Historical document reflecting public health practices and advice for prenatal care, infant welfare and the care of preschool children in Vctoria in the mid 20th centuaryOf significance to the AHNL as many nurses completed infant welfare training after general and miwdifery certificationIllustrated stapled booklet with pale blue cover and black print. Front cover has a decorative margin at left. Title and publishers details are also printed here at top right 'THIS BOOK IS VALUABLE KEEP IT' is printedAt top right of front cover the name W Wortley is handwritten [black ink] Also on front cover is a printed black and white donation sticker: black Maltese cross in circle, "This book was donated to Alfred Archival Association Nursing Division by' Win Wortley [handwritten in black ink] along with the previous catalogue number. There is also a printed sticker with the previous catalogue number, and another with 'The Department of Health'. On the back cover ther is a name and adress [pencil]prenatal care, infant welfare, care of the preschool child, public health -victoria-history

A small blue hardcover book with the title printed in gold lettering at the top of the front cover -The Care of Infants. Coronation Edition is printed below. The title page has the title as well as - A Work for Mothers and Nurses in Australasia upon The Feeding and Management of Infants. The publisher details and 1911 are listed at the bottom. The Contents page lists 16 chapters including recipes for children and invalids at the back. There is an Index. Some charts are included. Pp. 112.non-fictionThis book gives in-depth information for the care of infants and children from birth. Full details are accompanied by advice for all manner of a child's growth, health and development. Tables such as Suggested Times for Feeding Babies as well as Symptoms of Infectious Diseases of Childhood are included. Who complied this book is not noted, but there is a reference to Mellin's Food Company underneath the publisher on the title page. The recipes refer to Mellin's products too. Melli's Food was an infant food made of wheat flour and malt. It was with both water and milk and became popular on both sides of the Atlantic.infants, babies, infant care

This feeder was used by the parents of Gerard Anderson to feed him Lactogen in 1922. Correspondence on file from donor.Clear glass feeding bottle. Bottle is curved, somewhat resembling the shape of a banana, with a bottle neck at either end. A flat depression on the underside allows the object to lie on a flat surface. The back of the bottle is marked in ounces, and the front is marked in tablespoons. Embossed on the front is a picture of a beehive on a stand with the words: 'EVER SWEET/SANITARY FEEDER'.'EVER SWEET/SANITARY FEEDER'infant care, infant feeding

Pap boats date from approximately 1710 and were in extensive use until the end of the nineteenth century. They were used to feed pap to infants or invalids. Pap was a mixture of breadcrumbs, flour, rice or barley mixed with fluids such as broth, milk (if the infant was lucky), water, wine and even beer, to aid the digestion of pap it was often pre-chewed by the nurse or nanny. Pap was a popular form of infant nutrition for almost 300 years and used in many well to do homes. For unwanted or illegitimate infants in foundling homes it was often the only form of sustenance, however, and as a result the mortality rate was appallingly high. Despite a growing number of experts advising against the use of pap, it nevertheless persisted as a major source of infant nutrition in many nurseries until the late 1800’s, largely due to the ignorance of nannies and nurses who took great delight in disregarding the advice of physicians, who they believed were usurping their position in the household. ‘Nanny knows best’.(Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales, 'Pap Boat')Mary Howlett (1840-1922) began practising as a country midwife in 1866 in the western district of Victoria. She qualified as a 'ladies monthly nurse' in 1887 and continued to practise as a nurse and midwife until 1920. She began her six months training at the Melbourne Lying-In Hospital. She was known by many as 'Auntie', and her career spanned more than 50 years. Mrs Howlett's midwifery box and contents were given to Dr Frank Forster, and he donated them to the museum collection in 1993. Small round white china container with an extended slim lip. Fluid capacity approximately 30-90ml. The boat has been made from two moulded sections. infant care, infant feeding, midwifery

