheet of paper with both hands and is looking at it. The rear group of four students appear to be in discussion. The others are looking at sheets of paper on their tables. The male Student nurse, in the left foreground, has short dark hair and is wearing a white uniform. Closed dark concertina doors are in the background.Barry Sutton MA 79royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, western general hospital students, sister nan deakin

This photograph is taken in the Education Department at Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). Principal Nurse Educator, Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley is instructing the group in the Anatomy of the Brain. Jan Turski is a Trained nurse (Sister) working in the Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC) section of RDNS. Pat Walker is a Sister from Geelong, Lynne Lambert is a Sister from Qld, Paula McBreen is a Sister from St. Vincent's Hospital and Liz Seymour-Smith is a Sister from Qld. Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley is wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a blue/grey V neck tunic style frock made out of herringbone winter material.Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, later, in 1966, called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). From 1885, only Trained Nurses (Nurses), through the Hospital training system, were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. In 1961, Education programs commenced at MDNS with Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in In-service Education and established the RDNS Department of Community Nursing Education in 1962. Sisters could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. Many of their senior Sisters received Postgraduate diplomas from the College of Nursing in Community Health Nursing, Education, and Administration, and several travelled overseas visiting nursing organizations viewing their public health and District nursing systems. At RDNS many programs were run, including: a Post Basic Course, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nursing, Haematology/Oncology Nursing, Palliative Care program, Diabetic Stabilization Program, Leg Ulcer Management Program, Wound Care Specialist Program, HIV/AIDS Nursing Care, Cystic Fibrosis Home Support, Veterans Home Care Program, Breast Cancer Support Program, Continence Management Program, Stomal Therapy Program, In-Home Lactation Support Program and the Homeless Persons Program. RDNS Sisters attended several hospitals to observe and learn special care needed to some patients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of patients in the Rehabilitation ward. A Community Nursing Education Program was extended to student nurses from hospitals and to other nursing organizations. These Education programs kept the RDNS Sisters abreast of new techniques, such as changes in technology for e.g. new testing methods in detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin obtained a Post Basic Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing and included this area in her Education lectures. Sr. Daphne Geldard specialized in the area of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. These Sisters visited patients in District areas with the regular RDNS Sister when required. Every member of staff, both professional and non professional staff, received regular education in the Education Department. In 1980, a Home Health Aide pilot study, funded by the Federal Government, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and RDNS, with the program written and taught by Sr. Rowley, was evaluated as successful, and Home Health Aides were employed and worked in RDNS Centres under the supervision of the RDNS Sisters. This black and white photograph shows, standing L-R, a side-on view of Jan Turski, who has short, straight light hair and is wearing a dark cardigan and white and black hound's-tooth check skirt; she is facing right. Next is Pat Walker, who has short dark hair and is wearing a grey jumper over a check skirt. Then, Lynne Lambert, who has short wavy dark hair, and is wearing a white jumper, with a pendant hanging down it, over grey slacks. She is holding half of an Anatomical brain in her right hand. Next is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Principal Nurse Educator, Pat (Paddy) Rowley, who is looking towards the left of the photograph at the Anatomical brain held by Lynne Lambert. She is wearing glasses, has short dark hair and is wearing a light grey skivvie under a darker V neck tunic style frock. She is holding an open book in her hands. Next is Paula McBreen, who has shoulder length dark hair and is wearing a dark cardigan over a grey skivvie, with a pendant hanging down it, and a check skirt. She is smiling and looking to her right toward the others. On the far right, side-on and facing the others on the left of the photograph, is Liz Seymour-Smith who has shoulder length dark hair and is wearing a dark grey skivvie, and white, with dark check, slacks. In front of the group is a round dark wooden top table, which has a book and open folder on it, as well as a round white plastic base with the other half of the anatomical brain sitting in it.Barry Sutton MB 30royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, sister jan turski, sister pat (paddy) rowley, sister lynne lambert, sister pat walker, sister paula mcbreen, sister liz seymour-smith

