This wedding dress belonged to Rayleen Haig OAM, nee Janetzki, who married Donald Haig in Geelong on 15 August 1964. The dress was designed for Rayleen and made by Deon's of Melbourne, which specialised in wedding gowns (she believes it was above Sportsgirl in Collins Street). It cost about one hundred pounds. The reception was held in the Carlton Hotel, Geelong. A longtime local resident, Rayleen was a Brighton councillor (1983-92) and mayor (1989-90). She was awarded the OAM in 2007 for "service to local government and to the community through health, historical and aged care organisations, particularly within the City of Bayside, and to the National Council of Women of Australia".Cream silk dress with boat neck, short sleeves and back zip. Guipure lace flowers on sleeves and skirt.wedding dress, rayleen haig, rayleen janetzki, donald haig, deon's of melbourne, brighton council, mayor

This dress belonged to Ellen Davis, nee McLaughlin (1870-1956), great-grandmother of Margaret Lake. Ellen was born in County Donegal, Ireland. She married George Washington Davis in 1890 and the couple moved to South Africa, where George owned a bicycle store. During this time, Margaret says, Ellen "had a life of luxury, having servants at her beck and call and even sleeping at the foot of her bed to protect her from any harm". She was a "tiny lady of 5 foot tall" and George "could put his hands around her waist of 18 inches". On coming to Australia they opened a garage and taxi service in Graham Street, Port Melbourne. They lived here until Ellen's death in a road accident in 1956. Ellen gave the dress to her great-granddaughter when Margaret was ten years old. Aged 62, Margaret told BHS, "I have worn it on several occasions, mostly to costume parties and fancy-dress balls when I was younger. I have loved it all this time and displayed it on a dress model in my last home". As she had no granddaughter of her own to leave it to, she decided to donate the dress so that it would continue to be cared for.Sleeveless black silk crepe dress with V-neck and scalloped hem. Covered with black beaded designs, with white bead and iridescent pink sequin accents.margaret lake, ellen davis, ellen mclaughlin, beading, 1920s

To honour the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Association for the Blind (then Association for the Advancement of the Blind), sister organisation Seimei Association for the Aged Blind sent this plaque.1 digital image of metal letter to AFB from Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged BlindMr John Moule President Association for the Blind In celebration of the Centenary of The Association for the Blind. A Seed of Love planted one century ago has grown to the commendable and universal Association for which I pay my hearty respect. I feel honored of our Sisterhood Agreement which marks the 10th Anniversary this year and wish this agreement of our mutual reliance will enrich advanced care and services for the blind and also to develop mutual friendships between two countries. 8th December 1995 Akio Honma President Director The Seimei Association for The Welfare of the Aged Blind, Tokyo (Japanese characters)seimei association for the welfare of aged blind inc., association for the blind

Copies of the Proclamation of understanding between the Association for the Blind and the Seimei Association for the Welfare of Aged Blind, Inc., in both English and Japanese. These agreements were a symbol of the exchanges of each organisation, and the growing trend of agencies to link more to compatriots overseas as telecommunications improved.2 digital images of memorandum of understanding between Association for the Blind, Melbourne, Australia & The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind IncProclamation Whereas the Association for the Blind, Melbourne, Australia & The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind Inc, Oume City, Japan, are organisations which: - promote the welfare of people who are blind or visually impaired especially the elderly; - provide welfare programs, accomodation, medical and nursing assistance, and support to people who are blind or visually impaired; - strive to overcome problems associated with blindness, whether physical, psychological, educational, social or economic; - provide appropriate rehabilitation services to enable people to use their capabilities and to develop their skills so that they can participate as fully as possible in the community; - promote the interests of people who are blind or visually impaired and provide information to the general community; and - provide at all times services to a high professional standard with a spirit of care and understanding. Therefore let is be known publicly that the Association for the Blind and The Seimei Association for the Welfare of Aged Blind, Inc. formally establish a sister organisation relationship for the attainment of these common aspirations for people who are blind or visually impaired, especially the elderly. In Witness Thereof the Association for the Blind & The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind, Inc. cause their representatives to set their hands hereto on the 8th June, 1985. (Diana Jones) For the Association for the Blind, Melbourne Australia (signature) For The Seimei Association for the Welfare of the Aged Blind, Inc., Oume City, Tokyo, Japanseimei association for the welfare of aged blind inc., association for the blind

