Sister J. Faust has dressed a wound on the ladies ankle and is applying a blue-line bandage. The photograph is taken in the lady's home. The MDNS uniform at that time was a grey frock, and stiffened brimmed grey felt hat with a light grey band and a red Maltese cross in the centre of the band. 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. 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 programs, such as the Leg Ulcer Management Program, to provide their Trained nurses (Sisters) with methods of best quality care. 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. RDNS introduced a Wound Care Specialist program and these Sisters did assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field. Black and white photograph of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) visiting Sister J. Faust, who is wearing a white gown and a grey brimmed hat over her dark curled hair. Part of her grey uniform frock is seen below the gown. She is applying a light coloured bandage to the right ankle of an elderly female patient. The lady, who has dark curled hair, and is wearing a grey frock, apron, and black cardigan is seen seated side on, on a wooden chair to the right of the Sister. She has her right leg extended and resting on a small low table, her left leg is bent to the floor.. The Sisters open case is seen on a small table to the rear of the lady and a walking stick is to the left against the door frame. A dark curtain hangs in the doorway. A large white wash bowl is seen in the lower left of the photograph. A glass jar with scissor blades into a liquid can be seen on a cabinet to the left of.Sister Faust. To the right of the photograph a partial white covered bed can be seen with a table over it with papers and a magnifying glass. Name of Sister on rear of photograph.wound care, melbourne district nursing society, royal district nursing service, rdns, mdns, sister j. faust

This is style of nursing case and type of equipment used by the Sisters of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) in the 1970s. The Sisters worked throughout the Melbourne inner and outer suburbs visiting patients to administer nursing care in their homes and other arranged venues. 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 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 as necessary.Black deep case made of man made material. it has a raised lid with attached handle. The metal section between the lid and body of the case has metal clasps attached to it which open and close within this section. The deep section contains a cotton bag sewn in sections which contain artery forceps, dissecting forceps, scissors, thermometer, wooden spatula. Shown are a packet of Band-Aids, plastic bottle containing chlorhexidine, jar containing soft-soap and jar containing Saf-sol which were carried within the body of the case.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns equipment, melbourne district nursing society

This photograph shows one of the aspects of nursing care given by Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sisters who worked in the community. The Sister attending had received instructions for care of this toddler's wound from a Doctor. The Sister is using a dressing tray which was sterilized at the RDNS centre. At the time of this photograph many hospitals provided wound dressings for their patients when they returned home. If not attached to a hospital, the family bought their own dressings, though the Sister carried spare dressings in their cases if needed at the time of their visit. The Trained 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. 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 programs, such as Wound Care Programs, to provide their Trained nurses (Sisters)) with methods of best quality care. 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. RDNS introduced Wound Care Specialists who carried out assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field. Black and white photograph showing a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister, who has sort dark hair and is wearing a short sleeved white gown over her uniform; the sleeves of her grey uniform skivvie are seen. She is sitting side-on with her left hand resting on the right leg of a seated dark curly haired toddler; her right hand is on a bandage which is from ankle to thigh on the left leg of the toddler. The toddler is wearing a T-shirt with a pattern on the front, and is sitting on a floral cover in a room in her home. At the rear of the photograph a floral covered table is seen with an open dressing tray on a sterile drape; a small jar and bottle are seen on the table. rdns, royal district nursing service, mdns, melbourne district nursing society, rdns wound care

This photograph shows one of the aspects of nursing care carried out by the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). It shows wound care being given by a Sister to a patient in her own home. The bandage being applied is called a 'Blue line bandage'. which gives firm pressure to the ladies leg.The Trained 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. 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 programs, such as Wound Care Program and the Leg Ulcer Management Program, to provide their Sisters with methods of best quality care. 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 Doctor. RDNS introduced Wound Care Specialists who did assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field. On the left of this black and white photograph is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister, with short dark hair and wearing a white gown, leaning over and bandaging the right leg of a lady. The bandage has a line around the centre. The lady is looking down at the bandaging; she is wearing glasses, and is wearing a dark padded dressing gown edged with white. The lady has her other leg bandaged and a dressing on her forehead. Her right arm is in a collar and cuff sling with her jacket covering most of her arm; the first finger of her left hand is bandaged. She is in her home and is sitting on a floral covered chair, with a white towel over its right arm. The lady has both legs elevated. mdns, melbourne district nursing society, rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns wound care

