These student nurses are doing their Nursing training at the Western General Hospital and are being given a lecture by RDNS Nurse Educator, Sister Hengstberger, during their Community Nursing Education Program with RDNS. The photograph is taken at the RDNS Education Department at 448 St. Kilda Road. Sister Hengstberger is wearing her RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvy worn under a blue/grey herringbone V necked winter weight tunic style dress. During their training, Student nurses from several hospitals either attended the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Education Department, or, a RDNS Nurse Educator travelled to the appropriate hospital’s Education Department to educate the Trainees on District nursing through the RDNS Community Nursing Program. Following the lectures, Students went to a RDNS Centre and each student accompanied a Registered nurse (Sister) for a week observing and gaining knowledge of all facets of nursing care in the home. This gave them an insight into the home conditions and situations patients faced after discharge from hospital. During 1971 there were 584 student nurses who received field experience with RDNS.Black and white photograph showing Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Cecily Hengstberger, who is wearing glasses and has short dark hair, instructing a group of student nurses. Sister Hengstberger is standing facing the group and is wearing her RDNS uniform of a dark V necked tunic style dress over a lighter colour skivvie. The RDNS logo is emblazoned on the upper left hand side of the tunic. She is standing in the centre rear of the photograph, facing the students, and is holding a piece of white paper in her hands. From the foreground of the photograph, the backs of several rows of nurses, wearing a variety of day wear, can be seen seated at small, metal framed, dark wooden top individual tables. The tables have sheets of paper and pens on them. In the left background of the photograph stands a small blackboard; above this is wall clock, and to its right a large blackboard is.attached to the wall.Photographer stamp. DR 17mdns, melbourne district nursing society, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, sister cecily hengstberger

Sister Rignall is undergoing In-service education at RDNS and is wearing the grey RDNS uniform of that era.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 who trained 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 nurses receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in this In-service Education and established the MDNS, later called 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 trained nurses 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. Many programs were run at RDNS, 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 clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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 did a Post Basic Course 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. Black and white photograph showing Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister J. Rignall using the Library facilities at RDNS. Sister Rignall has short curly hair and is wearing her short sleeve grey uniform frock; the RDNS insignia is seen at the top of her left sleeve. She is standing and looking down at a book she is holding. Shelves of library books are seen running behind her on her left hand side.Photographers Stamp and Quote No. GW 94melbourne district nursing society, mdns, royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, rdns library, sister j. rignall

The photograph is taken in the RDNS Education Department at 448 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. Mrs. Gerardi and Mr. J. Psaros are Telephone interpreters. Sr. E. Comb is learning, by role play, how best to communicate with people who have limited understanding of English. The other Sisters are observing the role play. One Sister is wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a dark blue cardigan over a light blue/grey skivvie and V neck tunic style frock made of blue/grey herringbone winter material. Sr. Perillo is wearing the RDNS summer uniform of a short sleeve white blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock. The RDNS logo is seen on the upper left of the frock. The other uniforms are a royal blue dress with white piping around collars.The Trained nurses (Nurses) of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), visited patients in their home and gave best practice care in many fields of nursing, and to people of many cultures, throughout its 130 years of expansion. Initial visits not only assessed the specific nursing situation but the situation as a whole. The RDNS Trained nurses (Sisters) visited patients from many different cultural backgrounds, and Education was given to their Sisters to assist them when speaking with the patients and giving them care. 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.In the left foreground of this black and white photograph is a side-on view of Mrs. G, Gerardi, who is wearing glasses; has dark curly hair, and is wearing a black and grey vertically striped dress. She is sitting on a chair in front of a group of RDNS Sisters sitting at small rectangular tables which are butted together. Slightly to her left rear sits Mr. J. Psaros, who has short thick dark hair; is wearing a black leather type jacket, black trousers, white shirt and dark tie. He is looking at Mrs. Gerardi. To his left sits Sister (Sr.) E. Comb, who has short dark hair and is wearing a uniform dark cardigan over a dark dress with white piping on the collar. She is facing the group and looking at Mrs. Gerardi. In the centre of the photograph is the first of the seven RDNS Sisters at tables, five in the front, and two partly hidden in the row behind; they are also looking at Mrs. Gerardi. This Sister has curly dark hair and is wearing day clothes of dark slacks and a dark top, with white circle logo, over a white blouse the peaks of which are seen. The Sister. to her right has short straight dark hair and is wearing a dark cardigan over a light grey skivvie and V neck tunic style frock. The name on a card in front of her is indistinguishable, but 'Footscray' is seen. The next, Sr. Arrisa Perillo, has short curly dark hair and is wearing a short sleeve white blouse under a dark V neck tunic style dress. Her name and the word 'Footscray' is on a card in front of her. The next Sr. has short blonde curly hair and is wearing a dark cardigan over a dark dress with white piping around the peaks of the collar. The next the Sister is partly hidden. Her name is written on a card in front of her, this is indistinguishable except for the word 'Caulfield'. A large dark handbag with light colour motif on it, sits on the light colour carpet under the front section of Sr. Perillo's table. In the background are five windows with open Venetian blinds. Barry Sutton. Quote LJ60rdns education, royal district nursing service, rdns, telephone interpreters, mrs g. gerardi, mr j. psaros, sister e. comb, sister perillo