The annual report outlines the achievements of the year, financial position and client stories. Other articles outline centenary appeal, the redevelopment of Brighton, the introduction of CDs in the library service and expansion of the Community Aged Care Program.3 printed pages with illustrationsassociation for the blind, corporation records

The photograph is taken in Mr. Spartel's home in St. Kilda. The MDNS uniform worn under her white gown was a dark grey cotton frock with a belt. The grey stiffened and brimmed felt hat had a light grey hatband with a red Maltese cross attached in the centre. Sister J. Faust is about to redress a wound on Mr. Spartel's abdomen. The photograph is a record of wound care being given by MDNS trained nurses in a patients home during the 1950s. This photograph appeared along with an article in The Sun newspaper Oct 17 1952.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 Wound Specialist program, and 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. When RDNS introduced Wound Care Specialists they carried out assessments and provided advice and support to the District Sisters working in the field. On the left of the black and white photograph is Mr. George Spartel, who has dark short curly hair and is lying on his bed. His shoulders and head are resting on the white pillow with his head against the wooden slatted backrest of his bed. His torso is bare and part of a white wound dressing can be seen on his upper abdominal area. A dark grey covering is over the lower portion of his body. He is smiling and looking up at Sister J. Faust from Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) who is standing to the right of his bed.Sister Faust, who has dark curled hair, has her arms raised behind her neck as she reaches the ties on the white gown she is wearing over her uniform. She is wearing her grey brimmed uniform hat. Behind her is a wooden table, with a dark coloured radio on its right, and a jug with a doily over it, on the right.mdns, melbourne district nursing society (1885-1957), nurses, mdns uniforms, rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns wound care, mr george spartel, sister j. faust

This digital image appeared in the MDNS 1937 Annual Report and depicts one of the aspects of nursing care carried out by the District Sisters of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in a home in the suburbs of Melbourne.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 wound care programs, such as the Leg Ulcer Management Program to provide their Trained nurses (Sisters) with methods of best quality care. They instructed RDNS 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 digital image is a little girl who is sitting on the top step of a wooden stool which is against a light coloured wall. The little girl has short dark straight hair; is wearing a dark jumper and skirt and is holding a light coloured bandage in her right hand. Her long grey socks are pushed down and she is wearing black sandals. Her right leg is bent and her foot is resting on the lower step. Her left leg is extended and she is looking down at a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Sister who is on her right, as she is swabbing a wound on the girls left knee. The Sister is wearing her uniform dark cardigan over her grey dress which has a white collar, and her grey brimmed hat, with central Maltese cross on the hatband, is worn over her short hair. She is looking down at the child's wound and in her right hand she has a pair of forceps holding a white swab against the wound on the girl's knee. Her left hand is under, and supporting, the girl's knee.mdns uniform, melbourne district nursing society, rdns, royal district nursing service, mdns wound care