This photograph depicts a Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), Sister administering an injection, which has been ordered by a Doctor, into the left arm of a gentleman who is sitting in a wheelchair in his home. This photograph depicts one of the types of nursing care given by the trained nurses working at RDNS in the late 1960s. The syringe being used is a disposable type which came into use in the middle 1960s.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 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.To the right in the black and white photograph is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister who is wearing a white gown over her uniform frock, and wearing a peaked grey uniform hat and black shoes. She is standing side-on facing a man on her left who is sitting in a wheelchair. She is holding the barrel of a syringe in her right hand and has her left hand on the end of the plunger of the syringe; the needle of the syringe is in the left upper arm of a gentleman. He is on the left of the photograph and has short dark hair; is wearing dark trousers and a dark patterned shirt and is watching as the Sister gives the injection. A white towel is draped over part of his left arm,. A small table, with nursing equipment on the top, stands beside the wheelchair and in front of the Sister.Photographers stamp and the word 'Publicity'rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns treatment - injection

This photograph depicts one of the forms of nursing care given by Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS), Sisters in the home of a patient. In this photograph, the Sister is visiting the home of a lady who is confined to a Negative Pressured Ventilator, also known as an 'Iron Lung', which assists her to breathe. The Sister gave both physical and emotional care to the patient, as well as support and advice to those who were caring for her.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 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, Poliomyelistis, 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.Black and white photograph showing a Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sister, who has short dark hair; is wearing a white gown over her uniform and her grey peaked hat with attached RDNS badge. She is attending to a female patient who is lying in a Negative Pressure Ventilator in her home. The Sister is standing behind the Negative Pressure Ventilator, known as an 'Iron Lung', with her left arm extended holding the lid open. The lady is in the foreground, and is lying with her head towards the left of the photograph. She has short dark hair and lies on the bed of the Ventilator with a neck ring visible. Her head is resting on a white covered pillow. Part of a dark coloured pleated curtain can be seen in the right hand side background of the photographPhotographer's stamprdns, royal district nursing service, patient care, mdns, melbourne district nursing service, mdns nursing care - negative pressure ventilator, 'iron lung'

The RDNS Sister is applying a splint to the lady's leg after attending to any other nursing care required. This photograph depicts one of the types of nursing care carried out by the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). 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 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, Poliomyelistis, 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.On the left of this black and white photograph is a Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), Sister wearing a white gown over her grey uniform. She is bending over and slightly towards her right; her face is not visible, only the crown of her grey peaked hat is seen. On her right is a lady sitting in a wheelchair with her right leg extended resting on a bed. The Sister has her left hand on, with her fingers holding the strap, and her right hand on the strap below, of a Splint on the upper right leg of the lady who is watching the procedure. The lady has short dark hair and is wearing a grey buttoned up cardigan and dark skirt; she is wearing a black shoe on the foot of her extended leg. Her left leg is bent at the knee and the top of a splint with some of the straps are visible. Part of the bedspread covering the bed has a grey and white pattern. A pair of crutches and a dark drape can be seen behind the Sister and wheelchair. photographer stamprdns, royal district nursing service, rdns patient care

Sister McDonald is visiting a patient to give them nursing care as requested. The photograph depicts the RDNS uniform in 1967. Her coat with the blue background Royal District Nursing Service material badge attached to the top of each sleeve, is worn over a grey cotton uniform dress.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 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, Poliomyelistis, 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.Black and white photograph of Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS,) Sister B. McDonald, wearing her grey uniform coat with the words 'Royal District Nursing Service' written in white on a dark curved material badge attached to the left upper sleeve; she is wearing her grey peaked uniform hat over her dark short hair. She is carrying her rectangular nursing case in her left hand and is opening the gate of a tall white picket fence before entering a patient's home. Number '19' is on the right hand side gate post. Trees can be seen behind the fence on either side of the gate. A two storey white attached house is in the background. The grey front door with white surround, can be seen on the ground floor. Two posts are supporting a balcony which protrudes from the top storey; a safety rail runs around its outer edge. A closed colonial door can be seen behind the balcony on the upper storey.Photographers stamp. Quote No. GE 42rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, sister betty mcdonald

RDNS Sister, Betty. McDonald, is about to enter the home of a patient to administer nursing care.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 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, Poliomyelistis, 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.Black and white photograph of Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), Sister B. McDonald, who is wearing her grey uniform coat, with RDNS insignia on the upper sleeve, and her peaked grey hat over her dark short hair. She is holding her rectangular nursing case in her left hand. Her right arm is through the long handles of a black bag which is hanging under it, and her hand is on the top of the gate; Number '39' is attached to the top of the gate post. A tall broken paling fence, with many gaps between the palings, can be seen running along the edge of the footpath to the left and right of the gate. The fence is leaning over in places. Bushes can be seen behind the fence and part of a white building is seen in the background.Photographers stamp. Quote No. GE 5rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, rdns patient care, sister betty mcdonald