Miss Evans, Director of Nursing of Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), is holding an Education session with RDNS staff. Her uniform is a grey skirt and jacket with the RDNS badge emblazoned on her right shoulder. The badge has a white background and black writing. The RDNS Sisters are wearing their grey uniform frocks and red cardigans. 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, 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 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 trained nurses 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 clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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 Registered Nurses. Black and white photograph showing Miss Mary Evan standing in the centre rear of the photograph. She is with five RDNS Sisters who have short hair, three with curly hair and two with straight hair, who are sitting on chairs with white paged books resting on 'over the lap' tables. Three Sisters are seated in front of Miss Evans, and another two Sisters are sitting in the foreground. Miss Evans, who has short dark curled hair, is wearing her grey uniform jacket which can be seen with the RDNS cloth badge visible at the top of her right sleeve. She is bending over one of the Sisters and has her right hand pointing to something on the Sister's book. Closed light curtains are seen in the rear of the photograph and a dark desk to the right. On the wall above this, part of a blackboard can be seen.Photographers stamp. Quote No. GF 28rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns education, miss mary evans, rdns d.o.n

Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley is the Principal Nurse Educator at RDNS and is giving a lecture to RDNS Sisters in the Education Department at 452 St. Kilda Rd, Melbourne. She is wearing the RDNS summer uniform of a white short sleeve blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock with the RDNS insignia on the upper left.Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, later, in 1966, called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). From 1885, only Trained Nurses (Nurses), through the Hospital training system, were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. In 1961, Education programs commenced at MDNS with Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in In-service Education and established the RDNS Department of Community Nursing Education in 1962. Staff could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. Many of their senior Sisters received Postgraduate diplomas from the College of Nursing in Community Health Nursing, Education, and Administration, and several travelled overseas visiting nursing organizations viewing their public health and District nursing systems. At RDNS many programs were run, including: a Post Basic Course, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nursing, Haematology/Oncology Nursing, Palliative Care program, Diabetic Stabilization Program, Leg Ulcer Management Program, Wound Care Specialist Program, HIV/AIDS Nursing Care, Cystic Fibrosis Home Support, Veterans Home Care Program, Breast Cancer Support Program, Continence Management Program, Stomal Therapy Program, In-Home Lactation Support Program and the Homeless Persons Program. RDNS Sisters attended several hospitals to observe and learn special care needed to some patients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of patients in the Rehabilitation ward. A Community Nursing Education Program was extended to student nurses from hospitals and to other nursing organizations. These Education programs kept the RDNS Sisters abreast of new techniques, such as changes in technology for e.g. new testing methods in detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin obtained a Post Basic Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing and included this area in her Education lectures. Sr. Daphne Geldard specialized in the area of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. These Sisters visited patients in District areas with the regular RDNS Sister when required. Every member of staff, both professional and non professional staff, received regular education in the Education Department. In 1980, a Home Health Aide pilot study, funded by the Federal Government, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and RDNS, with the program written and taught by Sr. Rowley, was evaluated as successful, and Home Health Aides were employed and worked in RDNS Centres under the supervision of the RDNS Sisters. This black and white photograph shows Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley and seventeen (some partly hidden), Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters. The bulk of the photograph shows the front view of three rows of RDNS Sisters sitting at tables which have books and sheets of paper on them. The Sisters are wearing a variety of day clothes. In the right foreground of the Photograph is a table containing papers, and standing to its right, facing the group, is the back view of Sr. Rowley, who has short dark hair and glasses. She has her left hand on a sheet of paper on the table. She is wearing her RDNS uniform of a white short sleeve blouse under a dark tunic style frock. In the rear of the photograph a brick fireplace can be seen with some books and a vase of flowers on the mantelpiece. On the right is a long curtain, some lockers and an open wooden door with glass panel. Some of the Sisters named are:- Ann Greenwood, Judy Peter, Ethel Fullarton, Barbara Lovell, Shirley Lewis, Jane Ball..Barry Sutton Stamp. Quote LY 68royal district nursing service (1966-2017), rdns, rdns education, sister ethel fullerton, sister barbara lovell, sister shirley lewis, sister jane ball, sister pat (paddy) rowley, sister ann greenwood, sister judy peter