This photograph is taken in the bedroom of the man's home in the suburbs of Melbourne. It depicts one of the types of nursing care given by Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Sisters in the community. The Sister is visiting the man's home and is administering an injection which has been ordered by a doctor. Glass syringes were used by the Society until the mid 1960s and were re sterilized for future use. After this time plastic disposable syringes were used.The Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), visited patients in their home and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing and to people of many cultures throughout its 130 years of expansion. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. Their patients ranged in age from babes, children, adults to the elderly and referrals were taken from Hospitals, General Practitioners and allied Health facilities. Some of the care provided was: – Post-Natal care given to mother and babe, Wound Care following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. Supervising and teaching Diabetic Care, including teaching and supervising people with Diabetes to administer their own Insulin, and administering Insulin to those unable to give their own injections. Administering other injections and setting up weekly medication boxes. The Sisters performed Catheterizations on adults suffering from conditions such as Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and Guillan-Barre Syndrome, and when required at school on children for e.g. those with Spina Bifida. The Sisters visited those requiring Cystic Fibrosis support and care; those requiring Haemo-Oncology care, including visiting children at school; those requiring Home Enteral Feeding care, and those requiring IV therapy at home and home Dialysis. Palliative Care was given including pain relief with the use of syringe drivers, personal care as needed, and advice and support to both patient and family. RDNS provided Stoma management to those needing Urostomy, Ileostomy and Colostomy care and those requiring Continence care. HIV/AIDS nursing care was provided; visits to Homeless Persons were made. Personal care was given to patients ranging in age and with varying mobility problems, such as those with MS, MND, Guillan-Barre Syndrome, Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Acquired Brain Injury, following a Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke), those with severe Arthritis and those with a form of Dementia. When necessary the elderly were assisted with personal care and advice given on safety factors with the use of hand rails, bath or shower seats, and hand showers. Rehabilitation with an aim towards independence remained at the forefront of the Sister’s minds and when possible using aids and instruction on safe techniques enabled the person to become fully independent. All care included giving advice and support to the patient and their Carers. The Sisters liaised with the persons Doctor, Hospital and allied Health personal when necessary.On the left of this black and white photograph, is a Melbourne District Nursing Society Sister who is standing side-on and leaning slightly forward as she administers an injection into the right upper arm of a gentleman to her right who is sitting up in bed resting against two white covered pillows. The male patient has short dark hair; is wearing glasses, and is looking up at the Sister. He is wearing a thick grey cardigan over a pale colour pyjama top which has dark piping; the lower part of his body is covered by a dark and light coloured check bed cover. The bed has a solid wooden headrest with a bed lamp attached to its upper right. The Sister who is wearing her uniform grey brimmed hat over her dark short hair, is wearing a white gown over her grey uniform, the collar of which is seen. Three fingers of her left hand are holding back the pushed up sleeve of the man's cardigan and she is holding a white swab between her thumb and first finger. She has a glass syringe resting in her right hand with her thumb and forefinger resting against the lower glass and metal section of the syringe; part of the metal needle is seen, the rest is inserted in the mans upper arm. On the far left of the photograph part of a dressing table mirror can be seen.' Rough Proof' Latrobe Studios Ref No. 59134-8melbourne district nursing service, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns - injection