Sister McDonald is visiting a patient in her home to administer nursing care. 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 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, Poliomyelistis, 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.Black and white photograph of Royal District Nursing Sister, (RDNS), Sister B. McDonald, wearing her grey uniform coat, and her grey peaked hat over her dark short hair and is carrying her rectangular nursing case in her left hand. She is standing on the wooden veranda between the open wire door and the house; her right hand is knocking on the main door of a patient's home. Behind her, an electricity meter can be seen on the wall of the house behind the wire door. The door of the house sits near the corner of the horizontal weatherboard house, whose weatherboards can be seen to the left and right of Sister McDonald. Part of a fluted veranda post can be seen to the right of the photograph and two sheets of corrugated iron can be seen in the foreground.Photographers stamp. 'Quote No. GE 55rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, rdns patient care, sister betty mcdonald

The photograph shows a RDNS Sister driving her RDNS car along a dirt road to reach a patient to administer nursing care. It shows the typical conditions of the roads the RDNS trained nurses encountered in some districts. The photograph also depicts an Australian made Holden car of the mid 1960s Melbourne District Nursing Society, later Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) has had various modes of transport over the last 130 years. At first their Trained nurses (Nurses) walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of central Melbourne. As the Society expanded bicycles, public transport, District cars, the use of a Motor Auxiliary, the Trained nurses (Sisters) own cars, and even a motorcycle were used, and all these forms were intermingled until RDNS had its own fleet of vehicles. By 2009 there were 598 cars in the fleet and the Sisters travelled 9 million 200,000 kilometres – this is equivalent to 12 trips to the moon and back. 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 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, Poliomyelistis, 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.In the centre of this black and white photograph is a Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), Sister at the wheel of her RDNS Holden car, which has a black rear Victorian number plate with 'JPH - 516' written in white letters. Through the back window you can see part of the Sister's uniform and her peaked hat worn over her short curled hair. Her left hand is on the upper part of the steering wheel. The dirt road on which she is travelling has mud and some grass tufts either side of it. On the right of the car is a hip roof brick house which has a single storey front area with attached two storey section at the rear. A short open Besser brick fence, with a white wooden gate, is seen running from the front of the property to the house, and beyond this a clothes line and shed. Beyond this, part of a tall paling fence is seen from the front of the property to the shed. The top section of the next brick house is seen beyond the fence; it has a white railed veranda along part of it and the house has a flat roof.Photographers stamp. Quote No. GE 90rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns transport, rdns patient care

The Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sister is massaging the left hand of the patient. The Sister is wearing her grey cotton uniform dress and red cardigan under her white gown. A red Maltese cross emblazoned on her peaked hat. 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 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, Poliomyelistis, 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.On the left of the black and white photograph is a a lady laying in her bed, and to her right is a Melbourne District Nursing Service, (MDNS), Sister sitting beside her. The Sister is wearing glasses, and has a white gown over her uniform; with the grey collar of her uniform and dark sleeves of her cardigan in view. The Sister is wearing her grey peaked uniform hat, with a Maltese cross emblazoned in the centre front, over her short dark curled hair. The Sister has her hands on the left hand of the lady, who is wearing glasses, has white curly hair, and is wearing a crocheted shawl over her grey nightgown. Her head is resting on the pillow on her bed which has a dark bedhead, .Light coloured bedding covers most of her body.Photographers stamp and 'Quote No. DW 86'mdns, melbourne district nursing service, mdns patient care

Sister Coates is working as a RDNS Liaison Officer in a Hospital and is sharing information with the Occupational Health Sister.Liaison had occurred between doctors and the Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in August 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Trained nursing staff, but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the Hospital doctor, via the Liaison sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District Sister. Liaising also occurred between District field staff and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital.Black and white photograph of Sister Moira Coates, Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), Liaison Sister who is standing side on in the left foreground of the photograph. She has dark short hair, and is wearing her grey short sleeved uniform with an RDNS cloth badge at the top of her right sleeve, and her grey peaked uniform hat. She is in a Hospital and is holding an open leaflet in her left hand which she is showing to an Occupational Health Sister who is on her right, and is wearing her white uniform and white veil. Part of a trolley, with equipment on the top and bottom shelf, can be seen in the background on the right hand side. Closed Venetian blinds are seen in the background on the left hand side of the photograph.Photographers stamp and 'Quote No. GH 8'rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns liaison, sister moira coates