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

Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley is the Principal Nurse Educator at Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) and is standing with a group of RDNS staff in the Education Department at RDNS Headquarters, 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. Sr. Rowley is wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a blue/grey V neck tunic style dress made of herring bone winter material. She, and the lady in the white dress, are displaying the RDNS winter beret made of the same herringbone material as the RDNS winter dress.From its earliest years when the Trained nurses (Nurses) of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS began to wear uniforms the chosen colour was grey, though the style changed throughout the years as fashions changed from the late 1800s through to the 1970s. Their Nurses firstly wore long grey frocks, and on their heads, a white cap with a long white tail hanging from the centre back. When bicycles were introduced the headgear changed to a white pith helmet adorned with a red Maltese cross in the centre front. This was held on with a veil going over the hat and tied under the chin. Over the years there were complaints that the veils became wet in the rain and they asked for a change of uniform, but this did not happen until 1921. Later the Trained nurses (Sisters) complained their skirts became wet when riding their bicycles in the rain and asked, when raining, to be able to wear breeches and gaiters. This was granted provided they wore aprons when attending patients. It was not long before the uniform changed to a shorter length grey frock, red cardigan, grey coat and grey brimmed hat; later changed to a peaked grey hat. In 1966 MDNS were granted Royal patronage. Now as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), the uniform was redesigned and colour changed in 1971. By 1972 the Sisters were wearing the new winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a V neck tunic style frock made of blue/grey herringbone winter material with the RDNS insignia on the upper left, and a beret of the same material. In summer the uniform became a royal blue V neck tunic style frock, with the RDNS insignia on the upper left, worn over a short sleeve white blouse. A royal blue peaked hat with the RDNS insignia in the centre front was worn at first and then only worn on official occasions. This uniform was worn until changed to a corporate style in the mid 1980s,This black and white photograph depicts six Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) staff standing in two rows in front of closed long grey curtains. They are looking at the camera and smiling, some are partly hidden. L- R back row - A lady who has short dark hair and is wearing a grey and black patterned frock. Next is a lady with her black hair drawn back; is wearing black pants and a black sleeveless V neck jacket over a white skivvie. The next lady has wavy short dark hair; is wearing white slacks, a light grey jacket with lapels and the pocket on its upper left has a vertical zip in the centre. She has a black and white striped scarf around her neck. Front row L-R - A lady with shoulder length black curled hair who is wearing a white uniform style dress and is turned toward the right of the photograph. Her right hand is on the top edge of an RDNS beret which is held on its edge with the inner white lining seen, and the upper section showing the deep front of the beret which has a central RDNS logo. To the right of this, is Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley who has short dark straight hair; is wearing dark rimmed glasses and is wearing a light grey skivvie under a darker V neck tunic style dress. She is turned toward the left of the photograph and her right hand is holding the bottom edge of the RDNS beret and her left hand is on the top edge. The next lady, on the far right, has shoulder length black curly hair and is wearing dark grey slacks, and a black round neck jumper over a white blouse with the peaks and cuff seen.Barry Sutton MA 23 rdns, rdns education, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, sister pat (paddy) rowley