Maternity and care of the baby / prepared by the Victorian Branch of the British Medical Association and issued by the Commissioner of Maternity Allowances. Printed by L. F. Johnston, Commonwealth Government Printer, Canberra. Early settler families in Moorabbin Shire were living under very meagre conditions with very little access to medical care. Women depended on the care of a couple of District midwives and other local women who assisted with the birth and care of mother and baby. Gradually more maternal health services became available and Health Centres were established in Bentleigh, Moorabbin, Cheltenham. Post World War 11 advances in Maternal and Child Health care greatly assisted the mothers and reduced the infant mortality rate in City of Moorabbin 28 page booklet with information on how to care for a baby c1940NOTES for MOTHERS / MATERNITY / and CARE OF THE BABY / L.F Johnson Commonwealth Government Printer, Canberra / 5991 Handwritten L.Risstrom infant care, motherhood, childbirth, l. risstrom, early settlers, moorabbin shire, bentleigh, cheltenham, dr fleming joyce, dr george scantlebury, nurse watts

Maws were a well known British medical instrument and supply manufacturer. Originating as J and S Maw in 1828, the company changed names a number of times and was renamed Maws Pharmacy Supplies Limited in 1940. It continued trading as such until the company was sold to an American company (ITT) in 1973. Clear glass feeding bottle with four rounded edges, tapering to s short neck. Calibrations for ounces and mls imprinted on opposite sides of the bottle. Bottle in inscribed "MAWS" and "HEAT RESISTING". On base, "MADE IN BELGIUM".infant feeding, infant care

This design was modelled on Queen Victoria's nursery bottles and would have been in use during mid 1880s to the early 1900s. This item is very similar to the Alexandra Feeding Bottle featured in the Maws catalogue of 1868. It was named after the then Princess Alexandra of Wales, later Queen Alexandra. This model had a glass stopper and a long rubber tube which connected at one end to a teat and to a glass tube at the other. The fittings were very difficult to clean and would hold milk particles, making them a breeding ground for the formation of bacteria. Sterilisation of feeding bottles by boiling, and boiling of milk and water, were not practiced effectively at this time.Globular shaped feeding bottle embossed with a crown on the upper surface. Next of bottle fitted with a glass thread. Writing imprinted on front of bottle, inside a ring, reads "THE VICTORIA FEEDING BOTTLE". The bottle has a flat shaped bottom to allow it to balance on a surface while being used."THE VICTORIA FEEDING BOTTLE"infant feeding, infant care

Crown Crystal Glass were an Australian glass manufacturer, who were the Australian vendors for Pyrex from 1926, importing from the UK. In 1961, Crown Crystal Glass began manufacturing their own Pyrex, under the name Agee Pyrex (until 1963), Crown Agee Pyrex (late 1960s), Crown Pyrex (1970s), Crown Ovenware (1970s) and Pyrex Ovenware (late 1970s until early 1980s). Source: That Retro Piece, 'PYREX | Australian', https://thatretropiece.com/collections/pyrex-australian "The use of pyrex bottles became more prevalent in Australia in the second half of the 20th century and baby’s bottles made of pyrex were popular as they were easily sterilised in the home environment." Source: Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc., 'Bottle, The Perfect Agee Feeding Bottle, Mid 20th century', https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/592fe71ad0cdd520341b3954Octagonal glass bottle tapering to a narrow neck. Calibrations for ounces and mls imprinted on the sides of the bottle. Text inscribed on bottle reads " THE IDEAL AGEE/PYREX/FEEDER"."THE IDEAL AGEE/PYREX/FEEDER"infant feeding, infant care

Small feeding bottles were used to feed milk to newborns or juice to older infants. Crown Crystal Glass were an Australian glass manufacturer, who were the Australian vendors for Pyrex from 1926, importing from the UK. In 1961, Crown Crystal Glass began manufacturing their own Pyrex, under the name Agee Pyrex (until 1963), Crown Agee Pyrex (late 1960s), Crown Pyrex (1970s), Crown Ovenware (1970s) and Pyrex Ovenware (late 1970s until early 1980s). Source: That Retro Piece, 'PYREX | Australian', https://thatretropiece.com/collections/pyrex-australian "The use of pyrex bottles became more prevalent in Australia in the second half of the 20th century and baby’s bottles made of pyrex were popular as they were easily sterilised in the home environment." Source: Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc., 'Bottle, The Perfect Agee Feeding Bottle, Mid 20th century', https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/592fe71ad0cdd520341b3954Small clear glass bottle with a short narrow neck. Imprinted with calibrations for ounces (0-4) and millilitres (0-120). Embossed on side of bottle: "Agee/ PYREX/ Feeder".infant feeding, infant care