This digital image is taken at the home of a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) patient, and depicts a MDNS Sister attending to a lady who is lying in a wicker bed pram in the rear garden of her home. The wicker bed pram enabled the lady to enjoy fresh air and to be moved about easily. The image shows the MDNS uniform of a grey cotton frock with white collar, and a grey brimmed hat with a red Maltese cross in the centre of the hatband. In 1885, 50 years after Melbourne was founded, it was recognized that nursing care was needed for the sick poor in inner Melbourne. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) was founded in February 1885 with one Trained nurse, known as 'Nurse' in those days, and a second employed six months later,. The two Nurses worked in the now CBD, ie from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. At that time they walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of inner Melbourne carrying their nursing bags containing lotion, ointments, powders, liniment, bandages, dressings, a case of spirits, and the Nurse's own clean apron, soap and small towel. They supplied equipment on loan, such as earthenware hot water bottles, splints, urinals, bed pans, bed cradles, feeding mugs, and air-cushions as well as providing blankets and clean bed linen, and nightdresses as necessary. From its inception the Society was at the forefront of health care and liaised with Doctors. They provided high quality nursing care to a range of people, often in destitute situations, some lying on rags on the floor as they had no bed, others with just a bed and maybe a thin blanket, a chair and nothing else. Their ages ranged from babes, children, adults to the elderly. The Nurses gave medications as ordered, dressed wounds e.g. to the injured, and surgical cases, and to those with leg ulcers; attended to patients with ‘surgical ailments’ such as ‘hip disease’; gave care to those with acute illnesses such as bronchitis, pleurisy, pneumonia, measles, and scarlet fever, as well as those with chronic illnesses such as consumption (tuberculosis), heart disease, arthritis, cancer, debility, neuritis and paralysis. This image shows a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurse (Sister) wearing a grey uniform with white collar, and a grey brimmed hat, which has a hatband with Maltese cross applied, standing behind and attending an elderly lady patient laying in a wicker bed pram outside her home. The Sister has her right hand resting on the pram and is looking down at the lady, and the lady, who has short grey hair, is smiling and looking toward the camera. Her body is covered with a floral cover. To the left, part of the horizontal weatherboards of a wooden house can be seen, and to the right and rear, a brick, tiled hip roof, building can be seen. The wicker bed pram has four spoked wheels and a metal frame that bends up to form a handle on its right hand side.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mdns nurses, mdns patient care, mdns uniforms, rdns, royal district nursing service

This photograph is a record of Matron Beatrice Williams with some of the Trained nurses (Sisters) who worked in the District division of Melbourne District Nursing Society After Care Home in 1933, just prior to Matron Williams resigning to be married. It was taken in front of the Nurses Home at 39 Victoria Parade, Collingwood and shows part of the District nursing uniform worn by the MDNS Sisters in the 1930s. At that time their uniform dresses, worn under their coats, were grey cotton and their brimmed hats were made of felt and had a red Maltese cross applied to the centre front of the hatband.Miss Beatrice Williams worked as a Trained Nurse (Sister) with the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) before going to England to gain her Midwifery certificate. After qualifying, she worked as a Tutor sister and a District Superintendent at the University College Hospital in London. On returning to Australia she was appointed, in April 1929, Matron of the District division of the MDNS After-Care Home (Hospital from 1934). She convinced the Committee of the need for Ante Natal care and in 1930 the Ante Natal Clinic was opened at the After-Care. She continued as Matron until 1933 when she married Dr. J.P Major, and was invited to join the Committee of Management. In the early 1950s when the Government requested the Society separate and it take over the After Care Hospital, she became President of the now named Melbourne District Nursing Service with its Headquarters and Nursing Home moving to 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. Beatrice had an understanding of the poor, the sick and the aged, and was known for her kindness and sympathy. Her foresight, leadership and enthusiasm brought forth the expansion of District nursing. She died on the 15th of August 1958. 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.Black and white photograph showing Matron, Miss Beatrice Williams, wearing a white uniform and veil over her short dark hair, and a group of thirteen Melbourne District Nursing Society Trained nurses (Sisters) outside the front of their Nurses Home. The Sisters are wearing grey coats over their grey uniforms and grey brimmed hats with a Maltese cross applied to the white headband. Matron is sitting in the centre of six Sisters and there are seven Sisters standing behind them on the veranda; a round column is seen to the right between the 4th and 5th Sisters. Part of the grey building behind shows an open door to the left and a long window to the right. A scrolled metal safety rail, running from the round column, is seen in front of the three nurses on the right. The seated Sisters and Matron have their legs crossed at the ankles, melbourne district nursing society, mdns nurses, mdns, rdns, royal district nursing service, mdns uniforms, matron beatrice mary williams