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

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

This black and white photograph shows a group of RDNS Sisters who are part of the Post Basic Community Nursing Course. They are receiving education from Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley, RDNS Principal Nurse Educator. The session is being held in the Education Department at the Royal District Nursing Service Headquarters, 452 St. Kilda Rd, Melbourne.The RDNS winter uniform worn is a blue/grey skivvie under a blue/grey V neck tunic style herringbone winter material frock.Melbourne District Nursing Service ran its first Post-Basic Course for community nurses in 1962. Sisters attended the course for 12 weeks. The course ran annually until the mid 1990s. 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 their 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 patients, e.g. to the Austin Hospital to learn the care required for paraplegic and quadriplegic patients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of patients in the Rehabilitation ward. A Community Nursing Education Program was extended to student nurses from hospitals and to other nursing organizations. These Education programs kept the RDNS Sisters abreast of new techniques, such as changes in technology for e.g. new testing methods in detecting glucose levels in Diabetic patients. Sr. Nan Deakin obtained a Post Basic Certificate in Psychiatric Nursing and included this area in her Education lectures. Sr. Daphne Geldard specialized in the area of Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia. These Sisters visited patients in District areas with the regular RDNS Sister when required. Every member of staff, both professional and non professional staff, received regular education in the Education Department. In 1980, a Home Health Aide pilot study, funded by the Federal Government, the Brotherhood of St. Laurence and RDNS, with the program written and taught by Sr. Rowley, was evaluated as successful, and Home Health Aides were employed and worked in RDNS Centres under the supervision of RDNS Sisters. This black and white photograph is of a group of seven Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters sitting in a semi-circle in two rows at single small two shelf tables. There are open white paged books or papers on each table and some of the Sisters have pens in their hands. The Sister sitting in the front far right is Sr. Affleck, who has dark short curly hair. The other Sisters have dark short hair in various styles. Further right in the photograph stands Sr. Rowley, who has dark short hair and is wearing glasses. She has her left hand supporting a torso of an anatomical model which is sitting on a table slightly to her left. She and the Sisters are looking at the vertebrae down the spine of the model. Another empty table is in front of the semi-circle and it sits in the centre foreground of the photograph. In the rear between Sr. Affleck and Sr. Rowley, a piece of equipment stands on a table. To the right of the photograph part of a large blackboard can be seen. The Sisters are wearing light grey skivvies under a darker V neck tunic style frock with the RDNS insignia on its upper left.Photographers stamp. Quote No. LD 8rdns education, rdns uniform, royal district nursing service, sister pat (paddy) rowley, sister margaret affleck

The RDNS Sisters are wearing the uniform of the day which was a short sleeve white blouse under a royal blue V neck tunic style frock with the RDNS insignia on the left upper area. Sister Pelosi is being transferred by another RDNS staff member from a bed via a hoist into a wheelchair as a demonstration during an Education session.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 the person in their home. In the 1970s RDNS employed a Physiotherapist who taught RDNS staff correct transferring techniques, including the use of a hoist when this became available. RDNS staff taught and used these techniques in patient’s homes to undertake safe transfer of the patient and to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and family members.Black and white photograph of a Sister of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), demonstrating the transferring of Sister Helen Pelosi into a wheelchair using a Hydraulic Hoist. The Sister standing behind the wheelchair has short dark hair and is wearing the RDNS summer uniform of a white short sleeve blouse under a dark V neck tunic style frock. She has her hands extended supporting Sr, Pelosi, who has short straight hair; is wearing a white gown over her uniform and is suspended in a sling which is hanging from the cross bar of the metal hoist, and is just above the seat of the wheelchair. The upright pole and hydraulics, with bar 'pumping handle', is in front of Sr. Pelosi in the right foreground of the photograph. To its right is a bed with dark bedhead and white coverings.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns education, rdns equipment, sister helen pelosi

Miss Wright is the Education Director of Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) and is giving a lecture to the RDNS staff. Two of the RDNS Sisters are wearing their summer uniform which was a royal blue V necked tunic style frock, with the RDNS badge emblazoned on the upper left hand side, over a short sleeved white blouse. Three of the Sisters are wearing their winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvy under a blue/grey herringbone V neck tunic style winter material dress.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 their Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sister 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 graduated from the College of Nursing in Community Health, 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 clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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 did a Post Basic Course 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 SistersBlack and white photograph showing Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Miss Ora Wright seated at a table in discussion amid a group of nine RDNS Educators, Physiotherapists and Clerical staff. Miss Wright has short light coloured hair and has her head turned to her right. She is wearing a long necklace of mixed coloured beads over a light coloured top. Three of the staff are standing behind the seated group. Three staff are seated either side of Miss Wright. Two of the RDNS Educators are wearing white short sleeve blouses under a V neck tunic style dress and the other three are wearing a light coloured skivvy under a V neck grey tunic style dress. The RDNS insignia on a white background can be seen on the upper left of each RDNS uniforms. A blackboard full of white writing can be seen in the left rear of the photograph and several tables joined together are in the foreground. Two books and several sheets of white paper are in front of the seated staff.Photographer stamp. Quote No. DR 12royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, rdns clerical staff, rdns physiotherapist, miss ora wright