Crown Crystal Glass were an Australian glass manufacturer, who were the Australian vendors for Pyrex from 1926, importing from the UK. In 1961, Crown Crystal Glass began manufacturing their own Pyrex, under the name Agee Pyrex (until 1963), Crown Agee Pyrex (late 1960s), Crown Pyrex (1970s), Crown Ovenware (1970s) and Pyrex Ovenware (late 1970s until early 1980s). Source: That Retro Piece, 'PYREX | Australian', https://thatretropiece.com/collections/pyrex-australian "The use of pyrex bottles became more prevalent in Australia in the second half of the 20th century and baby’s bottles made of pyrex were popular as they were easily sterilised in the home environment." Source: Warrnambool and District Historical Society Inc., 'Bottle, The Perfect Agee Feeding Bottle, Mid 20th century', https://victoriancollections.net.au/items/592fe71ad0cdd520341b3954 Clear glass bottle tapering to a short narrow neck. Calibrations embossed on the glass in ounces (0-8) and mls (0-240). Embossed on the side: "Agee/PYREX/Feeder"."Agee/PYREX/Feeder"infant feeding, infant care

These bottles were used in hospital maternity wards to relieve baby's thirst, particularly in the immediate postpartum before the mother's milk came in.Small clear glass bottle tapering to a wide neck with a thread for a screw top. Metal screw top lid. Calibrations embossed on glass in millilitres (0-120). Embossed on front of bottle: 'Nestle'. Printing on paper label adhered to bottle reads 'Sterile Feeding/Water/Name/Ward'.infant feeding, infant care

Purchased from an Antique shop in Willunga, South Australia by Dr Malcolm Barnett, who then donated it to the collection.Glass feeding bottle. Bottle is loosely banana shaped, with a wider section in the middle narrowing to a neck at either end. The bottle has a flat base and is embossed with the word "Liptight" at top."LIPTIGHT"infant feeding, infant care

Purchased from an antique shop in Willunga, South Australia by Dr Malcolm Barnett, who then donated it to the collection.Glass feeding bottle. Bulbous glass bottle with openings at either end. The upper surface is rounded, and the bottom surface is angled to allow the bottle to sit on a flat surface. The upper end has a wider neck suitable for a rubber teat, whilst the lower end is narrower and may have had a valve attachment. Graduated measurement markings for tablespoons and ounces run along each side of the bottle. Embossed writing on underside of bottle reads "REG NO/47457", and on upper side reads "THE/SITAR/FEEDER/8 OZ/OR/225 ML".'THE/SITAR/FEEDER"infant feeding, infant care

Scales like these were used to weigh babies.Dr Mitchell Henry O'Sullivan worked in the Victorian country town of Casterton as a general practitioner from 1919 until his death in 1977. He also practiced obstetrics. His son, Dr David More O'Sullivan donated the obstetric bag and its contents to the College in 1999. The gladstone bag and contents are a unique time capsule of the type of instruments and pharmaceuticals used in the inter-war period. Set of small, portable spring balance scales. With case/enclosure.infant care

Prue Forster believes this to be the bottle given to her by 'Auntie' Maud Pepper, for Frank Forster's collection. Prue met her when she was working for the Aboriginal Health Service (1980-1993). 'Auntie' Maud Pepper was living in Preston at the time but had come from the Western District. The bottle was her own and she told Prue how fine material was used over the mouthpiece instead of a rubber teat. 'Auntie' Maud Pepper was a founder of ACES (the Aboriginal Elders Residence & Convalescent Home.) Additional sensitive notes on file.Glass boat-shaped feeding bottle with one end flattened and a spout at the other. There is a larger opening with a lip on the top surface. There is a small chip on the flattened end.infant feeding, infant care

This is a one pint general purpose enamel jug. Dr Mitchell Henry O'Sullivan worked in the Victorian country town of Casterton as a general practitioner from 1919 until his death in 1977. He also practiced obstetrics. His son, Dr David More O'Sullivan donated his obstetric bag and its contents to the College in 1999. The bag and contents are a unique time capsule of the type of instruments and pharmaceuticals used in the inter-war period.Cream coloured jug, made of enamelled metal with a blue rim. Inside the jug are markings for imperial and metric capacity.infant care