This photograph shows a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Sister visiting a patient in his home. The photograph shows her taking his temperature and pulse and carrying out basic nursing observations. The Sister kept a record of this information in the man's Nursing History at MDNS Headquarters and conveyed it to the patient's Doctor as required.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.This black and white photograph shows a Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurse (Sister) standing on the left of a man who is in his bed on the veranda of his home. She is wearing a white gown over her uniform and her grey uniform hat, which has a hatband showing a Maltese cross in the centre; she has her left hand on the man's right wrist and is looking down at a watch she is holding in her right hand. The man, who has short dark hair, is holding a thermometer in his mouth. He is partly propped up with his head resting on a white covered pillow; part of the iron frame of the bed is seen to its left. Most of his body is covered with light coloured bedclothes; part of his pyjamas can be seen. Part of a vase of flowers is seen just behind the Sister's left arm. In the left of the photograph, part of the weatherboards of the house can be seen with a window, partly obscured with a blind. To the right of the man is a veranda post and some pickets of a wooden fence; behind him part of a brick wall is seen.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, mdns uniforms, rdns, royal district nursing service

This photograph is a visual record of Mrs Tatham who was President of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) from 1915 until 1923. Mrs. Tatham, with her happy disposition, tact and organizational skills, served the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) as a very active member for 25 years. At 38 years of age she was elected to the Committee of the MDNS in 1909, and in 1912 was elected as Honorary Secretary until being elected as President in 1915; a role she held until 1923. During this time she undertook roles on fund raising committees, as well as, in 1919, leading the committee in appealing to the public for funds to purchase motor cars for the use of the Society's Nurses so more cases could be visited during the Influenza Epidemic. In 1923 she resigned as President but agreed to take up the role as Vice-president and was the 'Head Almoner' in the Society's newly formed 'Committee of Almoners' who assisted discharged clients from the After-Care to receive assistance from other organizations if required; the name changed to 'Ward Visitors' when the newly formed 'Institute of Almoners' was formed with now trained Almoners. She remained as Vice-President until 1926 when she was appointed as Secretary of the Society and After-Care Home. She remained in this role until her death, aged 63 years, following a tragic car accident in October 1934. Mrs. Tatham was known as "a gentlewoman in the truest sense" and was held in high esteem by her friends and colleagues. Following her death a Ward in the After-Care Hospital was named the 'Constance Maud Tatham' Ward in her memory.Black and white head and shoulder photograph of Mrs. F. (Constance Maud) Tatham. She has a round visage and a small amount of dark curled hair is seen under a dark turned-up brimmed hat with large tails of a flat bow. She is wearing floral frock with buttons down the front; a dark and light coloured scarf is around her neck. melbourne district nursing society, after- care hospital, mdns president, rdns, royal district nursing service, mrs f. (constance maud) tatham

This photograph is taken in the home of the lady and shows MDNS Sister J. Faust giving an injection, using a glass syringe, into the right upper arm of the lady. This type of syringe was re sterilized. These syringes remained in use until the mid 1960s when disposable plastic syringes took their place. This photograph was used in a video on the history of RDNS which is held by the organization. It is a record of the type of care given by Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurses in a patient's home.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.Black and white photograph of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), Sister J. Faust who is wearing her grey brimmed uniform hat over her dark curled hair and is wearing a white gown over her grey uniform which is seen below her gown. In her right hand, she is holding a syringe, with needle against the lady's skin, and her left hand is on the upper right arm of the lady above the needle site. The lady, who has light coloured curled hair and is wearing a dark coloured long frock, is standing to the right of the Sister and is holding the right sleeve of her dress up with her left hand. A metal sink with cupboards below is behind the lady. To the left is fireplace which is now tiled at the rear and has a gas stove with kettle on a jet in the space. A row of three pale coloured kitchen canisters in decreasing size sit on the mantle piece. On a shelf above these sit a dark coloured box and a tall thin vase. Staff members name is written on the back of the photograph.melbourne district nursing society, nursing care, royal district nursing service, rdns, mdns, nursing care - medications, mdns uniforms, j. faust