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

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

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

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

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

This photograph is taken in the office at RDNS Heidelberg Centre, and the RDNS Educator, Sr. Gawith is showing RDNS Sisters the areas covered by Heidelberg Centre. Sr. Gawith is wearing the RDNS uniform of a grey frock and red cardigan and the other three Sisters are wearing the newer RDNS uniform of a blue/grey herringbone coat with a curved material RDNS insignia attached on the upper sleeve. From its inception as Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), in 1885, their trained nurses worked in specific areas, 'districts'. Their first Trained nurse (Nurse) worked east and west, between Victoria Parade and Flinders Street and, north and south, between Spencer Street and Spring Street. When a second Nurse was employed they divided this area at Elizabeth Street so each Nurse could attend to patients in the same area giving continuity of care. As the Society expanded, becoming Melbourne District Nursing Service, then, with Royal patronage, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) many Centres were opened throughout the Melbourne Metropolitan area and outer suburbs. The District nurse's (Sisters) areas (districts) grew and were divided within Shire boundaries for e.g. Knox 1, Knox 2, Knox 3, Knox 4, within the area of the Shire of Knox. On the left of the black and white photograph is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister (Sr) Mary Gawith, who has short dark curled hair. She is standing side-on and looking to the right as, with her extended left arm she is pointing her finger to an area on a large map attached to the wall. She is holding some white sheets of paper in her right hand. To her right and looking towards her are Sr. Daphne Geldard, who has short curled hair, is smiling, and has her hands clasped in front of her. On the right next to her, and partly hidden, is Sr. Bev. Armstrong who is smiling and has short straight blonde hair. In the front right of the photograph and partly hiding Sr. Armstrong is Sr. Elizabeth Francis, who has short dark curled hair and has her hands clasped in front of her. Sr. Gawith is wearing a grey uniform dress and dark cardigan. The other Sisters are wearing grey uniform coats with the RDNS insignia on the upper sleeve. Sr. Geldard is wearing below the knee black boots.Barry Sutton photographer's stamp, quote number KY 40, names of staff in the photograph.rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns district map, rdns uniform, rdns education, sister daphne geldard, sister elizabeth francis, sister bev armstrong, sister mary gawith

The photograph is taken in the Physiotherapy Department at Mount Royal Hospital. RDNS Sr. Sue Revill is from RDNS Moorabbin Centre and Sr. Helen Watt is from Footscray Centre, They are attending an Education session on Rehabilitation at Mount Royal. Hospital. They are wearing the RDNS winter uniform of a blue/grey skivvie under a V neck tunic style herringbone winter material dress with the RDNS insignia emblazoned on its upper left.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) who trained 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 their Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in this In-service Education and established the MDNS, later called 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. Many programs were run at RDNS, 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 clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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 did a Post Basic Course 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 Registered Nurses. Black and white photograph depicting, on the left, a side-on view of a Hospital Physiotherapist with her long hair drawn back in a pony tail, and wearing a grey V neck dress over a white blouse and a dark cardigan who is facing right. She has her left hand on the arm of a standing lady and her right hand on the lady's hand which is on a walking rail. To the right rear of the Physiotherapist is Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister Sue Revill who has shoulder length dark hair and is looking at the lady. To her right the elderly lady who is wearing glasses; has wavy white hair and is wearing a light grey frock, is standing in front of a wheelchair with her right hand on the walking rail. Her left arm hangs loosely by her side. To her right is a walking rail and standing to its right is Sr. Helen Watt who is looking towards the lady. She has short dark wavy hair, and has her right arm around the back of the lady and her left hand is on the walking rail. In the background of the photograph, the lower section of several 4 prong walking stick are seen hanging on the wall. Barry Sutton photographer's stamp. Quote KY 78rdns, royal district nursing service, rdns uniform, rdns education, sister sue revill, sister helen watt

The photograph is taken during an Education session at Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). The Sisters are wearing their grey uniform cotton frocks and red cardigans of that era.Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), later called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS), from its inception in 1885. Only Trained nurses (Nurses) were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. RDNS Trained nurses (Sisters) received In-service education and by the end of the 1960s there was an increased focus on rehabilitation and independence. Patients were offered rehabilitation and new lifting techniques were introduced to reduce physical strain on staff and family members. Royal District Nursing Service ran its own rehabilitation program requiring staff to be trained in techniques by RDNS Physiotherapists.Black and white photograph of Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sister Pat (Paddy) Rowley on left hand side, and Sister Joanne Wilkinson on right hand side, demonstrating the use of a hoist which has transferred Sister Liz Thomson onto a bed in the centre of the photograph. The bed is covered with white sheets and Sr. Thomson is lying on the bed with the sling of the hoist under her. The lowest metal bars and wheels of the hoist are under the bed and the top bars across the bed. Sr. Wilkinson's right hand is undoing the sling from the top bar of the hoist, and her left hand is holding the strap of the sling which is under Sr. Thomson. The Sisters are wearing their grey uniform frocks and dark cardigans. A window with two long floral opened curtains are behind the bed, and a strip heater is seen high on the adjoining wall.Photographers stamp. Quote No GW 90royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, equipment, sister pat (paddy) rowley, sister liz thomson, sister joanne wilkinson