This type of wire cot was in common use in Maternity hospitals from the 1920s to the 1950s. Cot and bedding originally from the Maternity Unit, St George's Hospital, Kew. The hospital in Kew was closed in 1998 and the services transferred to Box Hill Hospital. Julie Collette, former General Manager, donated this cot and other items to the Museum collection in 1998. The mattresses were made by 'Cloudsoft' bedding in Fitzroy, Victoria. Infant's cot, made of wire and wire mesh, with two covered mattresses [218.2, 218.3]. Mattress cases are printed with text that reads 'Northern Hospital Linen Service - 51' and 'Stericlean Linen Service'.infant care

This chart was used in the antenatal classes and labour ward of St Georges Hospital, Kew. The original drawings for the chart by WJ Pardoe were made under the supervision of Assistant Professor CFV Smout, Department of Anatomy, Birmingham University 1945.A chart depicting foetal circulation in an infant male. The chart is made of paper with cloth backing and is supported by wooden hanging bars at top and bottom. Blue and wdhite hanging string is secured at the top with metal eye hooks. The char is secured at the top with metal tacks and there is a cotton tape to secure it when rolled. infant care

Bulbous clear glass bottle with necks/openings at either end. Embossed lettering reading "The/STAR/Feeder" on the front/top of bottle. Underside of the bottle is flat to allow for the bottle to sit on a flat surface. "HOWRAH" embossed on underside.The/STAR/Feeder; HOWRAHinfant care

This stethoscope , or auriscope, came from the Royal Devon & Exeter hospital in 1958 when the maternity unit was transferred to the new City Hospital. Dr Walker in his correspondence states: "The foetal auriscope is from the days of modesty, came from the Royal Devon & Exter Hospital in 1958, when its maternity ward transferred to the new City Hospital and storage for memorabilia was unavailable." This item is similar to Stoke's stethoscope, or Barclay's stethoscope, as illustrated in Tiemann's catalogue of 1899. The stem of this stethoscope is, however, much longer than either of these. The stethoscope came with a letter written to Dr Walker's maternal grandfather by Dr. James Young Simpson. This letter was transferred to the RANZCOG Archives following conservation treatment by the Conservation Centre.A lightweight wooden stethoscope with long stem and a black ebony bell on one end. The bell is almost flat. 37.5 cms in length.infant care

Manufactured in Germany, such scales were widely used in Infant Welfare Centres across Victoria (and possibly other states) in the 1970s. A midwife/infant welfare nurse named Martine Jackson recalls seeing a set of weighing scales like this as a student in the 1970s in Melbourne. These weighing scales were part of a rare collection of medical, dental and pharmaceutical objects belonging to a tourism business, Kryal Castle, near Ballarat, Victoria from 1974. As collection records were not retained by Kryal Castle, the further provenance of these scales has been lost.Set of metal weighing scales. Consists of a curved dish sitting on a base, with a slide gauge in imperial measurements at the front. The gauge ranges from 0 to 32 lbs. Dish and base are coated in cream coloured paint. Triangular plaque attached to the front of the scales gives the details of the manufacturer (Vogel & Haike).infant care

This appliance can used in two different ways: externally to spray antiseptic mist on to the skin or internally on the back of the throat. Insufflator is the clinical term for spraying. This was used by a midwife in the care of mother and newborn babies. (Becton Dickson)Mary Howlett (1840-1922) began practising as a country midwife in 1866 in the western district of Victoria. She qualified as a 'ladies monthly nurse' in 1887 and continued to practise as a nurse and midwife until 1920.She began her six months training at the Melbourne Lying-In Hospital. She was known by many as 'Auntie', and her career spanned more than 50 years. Mrs Howlett's midwifery box and contents were given to Dr Frank Forster, and he donated them to the museum collection in 1993.White metal applicator, probably made from nickel plate. Consists of three sections - application cup (.1), watch spring attached to a piston and flange (.2), and a section of metal connection (.3). Applicator was originally attached to a glass tube mounted on black vulcanite by metal connections of various sizes. Inscribed 'BECTON DICKSON & CO/PAT. DEC. 06", "RUTHERFORD N.J."midwifery, infant care