Sister Beryl Hawker is a District Nurse working for the Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) and is leaving their Headquarters at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne to give nursing care to a patient in their home situated in a Melbourne suburb. She is wearing the MDNS winter uniform grey wool coat over her grey cotton dress with white collar. A red Maltese cross is attached to the centre of her grey wool beret. Her nursing case contains an apron, hand towel, thermometer, instruments, dressings and lotions.The Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), visited patients in their home and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing and to people of many cultures throughout its 130 years of expansion. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. Their patients ranged in age from babes, children, adults to the elderly and referrals were taken from Hospitals, General Practitioners and allied Health facilities. Some of the care provided was: – Post-Natal care given to mother and babe, Wound Care following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. Supervising and teaching Diabetic Care, including teaching and supervising people with Diabetes to administer their own Insulin, and administering Insulin to those unable to give their own injections. Administering other injections and setting up weekly medication boxes. The Sisters performed Catheterizations on adults suffering from conditions such as Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and Guillan-Barre Syndrome, and when required at school on children for e.g. those with Spina Bifida. The Sisters visited those requiring Cystic Fibrosis support and care; those requiring Haemo-Oncology care, including visiting children at school; those requiring Home Enteral Feeding care, and those requiring IV therapy at home and home Dialysis. Palliative Care was given including pain relief with the use of syringe drivers, personal care as needed, and advice and support to both patient and family. RDNS provided Stoma management to those needing Urostomy, Ileostomy and Colostomy care and those requiring Continence care. HIV/AIDS nursing care was provided; visits to Homeless Persons were made. Personal care was given to patients ranging in age and with varying mobility problems, such as those with MS, MND, Guillan-Barre Syndrome, Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Acquired Brain Injury, following a Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke), those with severe Arthritis and those with a form of Dementia. When necessary the elderly were assisted with personal care and advice given on safety factors with the use of hand rails, bath or shower seats, and hand showers. Rehabilitation with an aim towards independence remained at the forefront of the Sister’s minds and when possible using aids and instruction on safe techniques enabled the person to become fully independent. All care included giving advice and support to the patient and their Carers. The Sisters liaised with the persons Doctor, Hospital and allied Health personal when necessary.Sister Beryl Hawker, who has short dark hair, is smiling as she is leaving Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Headquarters. She is wearing the MDNS uniform of an ankle length double breasted grey wool coat and wool beret with a central Maltese cross. Part of the MDNS insignia is seen at the top of her left sleeve. In her right hand she is carrying a rectangular nursing case and a light colour soft material bag. She is standing in front of the open metal spike gate between the two square grey concrete pillars of the gateway; the black numbers '452' are written on a white background on the top section of each pillar. A spiked metal fence is attached and running to the right of the right pillar; attached to this and close to the pillar, is a white plaque with black capital letters reading: 'Melbourne District Nursing Service Headquarters'. In the background is a paved path leading to part of a building with part of three arches seen and above this some concrete balustrade. A large pedestal concrete flower urn sits next to the partially seen steps leading up to the building. Some low bushes are seen behind the fence and in front of the building.59134-11melbourne district nursing service, mdns, mdns uniform, mdns headquarters, sister beryl hawker, royal district nursing service, rdns

The MDNS Sisters are packing their belongs ready to move from their current Nurses Home at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood to their new Nurses Home and Headquarters situated at 452 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, then known as 'Airlie'. From its founding in 1885 until 1891 the Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) worked from their own homes which were located in the vicinity of their areas (districts). The Committee meetings were held at the Religious Tract Society rooms at Queen’s walk, off Swanston Street and then at the Library Room at the Melbourne Town Hall. The Annual General Meeting was held at the Town Hall. In November 1891 MDNS was able to rent a two story terraced house at 66 Cardigan Street, Carlton, at £65 a year, which contained accommodation for three Nurses and one pupil nurse as well as being used as their Headquarters. They left from their Nurses Home each morning and returned at the end of their shift to write up their book work before retiring for the day. Three years later they moved into a larger terraced house at 49 Drummond Street Carlton which was rented at ‘a very moderate rental’. There was a Board room, apartments for the Nurses and pupil nurse, a large dispensary which patients could attend each evening to have prescriptions signed and bottles refilled with ‘homely remedies’ and elixirs, which were administered for e.g. to Consumptive cases. Doctor’s prescriptions were filled at the Pharmacy. Cupboards containing