The demonstration is being carried out in the bathroom at RDNS Headquarter, 452 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne. The Sisters are wearing their grey RDNS uniforms and red cardigans of that era. From the founding of the Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) in 1885, known as Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) from 1966, the rehabilitation of patients to insure they were able to live independently in their own homes was at the forefront of care given by their Trained nurses. As well as teaching and supervising the use of equipment, their Trained nurses taught them safe transfer techniques. These techniques were also taught to family members to enable them to care for their loved ones. RDNS at first held workshops given by a contracted private Physiotherapist before employing their own Physiotherapist in 1975 who taught staff the correct techniques, not only for safety of the patient, but to reduce physical strain on RDNS nursing staff and patient’s family members. When required the Physiotherapist accompanied the Sister on her visit to the patient in their home.staff to be trained in techniques by RDNS Physiotherapists.Black and white photograph showing a safety technique demonstration. Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister Liz Thomson, with her hair drawn back, is wearing a white gown over her uniform and is being transferred by Sister Betty McDonald, dark short curled hair. She has her arms extended supporting Sr. Thomson onto a bath seat. Sister Thomson has her left leg over the bath and the wooden bath seat can be seen positioned in the upper section of a white bath. Sister Joanne Wilkinson, who has short straight dark hair is on the right observing. Both Sr. McDonald and Sr. Wilkinson are wearing their RDNS uniforms of a dark cardigan over a grey frock. A white tiled wall with a strip of dark tiles is behind the bath.with metal piping attached to the right tiled wall and running to taps over the bath. A window is seen to the left of the tiled wall. Photographers stamp and Quote No. GW 8royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, equipment, liz thomson, betty mcdonald, joanne wilkinson

Mr. Bralsford,the Transport Manager at Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), is instructing RDNS staff in the responsibilities of driving an RDNS vehicle. The Sisters were undergoing a Post Basic Course given by RDNS Educators, Car maintenance was necessary from 1937 when a car was donated by the Rotary Club to Melbourne District Nursing Society, (MDNS). Another car was donated, by General Motors-Holden, via the Duchess of Gloucester, in 1947, and the fleet began to grow from 1950 with seven Ford Prefects being provided by the Hospital and Charities Commission. For many years Melford Motors in South Melbourne maintained the MDNS fleet, until the fleet grew to the point of, the now named, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) providing its own Car Maintenance Division to service the cars regularly. The Royal Automobile Club of Victoria, (RACV), attended any breakdowns which occurred when nursing staff were on the road. Each new Sister employed by the Service was taken out for a driving test before she drove a District car. Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) has had various modes of transport over the last 130 plus years. At first, from 1885 as Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), their Trained nurses (Nurses) walked the streets and lane ways amid the slums of central Melbourne. As the Society expanded public transport was used; bicycles were bought by the Society in 1903 and used in inner areas until 1945. During the Spanish flu epidemic, in 1919, MDNS appealed for assistance to procure Motor vehicles so the Nurses could visit an influx of cases. Through trusts, grants and donations four 'Ford T Model' cars were procured which enabled the Nurses to triple their visits. Through constant use the cars were in such a poor state they were sold in 1927. A Motor Auxiliary was formed in 1929 to take Sisters to patients, and some Sisters used their own cars; even a motorcycle was used by one Sister in 1933. All these forms of transport were intermingled until, having received Royal patronage; the now Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) had its own full fleet of vehicles by the mid 1960s. In many areas there were unsealed roads, in various conditions, which the Sisters negotiated to reach their patients to give care. Seat-belts had been introduced to Victoria in 1959 and District fitted them to their cars from 1962, even though they did not become compulsory until 1970. The Melways Directory of maps was introduced in 1966 which was a boon to the Sisters, though it was a few years before it went beyond Seville, so those that did the Warburton and Powelltown area worked off a large paper map. 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. Black and white photograph showing Mr. Bralsford instructing RDNS staff. In the left foreground is Sister (Sr) Liz Thomson who has her dark hair drawn back, is looking down at a piece of white paper resting on the arm of the wooden chair on which she is sitting. In front of her are the back views of Sr. Betty McDonald with curled dark hair and to her right is Sister Joanne Wilkinson. Mr. Bralsford, who has short dark hair; is wearing glasses, and wearing a grey coat, is standing in front of them pointing to a blackboard with his extended left arm and hand. He is looking down, and has his right hand on a piece of white paper on a desk. A strip heater is high on the left hand wall.Photographers stamp and Quote No. GW 101royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns transport, rdns education, melford motors, racv, sister liz thomson, sister betty mcdonald, sister joanne wilkinson, mr bralsford