Feeding bottles of this shape were on sale from 1900 for about 40 years. The Allenbury feeder devised by Allen & Hanburys, U.K. was the first of this type. They were easier to clean and the mild flow was easier to regulate. Source: Kevill-Davies, Sally. "Yesterday's Children: The Antiques and History of Childcare" Mellin's Food was a company which produced patent milk solids and cereal preparations from c1860s. English food chemist Gustav Mellin developed an infant food formula in the late 1860s, dubbed Mellin's Food, which became the most widely used mass produced food at this time. Source: Andrew Smith (2013). "Baby Food". The Oxford Encyclopedia of Food and Drink in America. ISBN 9780199734962. Glass feeding bottle. Bottle is loosely boat shaped with flat base, and neck and openings at either end. There is a small flattened area on the base to allow the bottle to balance. Writing embossed into bottle reads 'MELLIN'S FOOD' and 'TABLE SPOONS'. Graduated markings for months of age and tablespoons. Visible join seams on bottle.infant feeding, infant care

These stamps were produced in 2004 to coincide with the centenary of IP Australia.Five postage stamps contained within a cardboard folder. Folder is in landscape format. The cover of the folder is printed with an illustration of a Hills Hoist clothesline on a green and yellow background. The words 'AUSTRALIAN/INNOVATIONS' are printed at centre atop the image of the clothesline, with each letter depicted as 'pinned' to the clothesline with clothes pegs. 'Australian Innovations' is printed again on the front of the folder at bottom right. Back of folder is printed with a blurb explaining the idea behind the commemorative stamp issue contained within. The inside top of the folder carries five stamps in two rows, contained within a protective plastic sleeve. The top row of stamps contains three stamps, and the lower row contains two stamps. Subjects featured on top row from left to right are: 'Black Box/ Flight Recorder 1961', 'Ultrasound Imaging/Equipment 1976', 'Racecam TV/Sport Coverage 1979'. Subjects featured on bottom row from left to right are: 'Baby Safety/ Capsule 1984', 'Polymer Banknotes/1988'. Bottom section of inside of folder is printed with a list of Australian innovations alongside the year in which they were patented. Background illustrations on the inside of folder feature sketches and words relating to other Australian innovations. ultrasound, infant care

This photograph is taken in the home of the Mother and babe and shows a RDNS Sister who is visiting to give the mother and babe Post-natal care. Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) had a Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC) service which gave Post-natal care to new born mothers and babes in their homes following their early discharge from hospital, or if required for other reasons. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a day. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and a pioneering Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor at the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who worked in DIMC also had their Infant Welfare Certificate, though Midwifery trained nurses also visited. Black and white photograph showing, to the left, a Royal District Nursing (RDNS) Domiciliary Postnatal Sister, with long hair drawn up, and wearing a white gown. She is attending to a new born baby in her wicker bassinet at the baby's home. The Sister is smiling and has her left hand by the shoulder of the wrapped babe, and her right hand is resting lower on the baby. The baby's mother, who has curly short dark hair, is dressed in a floral blouse and dark cardigan. She is standing to the right of the Sister and behind the bassinet, and is looking down at her babe and smiling. Her left hand is resting on the bassinet. The baby has dark hair and has her hand partly covering her mouth. Part of a picture is seen on the wall behind the mother.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns domiciliary post natal service, rdns domiciary infant and maternal care, rdns dimc