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

Dame Ivy Evelyn Annie Wedgwood, as Senator in the Federal Government, presented the Senate with Statistics of visits done by Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) Trained nurses (Sisters) showing their visits increased threefold in the four years from 1952-1956. She was Honorary Treasurer of the now named Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) for many years. Dame Ivy Evelyn Annie Wedgwood trained as an Accountant and worked as a Secretary before joining the Australian Women's National League which led her to be a founding member of the Liberal Party, and the Victorian Liberal Party's women's section. She became the first Victorian woman Senator in the Federal Government in December 1949 and served until mid 1971. She presented the Senate with Statistics of visits done by Melbourne District Nursing Society Sisters showing their visits increased threefold in the four years from 1952-1956, and stating that many patients would have been hospitalized without the visits from the Society. She strongly supported the Home Nursing Subsidy Bill in Parliament which was passed in 1956, and continued to work for health, welfare and disability issues as well as being an advocate for women's interests, including equal pay for equal work, during her time in Parliament. Over the years she was a specialist magistrate to the Children's Court of Victoria, a Justice of the Peace, served on the National Council of Women, and was president of the Women's Justice Association, as well as Honorary Treasurer of the now named Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) for many years and the first President of the Australian Council of Domiciliary Nursing. In June 1967 she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for 'distinguished services to Parliament and the community' and RDNS holds this award in its Archives. Following her retirement from Parliament she became President of the After-Care Hospital in 1972, and on the 24th of July 1975 after chairing a Board meeting she felt unwell and returned to her home in Toorak where she died, aged 78 years, later that evening.Black and white photograph showing Dame Ivy Wedgwood, who has short wavy dark hair; is wearing glasses and has a single string of pearls around her neck. She and is sitting in a light coloured covered chair and part of a cushion is seen. She is wearing a floral dress with mid length sleeves and is sitting in front of a filled bookcase. A smaller filled bookcase is seen to her left as well as some stacked books.melbourne district nursing society, mdns, after- care hospital, royal district nursing service, rdns, dame evelyn annie wedgwood

This photograph is a visual record of Mrs. Major, then Miss Beatrice Williams was appointed Matron of the District Nursing Division of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) After Care Home in April 1929 until 1933 when she resigned to marry Mr. J.P. Major. Following her marriage she was invited to become a member of the Society's Committee. In 1957 she was the first President of the Melbourne District Nursing Service.Mrs. Major, then Miss Beatrice Williams worked as a Sister with the Melbourne District Nursing Society in the early 1920s, before sailing tor England where she studied Midwifery and Community nursing. On her return her leadership qualities were recognized and she was appointed Matron of the District Nursing Division of the Melbourne District Nursing Society After-Care Home in April 1929, being considered 'capable, sympathetic, a good organizer and administrator and with understanding of the problems of the under-privileged, the aged and the sick'.. She was instrumental in convincing the Committee of Management of the need for an Ante-Natal Clinic which then opened at the After-Care Home in September 1930. Matron Williams tendered her resignation in 1933 as she was to marry Mr. J.P. Major. Following her marriage she was invited to become a member of the Society's Committee, and at the time of the dissolution of the Society and After-Care in 1957, was the first President of the now Melbourne District Nursing Service, a role she held until her death on 15th of February 1958.Black and white photograph of the head and shoulder view of Mrs. J.P. Major, nee Beatrice Mary Williams, who has short dark hair curled at the ends. She is wearing a light coloured floral frock with a square neckline.. She is sitting in front of a closed curtain.melbourne district nursing society, melbourne district nursing service, mdns, after-care home, rdns, royal district nursing service, matron, beatrice mary williams, mrs j.p. major