Sister Gibbs is liaising with Dr. Gibbs to discuss his patients who are attended by RDNS.Liaison had occurred between doctors and the Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in August 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sisters, but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the hospital doctor, via the Liaison sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District sister. Liaising also occurred between District field staff and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital.On the left of this black and white photograph is Sister Melanie Gibbs of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). To her right is Dr. L.B. Witts who is wearing glasses; has short dark hair and is wearing a grey suit, white shirt and dark tie; he has a stethoscope around his neck with the end on his lap. He is sitting 'side on' at the end of a low cabinet with three drawers seen.and is turned toward Sister Gibbs. His right arm and hand are resting on an open book on the top of the cabinet. Sr. Gibbs, who has dark curled hair, is wearing her grey RDNS uniform coat with the RDNS insignia on the upper sleeve, and peaked hat. She is seated 'side on' in the photograph facing Dr. Witts. Her dark leather rectangular shaped case, with RDNS written in the top third, is resting on Dr. Witts' low cabinet. On the left in the background sit a set of four light grey metal drawers above a set of dark drawers and part of an open Venetian blind over a window is to the right.Photographer's Stamp. Quote No. HN 47melbourne district nursing society, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, patient care, rdns liaison, sister melanie gibbs, dr l.b. witts

The Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters are using a hoist to transfer a lady who has limited mobility into her wheelchair. The photograph is taken in the lady's home. From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), in 1885, known as the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, equipment was loaned and demonstrated to patients, and their family members, to enable them to care for their loved ones in their home. RDNS employed a Physiotherapist who taught RDNS staff the correct transferring techniques. New lifting techniques, such as the use of a hoist, was taught to RDNS staff and were used in patient's homes to undertake safe transfer of the patient and to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and family members. 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 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, Poliomyelitis, 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.Coloured photograph showing Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Helen Pelosi on the left hand side. She has short dark hair; is wearing a a light blue apron over her RDNS uniform, and is moving a lady in a hoist to a wheelchair. Another RDNS Sister, who has short blonde hair, is wearing her RDNS uniform of Royal blue V neck tunic style frock, with part of her white blouse seen and a navy blue cardigan. She has her right arm extended towards the top of a hoist. The lady is laughing and is suspended in a sling attached to the metal hoist. Around her neck is a white scarf with blue dots which is hanging over her red jumper. She is wearing a blue dress and long dark socks. Both her hands are extended upward holding onto the metal cross bar of the hoist. Part of a wheelchair is seen in the left foreground. Open long gold curtains with voile curtains in the centre can be seen in the background.royal district nursing service, rdns, patient care, rdns equipment, sister helen pelosi

A Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sister is giving nursing care to a lady in her own home. The Sister is wearing the grey uniform dress of that era under her gown. Her grey beret has a red Maltese cross applied to its centre front. The Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Melbourne District Nursing Service and from 1966 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, Poliomyelitis, 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.Black and white photograph of a Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS), Sister attending a lady in the bedroom of her home. The Sister, who is smiling, is wearing a white gown over her grey uniform with part of the collar visible, and her grey uniform beret over her short dark hair. She is standing to the right of the bed looking at the lady, and has her right arm extended touching the pillow on the bed. With her other hand she is holding the right hand of the lady. The lady, who is smiling, has short dark swept back hair and is lying on her left side against two pillows on the bed; she is covered with light coloured bed coverings, A metal type, pale colour with dark rim, wash basin is sitting on a white wooden chair to the front of the Sister. A towel is hanging over the back of the chair. On the bottom left of the bed is a magazine with the word 'Woman' and below this a picture of a cat, on its cover. A small table with a lamp on it is behind the Sister and part of a concertina door to her rear right.Photographer Stamp. Quote No. 2568melbourne district nursing service, mdns, mdns patient care

This photograph is taken in a Hospital. RDNS Liaison Officer, Sister Pat Holdsworth is giving the hospital patient, who was to be seen by RDNS District staff on his discharge, a leaflet explaining what to expect at the time of the first RDNS visit. Sr. Hodsworth is wearing the RDNS summer uniform of that era, which was a white blouse worn under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock with the RDNS insignia emblazoned on the upper left.Liaison had occurred between doctors and the nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service,(RDNS), nursing staff, but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the hospital doctor, via the Liaison sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District sister. Liaising also occurred between District field staff and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital.Standing on the left of the black and white photograph is a Hospital Sister, with her dark hair drawn up, and wearing her white uniform and white cap, To her right is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Pat Holdsworth, who has short wavy hair; is wearing glasses, and wearing a V neck tunic style frock over a short sleeve white blouse.. She is holding a paper in her left hand which is extended over the side rail on a patient's bed. Her right arm is also extended over the bed rail and she is pointing out information on the paper to the gentleman patient who is sitting up in bed. The man has blonde shoulder length hair and is wearing a light coloured long sleeve striped gown.. His hands are resting on the white bed covers and his left wrist is bandaged. The bed has bed rails attached on each side. Another hospital staff member, a lady with dark hair who is wearing a white hospital style coat, is on the right hand side of the bed with her arms resting on the right hand bed rail..melbourne district nursing society, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns liaison, melbourne district nursing service, sister pat holdsworth