RDNS Sister Pilmore is visiting a babe and mother to administer Post Natal nursing care and give health advice. The Trained nurses of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), visited patients in their home and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing, and to people of many cultures, throughout its 130 years of expansion. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. Their patients ranged in age from babes, children, adults to the elderly and referrals were taken from Hospitals, General Practitioners and allied Health facilities. Some of the care the Sisters provided is as follows: – Post-Natal care given to mother and babe, Wound Care following various types of surgery, accidents, burns, cancer, leg ulcers etc. Supervising and teaching Diabetic Care, including teaching and supervising people with Diabetes to administer their own Insulin, and administering Insulin to those unable to give their own injections. Administering other injections and setting up weekly medication boxes. The Sisters performed Catheterizations on adults suffering from conditions such as Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and Guillan-Barre Syndrome, and when required at school on children for e.g. those with Spina Bifida. The Sisters visited those requiring Cystic Fibrosis support and care; those requiring Haemo-Oncology care, including visiting children at school; those requiring Home Enteral Feeding care, and those requiring IV therapy at home and home Dialysis. Palliative Care was given including pain relief with the use of syringe drivers, personal care as needed, and advice and support to both patient and family. The Sisters provided Stoma management to those needing Urostomy, Ileostomy and Colostomy care and those requiring Continence care. HIV/AIDS nursing care was provided; visits to Homeless Persons were made. Personal care was given to patients ranging in age and with varying mobility problems, such as those with MS, MND, Guillan-Barre Syndrome, Poliomyelitis, Quadriplegia, Paraplegia, Acquired Brain Injury, to those following a Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke), those with severe Arthritis and those with a form of Dementia. When necessary the elderly were assisted with personal care and advice given on safety factors with the use of hand rails, bath or shower seats, and hand showers. Rehabilitation with an aim towards independence remained at the forefront of the Sister’s minds and when possible using aids and instruction on safe techniques enabled the person to become fully independent. All care included giving advice and support to the patient and their Carers. The Sisters liaised with the persons Doctor, Hospital and allied Health personal when necessary.On the left of the black and white photograph is the side on view of a seated Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Kaye Pilmore, who is visiting a mother and her babe in their home. On the right the mother, who is seated, has dark shoulder length straight hair, and is wearing a white sleeveless frock. She is looking at the Sister while she holds her dark haired baby on her knee. The babe is wearing a light coloured top. Sister, Pilmore who has dark short straight hair, is wearing her RDNS summer uniform of a white short sleeve blouse under a dark V neck tunic style frock with the RDNS insignia on the upper left. She is holding a pen in her left hand. Closed checked long curtains are seen in the background of the photograph. The partial dark haired head of another person can be seen in the left hand side foreground.. G 155 is stamped in green inkrdns, royal district nursing service, rdns patient care, sister kaye pilmore, rdns domiciliary infant and maternal care (dimc)

The RDNS Sister is giving Post Natal care to the Mother and babe. She is wearing her RDNS summer uniform which is a white short sleeve blouse under a royal blue V necked tunic dress with the RDNS insignia emblazoned on the upper left.In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth they gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and an Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal Service with general and midwifery trained MDNS nurses working from a room at Footscray Hospital, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Now as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended to a Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give post-natal care to the mother and babe.Black and white photograph of a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister visiting a family in their home. The family are sitting on a dark coloured couch. From left to right:- The father, who has short dark hair and is wearing a light coloured patterned shirt and dark pants, is looking at his young blond haired daughter who is sitting on his right knee. She is wearing a light coloured top and darker coloured bib and brace pants. The mother, who has long dark hair and wears glasses,.is next to him and is smiling and looking towards the RDNS Sister. She is wearing a long sleeve buttoned grey top and darker coloured slacks, and is holding her babe in her lap with both hands supporting the baby's head. The babe has sparse dark hair and is wrapped in a white bunny rug. Next is a young girl, who has short dark hair and is wearing a light coloured top, darker coloured slacks and has her hands on the top of her left striped sock. Seated on the far right is the RDNS Sister, who has short straight dark hair, and has her face turned towards the child and mother. She is wearing her RDNS uniform of a short sleeve white blouse under a dark V neck tunic style dress which has the RDNS insignia on its upper left. The Sister has a pen attached to the V neck of the tunic and is holding a note book in her hands. She has a watch with a dark band attached to her left wrist. In the background part of a wooden and glass door can be seen and a patterned wallpapered adorns the wall behind the couch.Photographer stamp. Quote No EA 28melbourne district nursing society, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, dimc, mdns midwifery, rdns domiciliary infant and maternal care