This photograph is taken in Mrs. McDonald's home and she is reading information provided to her by Sister Faye Cook of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) who is visiting to provide her with nursing care. Written communication is required between Mrs. McDonald and Sr. Cook. Sisters from the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) used various means to communicate with their patients who had various health conditions. Sometimes this was by written word, using interpreters or using digital devices. The RDNS Education department wrote instructions for patients to follow for various conditions and treatments to assist them in their care. The attending Sister discussed the instructions and left the leaflet with the patient. Examples of instruction included on how to sterilize dressings and equipment in the home and another giving information and instructions on diabetic care.. 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) who trained 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 their Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in this In-service Education and established the MDNS, later called 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. Many programs were run at RDNS, 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 clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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 did a Post Basic Course 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 Registered Nurses. Coloured photograph of Sister Faye Cook of the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), sitting with Mrs McDonald who is reading the top page of a white writing pad. On the left, sitting 'side on' looking at Mrs McDonald, is Sister Cook who has short dark hair, and is wearing her pale blue RDNS apron over her RDNS royal blue V neck tunic style frock which is over her short sleeve white blouse; she is wearing blue stockings. She is seated on a striped low stool in Mrs. McDonald's room. Mrs.McDonald is to her right, and is seated in a bone and brown patterned lounge chair with wooden arms. She has a bone coloured wrap over her hair, and is wearing a dark brown V neck jumper over a deep pink frock. She is hoding a magnifying glass in her right hand and is reading information on a white writing pad which she is holding in her left hand. In the rear of the photograph is a gas type fire set into a fireplace. A white cupboard with a drawer is seen to the right hand side. The wall behind is vertical boards.Red coloured 'Kodak' stamps. Handwritten information.royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, mrs mcdonald, sister faye cook

This photograph shows some of the information documents displayed on boards during an Education session on Palliative Care run by the Royal District Nursing Service Education Department.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 their 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 clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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 SistersColoured photograph of a Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sister standing in front of a Palliative Nursing Display board. The board has a white banner across the top with the dark blue words 'Royal District Nursing Service' written in capital letters. There are several light coloured background posters displayed on the large dark coloured display board. The Sister, who has her dark hair drawn up, is wearing a RDNS blue and white patterned blouse and short sleeve V neck dark blue jumper with a name badge attached on the upper left. The Sister is holding.a white sheet of paper. Part of a red covered table is seen in front of her. A mid green board with documents attached to it is behind and to the right of the Sister. Behind this is a pale green wall with part of a bench and two large windows showing a room beyond.royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns palliative care nursing, rdns education

This photograph is taken in Mrs Mann's home in the Melbourne suburb of Surrey Hills. The RDNS uniform worn by the Health Aides was a Royal blue dress with white piping on the collar and pockets worn under a dark blue cardigan. The RDNS Health Aides are visiting Mrs. Mann to administer nursing care which the RDNS Sister who attended Mrs. Mann had assessed and then demonstrated to them. Specific instruction.were written for the Health Aides to follow and the RDNS Sister did regular supervisory visits.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 RDNS Principal Nurse Educator. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was evaluated as successful. Following this Pilot study, Home Health Aides were employed by RDNS, and after instruction in the RDNS Education department, joined RDNS Centres and worked under the supervision of the RDNS Registered Nurses, (Sisters). The Sister assessed each patient, then introduced and supervised the Health Aide in the procedure required. The Sister wrote out clear, concise procedural instructions on a work card which the Health Aid followed each visit. If the Health Aide noticed any change in the client’s condition, this was reported immediately and the Sister visited. The Sister made routine visits to the client for review at least monthly. This black and white photograph shows, on the left hand side, Mrs. Gertrude Mann sitting at the table in the kitchen of her home. She has her grey hair drawn back and has a string of beads over her grey buttoned cardigan Standing to her right are two Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Home Health Aides. The closest is Miss Penny Goodwill who has long blonde hair, and far right,is Mrs Dorothy Byrne who has short curly dark hair. The Health Aides are wearing dark coloured dresses with white piping on the collars and pockets, Part of a white RDNS insignia can be seen beneath their dark coloured cardigans. . A check tablecloth is covering the table, and a bottle of milk, some jars, and a vase of flowers adorn it. The mantelpiece and part of a tiled fireplace containing a stove is in the background. Part of an open door is to the right rear. The top of a wooden slatted chair is seen in the right hand side foreground.Hand written names and information on back of photographroyal district nursing service, rdns, rdns home health aides, rdns education, mrs gertrude mann, home health aide dorothy byrne, home health aide penny goodwill