This photograph shows a Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sister is visiting the lady in her own home and is giving medication in the form of an injection which has been ordered by a Doctor. The Sisters is wearing her grey cotton uniform frock under her white gown and her grey peaked hat. The Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Melbourne District Nursing Service and from 1966 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 Trained nurses (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, Poliomyelitis, 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.Black and white photograph showing a Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS), Sister on the left of the photograph giving an injection into the upper right arm of a lady. On the right of the photograph is an elderly lady who is sitting on a chair, she has white short curly hair; is wearing glasses and wearing a black and white patterned dress. Her head is turned to her right and she is smiling at the Sister.as she holds up the sleeve of her dress with her left hand. The MDNS Sister, who is wearing her uniform peaked grey hat over her short blond hair and wearing a white gown over her grey uniform with peaks just seen, is smiling at the lady. In both hands she.is holding a glass and metal syringe; the needle is inserted in the lady's arm.Photographer stamprdns, royal district nursing service, melbourne district nursing service, mdns, mdns patient care - injection

RDNS Sister Pilmore is visiting a babe and mother to administer Post Natal nursing care and give health advice. 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 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, Poliomyelitis, 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.On the left of the black and white photograph is the side on view of a seated Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Kaye Pilmore, who is visiting a mother and her babe in their home. On the right the mother, who is seated, has dark shoulder length straight hair, and is wearing a white sleeveless frock. She is looking at the Sister while she holds her dark haired baby on her knee. The babe is wearing a light coloured top. Sister, Pilmore who has dark short straight hair, is wearing her RDNS summer uniform of a white short sleeve blouse under a dark V neck tunic style frock with the RDNS insignia on the upper left. She is holding a pen in her left hand. Closed checked long curtains are seen in the background of the photograph. The partial dark haired head of another person can be seen in the left hand side foreground.. G 155 is stamped in green inkrdns, royal district nursing service, rdns patient care, sister kaye pilmore, rdns domiciliary infant and maternal care (dimc)

Two Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters are assisting a young male patient who has a movement disorder, to change position in his reclined chair.The Trained nurses (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 the Trained nurse (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, Poliomyelitis, 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.A coloured photograph showing two Royal District Nursing (RDNS) Sisters with a young male patient who is lying in a reclined chair. The Sister standing on his left is smiling; she has short straight dark hair, and is wearing a RDNS light blue apron over her royal blue dress and darker blue long sleeve cardigan. The Sister on the right hand side of the patient's chair is laughing. She has blonde hair and is slightly bent over the chair as her left hand is supporting his left leg. She is wearing the RDNS summer uniform of the day - a white short sleeve blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock. Her right arm is bent and resting on top of the patient's chair and pillow. The young man has short dark hair and is smiling and looking towards the left of the photograph. He is wearing a dark blue long sleeve top and his right arm is extended toward the Sister on the left hand side of the photograph. His legs are over his coverings with his left leg bent at the knee. He is wearing light coloured pants and has a pink and white striped slipper on his foot. His pillow is white, and coverings seen are blue and white check, white, and a pale pink sheepskin. A wood board wall is in the background. A vase of flowers are standing on the part of a round low table that can be seen in the right hand rear corner. A pale lilac wall can be seen on the right hand side. A small section of a dark patterned carpet can be seen.royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns uniform, rdns patient care

The Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Altona Centre was situated at Blackshaws Road, Altona. This photograph is a pictorial record of the staff at Altona Centre in the 1990s.Gradually over the years, Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966 when they received Royal patronage, opened Centres throughout the Melbourne Metropolitan area and outer suburbs with Heidelberg Centre opening in 1971. Their Trained nurses (Sisters) left from these Centres each morning to carry out their nursing visits in a specific area (district), taking any sterilized equipment needed with them. They returned at the end of the day to write up their patients nursing histories, clean and reset any equipment used ready for sterilization, and contact other medical and community personal as necessary. The Trained nurses (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 their Trained nurses (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, Poliomyelitis, 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.The coloured photograph shows 29 female staff of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Altona Centre. The rear and centre rows of staff are standing and the front row of staff are kneeling. They are outside a grey brick building with a flat roof. A white sign is on the right hand upper corner of the building and has the words, written in blue capital letters, "Royal District Nursing Service Altona Centre". Part of a window can be seen beneath this. Part of two other windows can be seen in the centre and to the left of the building. Most Sisters are wearing RDNS uniforms, some with a short sleeve white with a blue pattern dress and a red belt. Others with a white with pattern blouse and dark blue skirt, and some have a red sleeveless jumper over their uniform, and some are wearing a dark blue cardigan or long sleeve dark blue jumper. Three staff are wearing day wear, one with a purple blouse and black skirt, another with a white blouse and pale blue skirt and the third wearing a white blouse, brown cardigan and bone slacks.. royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns centre, rdns uniform