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

This photograph was taken just a few years after the District division of the 'Melbourne District Nursing Society and After Care Hospital' separated in 1957. The District Division then became known as 'Melbourne District Nursing Service'. They moved into their Headquarters at 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne which was used as the Nurses Home as well as for Administrative purposes. The Sisters left from there each day to do their rounds and returned to do their book work before retiring at the end of the day. This photograph depicts the winter uniform worn at this time; a grey felt beret which had a red Maltese cross attached in the centre; a grey cotton frock and red cardigan, and a grey woolen coat, some with a grey belt, worn over their uniform.In 1885, 50 years after Melbourne was founded, it was recognized that nursing care was needed for the sick poor in inner Melbourne. The Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), the first Society of its kind in Australia, was founded in February 1885 with one Trained nurse (Nurse), and a second employed six months later, working in the now CBD ie. from Spencer Street to Spring Street and from Victoria Parade to Flinders Street. From its inception the Society was at the forefront of health care. They provided high quality trained nursing care; educated their patients in the curing and prevention of disease; teaching the importance of cleanliness and good nutrition, both by verbal instruction and demonstration, even supplying soup and milk when needed. At that time they walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of inner Melbourne carrying their nursing bag containing lotion and dressings, and supplying equipment on loan, such as feeding mugs, bedpans, air-cushions, splints, bed cradles feeding mugs and providing clean bed linen and nightdresses as necessary. Trained midwives began home births in August 1893 taking midwifery bundles and providing clothes for the babe and mother as needed. The Society were pioneers in recognizing the need for premises where patients too ill to be in their own home, but not ill enough to go to hospital, was needed, and the Society built, then opened, the After-Care Home, (later called After-Care Hospital), in 1926, for their patients, and patients from Hospitals. Many children were nursed there, some long term during the Polio epidemic; the Society employed two School Teachers. The Society now ran two divisions, the After-Care with its own Trained nurses (Sisters) and nurses and the District division. The Society were the first in Melbourne, in early 1928, to recognize some patients leaving the After-Care, and many at home, needed further social care and they set up ‘Almoners’ from their Committee to visit these patients and be intermediaries in getting them social assistance. It was late the following year before the first training of Almoners took place in Melbourne. In 1930 the Society employed a full time kindergarten teacher to visit poor children in their homes. That year the Society were pioneers in opening an Ante-Natal Clinic at the After-Care, setting a high standard with equipment, keeping records and providing leaflets with instructions in how to keep healthy during pregnancy, what complications to look for and what to do when labour commenced. In 1934 the Society were pioneers again when they opened the first Women’s Welfare Clinic in Melbourne giving advice on birth-control, at first attended by their own patients, but then accepting patients from public hospitals until their own clinics were opened. A Social Service Officer was employed at the After-Care who successfully gained better housing from the Housing Commission for families living under unsuitable conditions. In 1957 the Hospital and Charities Commission decided to take over the After-Care Hospital, so the 'Melbourne District Nursing Society and After-Care Hospital' separated and the 'Melbourne District Nursing Service' was formed, setting up Headquarters at 452 St. Kilda Road. Royal patronage was granted in 1966, now becoming the Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). Liaison with public hospitals began with a District nurse attached to a hospital visiting patients before going home. Education continued to be at the forefront of District with research by RDNS Educators and programs being implemented. 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 Amputees, 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 seven (some partly hidden) Melbourne District Nursing Service (MDNS) Sisters wearing full winter uniform of grey berets and grey long coats, with lapels, over their uniform which is partly seen on one Sister. Some are on a path, and others walking to the open metal gate; one Sister is between two tall, square, dark grey concrete columns. Looking at the photograph, two Sisters have turned left onto the footpath. These two Sisters are carrying oblong leather type bags in their left hand and the Sister between the columns is carrying a white soft material type bag. The Sisters seen have short dark hair under their berets. White plaques with the black numbers '452' are attached to the top 1/3 of each column and an arched grey concrete fence with brick top runs to the left. Behind this are two medium size leafless trees. A metal spiked fence runs from the column to the right of the photograph. Attached to this, near the column, is a white plaque with 'Melbourne District Nursing Service Headquarters' written in black. In the rear is a light grey two story Italian style building with a polygon shaped bay window to the left on the ground floor. It has a long window in the front and another on the side. To the right of this is a veranda with two concrete arches, separated by a roman column. A door can be seen behind the first arch. Above the bay window on the second story are three long arched windows, and to the right of that an arched opening with a roman column separating the partially seen next window. A concrete balustrade is seen at the front of the second story.melbourne district nursing service, headquarters, mdns, nurses, nurses uniforms, royal district nursing service, rdns

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 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