donated blankets and bedclothes for needy patients were kept in this room, and it was here where the Nurses kept their nursing bags which were refilled at the end of each shift ready for any emergency and for the next day. A list of Doctors the Nurses could call was kept by the telephone. The home also had a kitchen where nourishing soup was made and distributed twice a week to the needy. Milk was also distributed when needed. In 1902 they moved into rented premises at 188 Leicester Street, Carlton and two years later, in 1904, to premises at 5 Royal Terrace, Nicholson Street, Fitzroy where they remained for ten years. In June 1914 at last the Society had sufficient funds to purchase their own terraced premises, ‘Floraston’ 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood which was their Headquarters and Nurses Home. In 1926 the After-Care Home for recovering patients, (later called After-Care Hospital) was built by the Society next door, running from 41-47 Victoria Parade (became No. 45). There were now two divisions with the After Care having their owned Trained nurses (Sisters) and the District Division of Trained nurses (Sisters) who continued to live at No. 39. In November 1953 the Sisters working in the District Nursing Division moved into their new Headquarters and Nurses Home at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. In 1957 this Division changed its name to the Melbourne District Nursing Service when it separated from the After-Care Hospital. It was given Royal patronage in 1966 and became Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). As it expanded, and now with Centres opening throughout the suburbs, the Nurses Home at 452 closed and those rooms used for administrative purposes. It now had outlying districts to service, and with a full fleet of District cars, the Sisters lived in their own homes and visited their closest District Centre each morning to collect their work for the day and returned there at the end of their community duties to do their administrative work. On April the 1st 1996 RDNS Head Office relocated to 31 Alma Road, St. Kilda. Standing in a semi circle of this photograph are 5 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Sisters in their long sleeve grey uniform dresses which have a belt, peaked collars and white buttons down the centre. They are wearing their grey brimmed hats with a central Maltese cross on the light colour headband over their short dark curled hair. From Left to Right are Sisters Marianne Metcalf who is smiling and is holding a tennis racket and soft sided oblong travel bag which has two leather straps and handle in her right hand; it is resting on a closed case, which has two leather straps across the lid; this sits in front of her. Next is Gerda Oppenheim who is looking serious and has her right hand on the top of the lid of an open case in front of her, then Beryl Rowley, who is smiling and has her hands on a narrow white metal horizontal pole which has a vertical pole attached. Next is Marcia Parrat who is smiling and is holding a piece of white linen on the open case, and next, on the far right, is Florence Hoey who is holding a piece of white linen on top of an open hard leather travelling bag which is sitting in front of her next to the closed case. melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mdns headquarters, sister marianne metcalf, sister gerda oppenheim, sister beryl rowley, sister marcia parrat, sister florence hoey, royal district nursing service, rdns

This photograph depicts a Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sister administering an injection to a gentleman in his own home in the suburbs of Melbourne. The Sister is wearing the MDNS winter grey uniform short sleeve dress and grey wool beret with a central red Maltese cross. Glass syringes were used until the mid 1960s when plastic disposable syringes were then used.The Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), then Melbourne District Nursing Service from 1957, and from 1966 known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), visited patients in their home and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing and to people of many cultures throughout its 130 years of expansion. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. Their patients ranged in age from babes, children, adults to the elderly and referrals were taken from Hospitals, General Practitioners and allied Health facilities. Some of the care the Sisters provided is as follows: – Post-Natal care given to mother and babe, Wound Care following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. Supervising and teaching Diabetic Care, including teaching and supervising people with Diabetes to administer their own Insulin, and administering Insulin to those unable to give their own injections. Administering other injections and setting up weekly medication boxes. The Sisters performed Catheterizations on adults suffering from conditions such as Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and Guillan-Barre Syndrome, and when required at school on children for e.g. those with Spina Bifida. The Sisters visited those requiring Cystic Fibrosis support and care; those requiring Haemo-Oncology care, including visiting children at school; those