The RDNS Sister is from Camberwell Centre and is visiting the lady in her home where she is attending to wound care needed on the lady's left foot. She has already attended to the wound care required on the ladies right foot. The Sister had used a dressing tray which, contained a bowl for lotion, the forceps and swabs which had been sterilized at Camberwell Centre. Sterile dressing material had been used to clean and dress the wound. The scissors had been sterilized before use..The Trained 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. 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 programs, such as the Leg Ulcer Management Program to provide their Sisters with methods of best quality care. They introduced RDNS Wound Care Specialists who did assessments and provided advice and support to the District nurses working in the field. 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. A black and white photograph showing a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister looking down at the white wound dressing which is over the toes of an elderly lady's left foot. Her left hand is holding it, while her right hand is applying tape. The Sister has short, dark, curly hair and is wearing a white gown over her uniform. The lady has short, slightly curled, light grey hair and is wearing a light coloured patterned dressing gown over light coloured pyjamas. She is watching the procedure as she sits on a chair with her right hand bent up to rest near her ear. Both her legs are elevated and resting on a white surgical drape. There is also a white dressing over the toes of the lady's right foot. In the left foreground, part of a dressing tray, two forceps and a pair of scissors are seen on the sterile drape protruding from under the dressing tray..Handwritten 'Camberwell staff and patient'royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns patient care - wound dressing, rdns camberwell centre

The RDNS Sister is visiting a lady in her own home to take and record her blood pressure reading. The Sister will assess if these readings are within normal limits and relay these readings to the lady's Doctor as necessary. The RDNS uniform worn by the Sister is a white short sleeve blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style dress and a dark blue cardigan. The Trained nurses (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 the RDNS Trained nurses (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, Poliomyelitis, 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.A black and white photograph showing on the left, a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister who has short dark curly hair and who has the ends of a stethoscope in her ears and with her left hand holding the other end below the blood pressure cuff on an elderly lady's extended right arm.. She is looking down at the blood pressure dial which is held in her right hand. The Sister is wearing her RDNS uniform of a white blouse, the peaked collar of which can be seen, under a darker V neck tunic style frock and a dark cardigan. The lady who has short grey curly hair, is watching the procedure. She is wearing a grey short sleeved frock with a broach at its neck and with dark long sleeves seen underneath. The lady is sitting in a patterned padded chair which has a carved wooden top. Long opened curtains with voile curtain in the centre can be see behind her. In the left background, part of a cabinet with ornaments can be seen, and in the left foreground part of a patterned lounge chair can be seen.royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns patient care - blood pressure check

The photograph is taken in a Hospital Physiotherapy Department. Anne Radford is the Physiotherapist at the Hospital and is teaching RDNS Liaison, Sister Short, the transfer technique required when transferring a patient who will be discharged home. This knowledge will be given to the RDNS Sister who will be attending to the patient in her home when she is discharged.Liaison had occurred between Doctors and the Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), nursing staff, but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. They facilitated the smooth transition from hospital to home for many clients that required ongoing nursing care. Liaison Sisters regularly attended discharge planning meetings, interviewed prospective clients, co-ordinated discharge and booked the first visit by the visiting RDNS staff. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the hospital doctor, via the Liaison Sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District Sister. Liaising also occurred between District Sisters in the field and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital. RDNS also held Physiotherapy workshops for staff teaching safe transferring techniques. The Physiotherapist would visit the home of a patient with the attending Sister when required.On the left of the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Liaison, Sister Margaret Short, and to her right is hospital Physiotherapist, Anne Radford, who is smiling at the patient. She has short dark hair and is wearing a white hospital coat. She is kneeling on a physiotherapy table behind, and assisting, a young patient to transfer. Sister Short, who has short dark hair and is wearing her RDNS, grey short sleeve uniform with the RDNS insignia seen at the top of the sleeve, and her grey peaked hat, is slightly bent over the physiotherapy table with her arms under the legs of the young patient.. The Physiotherapist has her hands under the patient's armpits. The patient, who has dark short hair and is wearing a long sleeve white top and check slacks, has her forearms through a transfer ring which is hanging from a thick rope. Her buttocks are just touching the dark covered physiotherapy table and the Sister is supporting her legs which are slightly raised off the table.. A row of crutches can be seen in the left rear of the photograph and a bar with some equipment hanging on it can be seen on the right rear behind the physiotherapy table..Photographer stamp. Handwritten information.royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns liaison, rdns uniform, sister margaret short, ms anne radford