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

This photograph shows an RDNS Sister doing Liaison work at a Hospital. She will pass the information given about the babe to the RDNS Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC) Sister who will be visiting the baby and her family in their home. Sr. Schofield is wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a V neck tunic style frock made of herringbone winter material.Liaison had occurred between Doctors and the Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885. This increased when Midwifery was introduced in August 1893 with close liaising with the Women’s Hospital. As District nursing grew it was recognized that closer liaising between many Public Hospitals would be beneficial, for not only the MDNS, later called Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Trained nurses (Sisters), but also for the patients and the hospitals. In August 1964 a Liaison Officer commenced at the Alfred Hospital. This soon increased to Liaison Officers working full time at several Public Hospitals. They facilitated the smooth transition from hospital to home for many patients who required ongoing nursing care. Liaison Sisters regularly attended discharge planning meetings, interviewed prospective patients, co-ordinated discharge, and booked the first visit by the visiting RDNS Sister. At the time of a patient’s discharge, the Liaison Sister forwarded information on their diagnosis and instructions regarding the care required at home to the appropriate RDNS Centre, and in turn the attending District Sister wrote a report of progress and any queries to the Hospital Doctor, via the Liaison Sister, at the time the patient was attending outpatients. Any new instructions were then sent back to the District Sister. Liaising also occurred between District Sisters and Doctors when patients were referred by General Practitioners and did not attend a hospital. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a day. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and a pioneering Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor in the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who worked in DIMC also had their triple Infant Welfare Certificate, though double certificate Midwifery trained Sisters also visited. On the left of this black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister Margaret Schofield, who has her long dark hair drawn back, and is smiling as she looks down at a baby being held in the arms of a Hospital Sister. Sr. Schofield is wearing a light grey skivvie under a V neck dark tunic style frock. She has a pen in the V of her tunic, and has a watch hanging under the RDNS logo on its left hand side. Her left hand is resting on a white table which has baby scales with a wicker basket on it. To the right, is the Hospital Sister, who is side-on and facing Sr. Schofield. She is wearing dark rimmed glasses; has her long dark hair drawn back and is wearing a dark cardigan over her white uniform. She has her right arm under the baby with her hand on babe's right leg; her left hand is holding the baby's feet. The baby has sparse dark hair and is wearing a white patterned jacket. Part of a dark filing cabinet is on the right of the photograph and behind the Sisters is a large window, then grass, small shrubs and part of a corrugated clad building can be seen beyond.Barry Sutton LP 43royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns dimc, rdns uniform, sister margaret schofield

Sister Snyders is based at RDNS Essendon Centre. She is a trained midwife working in the RDNS Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care (DIMC), section and is attending a recently born baby in her home to give Post-Natal care. Often mothers and babes came home early from hospital, many after 24 hours of birth, and RDNS Sisters attended for several days to check babies progress, including - colour, feeding regime, weight, take a PKU test and give any advise needed to the mother. They also gave Post-Natal care to the mother. In August 1893 Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), commenced a Midwifery Service with Nurse Fowler, who was trained in General nursing and Midwifery nursing, being the first Midwife employed. Mothers were assessed for suitability of a home birth or if they required delivery at the Women’s Hospital. The Midwife worked in conjunction with the Doctors at the Women’s Hospital and if a complication arose before or after birth the patient was transferred to their care. Following birth, the Midwife gave Post-Natal care to both the mother and babe commencing with visits twice a day. In 1898 the service ceased due to lack of funds but recommenced in 1906, and in the August 1925 Annual Report the number of MDNS home births was recorded at 478. MDNS built the After-Care Home and a pioneering Anti-Natal Clinic was opened in 1930. The last Ante-Natal clinic was held there in December 1951 and the MDNS Midwifery service ceased in February 1952. MDNS established Melbourne's first Family Planning Clinic in 1934. In 1964 MDNS commenced a Post-Natal service with General and Midwifery trained MDNS Sisters working from a room on the ground floor at the Footscray Hospital Nurses quarters, and visiting early discharged Footscray Hospital maternity cases at home. Later, as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), this service was extended and renamed as Domiciliary Infant and Maternal Care, (DIMC) service operating from most Centres and visiting early discharged, often 24 hours after birth, maternity cases from hospitals to give Post-natal care to the mother and babe. Many of the RDNS Sisters who carried out DIMC visits also had their Triple i.e. Infant and Child Welfare Certificate, though Midwifery trained nurses also made visits. This black and white photograph shows a close up view of Sister (Sr.) Mary-Ann Snyders from Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), who is standing and cradling a recently born baby in the crook of her left arm; her supporting arm extends along the babe and her right arm is under babe. Sr. Snyders has short dark hair and is wearing a white gown over her uniform. She is smiling down at the babe, who has dark hair and is wearing a check bib over a white nightdress. To the left, voile curtains are seen over a window and in the background, part of an open patterned curtain is seen.Barry Sutton LW 4royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns dimc, sister mary-ann snyders