requiring Home Enteral Feeding care, and those requiring IV therapy at home and home Dialysis. Palliative Care was given including pain relief with the use of syringe drivers, personal care as needed, and advice and support to both patient and family. The Sisters provided Stoma management to those needing Urostomy, Ileostomy and Colostomy care and those requiring Continence care. HIV/AIDS nursing care was provided; visits to Homeless Persons were made. Personal care was given to patients ranging in age and with varying mobility problems, such as those with MS, MND, Guillan-Barre Syndrome, Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Acquired Brain Injury, to those following a Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke), those with severe Arthritis and those with a form of Dementia. When necessary the elderly were assisted with personal care and advice given on safety factors with the use of hand rails, bath or shower seats, and hand showers. Rehabilitation with an aim towards independence remained at the forefront of the Sister’s minds and when possible using aids and instruction on safe techniques enabled the person to become fully independent. All care included giving advice and support to the patient and their Carers. The Sisters liaised with the persons Doctor, Hospital and allied Health personal when necessary. This photograph depicts Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sister Mary Maxwell administering an injection into the left upper arm of Mr Cannestra. On the left of the photograph Mr Cannestra is sitting on the padded arm of his patterned couch; he has his left arm extended. His head, which is bald with some white hair at the side and rear, is turned towards the Sister who is standing on his right. He is wearing a grey shirt and his grey trousers are held up with braces. Sister Maxwell is wearing a white gown over her grey uniform with the collar seen. She is wearing a grey wool beret with central Maltese cross, over her short, dark hair. She is standing beside the patient and her left hand is holding his left arm with his shirt sleeve rolled up to expose his upper arm. She is holding the angled barrel of a glass and metal syringe in her right hand and some of the needle can be seen against Mr. Cannestra's arm. In the background the wall is covered with a striped wallpaper, and to the right part of a long floral curtain can be seen. To the right in the foreground, a round dark tray with jar, small bottle containing the medication for injection, a glass and a white cloth, sit on a small round table with a white and patterned tablecloth.La Trobe Street Studios. Reference number 59134-21melbourne district nursing service, mdns, mdns - injection, royal district nursing service, rdns, sister mary maxwell, mr cannestra

This photograph depicts a MDNS Sister visiting a male patient to give him nursing care. He is lying in bed in his home and the Sister is applying a bandage to his left wrist. Under her white gown the Sister is wearing the MDNS winter uniform of a grey dress with peaked collars and grey wool beret which has a central red Maltese cross attached. The Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, provided wound care to their patients who ranged in age from the very young to the elderly. The patients required their wounds to be dressed following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. As research developed better products and dressing materials, the methods and medication applied to wounds changed. MDNS received Royal patronage in 1966 and as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), the Education department developed wound care programs, such as the Leg Ulcer Management Program to provide their Trained nurses (Sister) with methods of best quality care. They ran a program for Wound Care Specialists who made assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field as needed. The Sisters liaised with the patient’s Doctors and hospitals to provide information on the progress of patient’s wounds and to receive any change of wound care from the Doctors. Standing on the left of this photograph is a Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sister who is wearing a white gown over her grey uniform, the collar of which can be seen. She is wearing her uniform grey wool beret over her short dark curly hair and is smiling as, with her outstretched left hand, she supports the partly bandaged extended left arm of a gentleman who is sitting up in bed to her right; his right arm is resting on the bed and supporting him as he is partly turned towards the Sister. She has part of a rolled bandage in her right hand. The male patient, who has short dark hair, is looking at the camera and smiling. He is wearing a white and striped pyjama top and his lower body is covered by a patterned bed cover. Part of a pillow with check pillow case sits flat behind him and part of a wooden horizontal slat bedhead is seen. On the wall behind the bed hangs a framed photograph of a couple on their wedding day. Patterned curtains cover the window in the left rear of the photograph.John Gallagher photography. 4 Benares Street, Mitcham Victoria WU 2568 No. 4-4melbourne district nursing service, mdns, mdns wound care, royal district nursing service, rdns