Sister Short is writing down information being given by patient Sue Rowley who will be discharged from the Hospital. It will be phoned through to the appropriate RDNS Centre where it is recorded by the Clerical staff and passed to the RDNS Sister who will visit Sue on her discharge. Liaison had occurred between Doctors and the Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), nursing staff, but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. They facilitated the smooth transition from hospital to home for many patients who required ongoing nursing care. Liaison Sisters regularly attended discharge planning meetings, interviewed prospective clients, co-ordinated discharge and booked the first visit by the visiting RDNS staff. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the hospital doctor, via the Liaison Sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District Sister. Liaising also occurred between District Sisters in the field and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital. A Physiotherapist worked under contract to teach transfer techniques to RDNS Sisters before RDNS employed there own Physiotherapist 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. The Physiotherapist made home visits with the attending RDNS Sister when required.Standing to the left of the black and white photograph is hospital Physiotherapist, Anne Radford, who has short dark hair and is wearing a white coat. She is side on and has her hands placed on the upper and lower right arm of Sue Rowley, who is sitting in a wheelchair. Sue has short dark hair and is wearing a neck brace and her left hand is holding a pulley rope. She is wearing a white top under a dark jacket and light coloured slacks. To her right is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Liaison Sister, Margaret Short who is facing Sue. She has her left hand extended supporting an open book and has a pen in her right hand which is poised on a page in the book. Sister Short is wearing her RDNS grey short sleeve uniform dress and grey peaked hat over her short dark hair. The RDNS insignia is seen on the top of her left sleeve. Behind the wheelchair are some wooden bars, two upright and two vertical, which are attached to a brick wall, the pulley rope is through a wheel attached to the right hand upright. The brick wall joins another which has part of a window visible. Behind the Sister and wheelchair are four shelves attached to this brick wall. Several round weights are on the shelves.Photographer stamp. Hand written informationroyal district nursing service, rdns, rdns liaison, rdns uniform, ms sue rowley, physiotherapist anne radford, sister margaret short

This photograph is taken in one of Melbourne's Public Hospitals. The Liaison Sister is learning the transfer technique required to transfer Julianne. She will then relay this information to the appropriate RDNS Centre where it will be passed to the Sister who will be visiting Julianne and attending to her care when she is discharged from hospital.Liaison had occurred between Doctors and the Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), nursing staff, but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. They facilitated the smooth transition from hospital to home for many clients that required ongoing nursing care. Liaison Sisters regularly attended discharge planning meetings, interviewed prospective clients, co-ordinated discharge and booked the first visit by the visiting RDNS staff. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the hospital doctor, via the Liaison Sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District Sister. Liaising also occurred between District Sisters in the field and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital. 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 insure 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, the 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 contracted, and then in then employed a Physiotherapist 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 Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Liaison Sister, who has short dark hair and is wearing her RDNS grey uniform dress, in a bent position over a bed with her arms extended and under the legs of, and assisting, hospital patient, Julianne Goney as she is transferring from her bed into a wheelchair. Julianne, who has her long hair drawn up and is wearing light coloured slacks and top with a chain and locket hanging down it, has her right arm extended and her hand gripping a triangular monkey bar; her left hand is extended reaching the far arm of the wheelchair. Dr. R. Bartlett, who has short dark hair and is wearing a white coat, is behind and to the right of Julianne.with his left arm bent and his hand under her armpit assisting her to transfer. Julianne's buttocks and the heels of her shoes are just touching the light coloured coverings on the white metal frame bed. Part of a wall and two windows are to the left of the RDNS Sister. Part of a white locker with a bowl and apple on it, is seen behind the doctor and part of a privacy curtain is seen to the right of the photograph.Photographer Stamp Handwritten informationroyal district nursing service, rdns, rdns liaison, rdns uniform, ms julianne goney, doctor r. bartlett

Sister Prentice is visiting Mrs. Morgan in her home and is applying a lotion around the outside of Mrs. Morgan's leg ulcer. Following this application Sr. Prentice dressed the wound with the dressing material as ordered by Mrs. Morgan's Doctor. Under her gown, Sister Prentice is wearing the RDNS winter uniform introduced in 1971, which was a grey/blue skivy under a blue/grey herringbone woollen V neck tunic.From its inception in 1885 as Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), their Trained nurses (Nurses) provided wound care to their patients, who ranged in age from the very young to the elderly. The methods and medication applied to wounds changed as research developed better products. MDNS received Royal patronage in 1966 and as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), the Education department developed programs, such as the Leg Ulcer Management Program, to provide their trained nurses (Sisters) with methods of best quality care. 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. RDNS introduced Wound Care Specialists who did assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field. On the right of the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Cheryl Prentice, who has dark shoulder length hair and is wearing a white gown over her RDNS uniform, the sleeves of which are seen. On her left Mrs. Morgan is sitting propped against a pillow at the top of her bed and has her knees slightly bent with legs extended. Sr. Prentice, who is looking at her right hand, is holding a small open bottle in her left hand and has her right arm extended across Mrs. Morgan's legs, with the fingers of her hand touching the skin on the far side of an open ulcer wound on the right leg of Mrs. Morgan. Mrs. Morgan, who has short light coloured hair, is wearing a cardigan over her floral frock, is looking at the procedure. The bedhead has fine turned wooden slats and the bed coverings are a checked rug and chenile bedspread with a floral towel under Mrs. Morgan's legs.. Photographer stamp. Quote No. DN 77 Handwritten informationroyal district nursing service, rdns, rdns wound care, mrs morgan, sister cheryl prentice

The RDNS Sister is visiting the mother and babe in their home. She is using sterile equipment and swabs to firstly moisten the tulle gras to enable ease of its removal before redressing the open areas on the babes skin with sterile dressings. With RDNS visiting the home of the mother, the young babes routine can continue to be established at home, rather than them having to regularly visit a Doctor or Hospital department for redressing of the babes lesions. 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, skin conditions, 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 (Sisters) 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. On the left in the black and white photograph is a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister, who has short, straight blonde hair, and is wearing a white gown over her uniform is bending over a bassinet as she attends a baby with a skin condition. The Sister has her arms extended with a pair of forceps in her left hand, and in her right hand, another pair of forceps with a cotton wool swab attached is touching tulle gras on one of the wounds on the babes outstretched right arm. The baby is on her covered change table and is wearing a singlet and an opened patterned jumpsuit with her right upper area uncovered. Her mother, who has short dark hair and is wearing a dark sleeveless V neck tunic style frock over a light coloured long sleeve top, is behind and bending over the change table holding her babes right outstretched hand. She is also holding a dummy in that hand. The mother's left extended arm and hand is on the left shoulder of her babe. The baby, who has sparse hair, is looking up at her mother; signs of a skin condition can be seen on areas of the babes face and head.Photographer stamp. Quote No. DO 50royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns wound care

RDNS Sister Marilyn Smith is visiting the little girl in her own home to apply sterilized dressings, as ordered by a Doctor, to the wounds on her body. Visiting the child at home provides her with a familiar environment to undergo the procedure. 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 (Sisters) 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. On the left of this black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Marilyn Smith, who has short dark hair and is wearing a white gown over her RDNS uniform kneeling on the floor as she dresses the wound of a young girl. Sister Smith is kneeling on a white covering which is placed over the patterned carpet in the lounge room. Only the back of her head can be seen; her left arm is extended and bent over the head of a seated small girl; she has a forcep in her hand. The young girl, who has shoulder length dark hair, is seated on the white covering and has her right hand on Sister Smith's right arm. She is watching as Sister Smith is removing a dressing from a wound on her left side. The child's left arm and hand are held above the dressing. A wound can also be seen on the girls left thigh. In the left rear, part of a patterned couch can be seen and part of a white curtain to its right. Behind the little girl, part of a brick fireplace and gas fire can be seen.Photographer stamp. Quote No. DO 58 mdns, melbourne district nursing society, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns patient care - wound dressing, sister marilyn smith

The RDNS Sister is giving care to the elderly man in his own home. She is wearing her winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvy worn under a blue/grey herringbone woolen V neck tunic style dress.The Trained nurses (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 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, Poliomyelitis, 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.Black and white photograph showing a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister, who has short dark hair and is wearing the RDNS winter uniform, standing side on to the right of, and attending, an elderly gentleman who is seated on a couch in his lounge room. On the left, the gentleman has sparse light hair and is wearing dark pants and top over a tartan shirt. A white towel is laying on his right leg. To his right, the Sister has her right arm outstretched straightening clothing at his neck, and is supporting a glass in the mans left hand with her outstretched left arm and hand. The glass is partly hidden by her hand. The man is looking up at the Sister and has his right hand near the glass. The Sister is wearing a uniform skivvy under a V neck tunic style dress. In the background, part of floral curtains and white voile curtains can be seen.Photographer stamp. Quote No. DO 75royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns patient care, rdns uniform