Miss Wright is Director of Education at Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS). She is sitting at a desk in the Education Department which was in Headquarters, 452 St. Kilda Road, until 1974 when it relocated to larger premises at 448 St. Kilda Road. Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS) from its inception in 1885, later called Royal District Nursing Service, (RDNS). Only Trained Nurses (Nurses) were employed by the Society, and on visits to patients they taught the necessity of hygiene and cleanliness, as well as the need for a good diet, to bring about good health. Doctor’s lectures were later given at the MDNS home to instruct patients and their families on prevention of disease. Education to patients continued throughout the years regarding health care and the use of equipment in the home. In 1961 Education programs commenced at MDNS with their Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Staff could also apply for scholarships to further their education outside of RDNS. At RDNS many programs were run, including: a Post Basic Course, Cardiac Rehabilitation Nursing, Haematology/Oncology Nursing, Palliative Care program, Diabetic Stabilization Program, Leg Ulcer Management Program, Wound Care Specialist Program, HIV/AIDS Nursing Care, Cystic Fibrosis Home Support, Veterans Home Care Program, Homeless persons Program, Breast Cancer Support Program, Continence Management Program, Stomal Therapy Program, In-Home Lactation Support 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 clients at home and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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. Black and white photograph of Miss Ora Wright, who has light coloured wavy hair and is wearing a grey long sleeve top with a long string of mixed coloured beads hanging over it. She is sitting behind a dark coloured wooden desk and has a pen in her right hand poised to write on a white sheet of paper. Her left arm is bent with her hand holding the light coloured hand-piece of a telephone to her left ear. There is a large blotter and other sheets of white paper on the desk as well as three thick books standing on the front right hand side of the desk. Behind her to the right is a two drawer filing cabinets and above this is a large board with charts running down it. On the left hand side of the photograph a low table with papers stacked on it. Above this, attached to the wall, is a rectangular board with horizontal and vertical rows marked out and some white cards on it. On the far right of the photograph, part of a wall and open Venetian blinds over a window can be seen.Photographer stamp and Quote No. DR 2royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, ora wright,

The three student nurses are from Footscray Hospital. The photograph is taken outside the RDNS Footscray Centre where Sister Ellen Anderson is the Supervisor. Sister McHugh is about to take one of the student nurses with her to observe her giving nursing care to patients in the community. During their training, Student nurses from several hospitals either attended the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Education Department, or, a RDNS Nurse Educator travelled to the appropriate hospital’s Education Department to educate the Trainees on District nursing through the RDNS Community Nursing Program. Following the lectures Students went to a RDNS Centre and each student accompanied a Sister for a week observing and gaining knowledge of all facets of nursing care in the home. This gave them an insight into the home conditions and situations patients faced following discharge from hospital. During 1971 there were 584 student nurses who received field experience with RDNS.Black and white photograph showing two Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sisters and three student nurses Two student nurses, in their light coloured hospital uniforms, white caps, and dark capes are on the left of the photograph standing on the footpath and nature strip facing Sister E. Anderson, who is standing to the left of a tree on the nature strip. She has short dark curled hair and is looking to her right towards the nurses. She is wearing her RDNS grey long sleeve uniform dress. A grey coloured car is at the kerb to the right of the photograph. Standing by its front open passenger door is RDNS Sister Clare McHugh, who is wearing her grey uniform coat, with RDNS insignia on the upper area of the sleeve, and she is wearing a grey peaked hat over her short light coloured hair. She is holding her rectangular nursing case in her right hand and her left hand is resting on the top of the open car door. The inside padding of the door can be seen. A hospital uniformed student nurse is standing at the opened passenger door close to the car. Part of two white cars are seen in front of the grey car. Two trees are seen in the left background and houses and trees are seen to the right.Photographers stamp. Quote No. KH 64royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education to student nurses, sister e. anderson, sister clare mchugh, rdns uniform

The Student nurses are trainees from Footscray Hospital who, as part of their training, are to go out with and observe RDNS Sisters at work for a week. Sister Anderson is Supervisor of RDNS Footscray Centre, During their training, Student nurses from several hospitals either attended the Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Education Department, or, a RDNS Nurse Educator travelled to the appropriate hospital’s Education Department to educate the Trainees on District nursing through the RDNS Community Nursing Program. Following the lectures Students went to a RDNS Centre and each student accompanied a Sister for a week observing and gaining knowledge of all facets of nursing care in the home. This gave them an insight into the home conditions and situations patients faced following discharge from hospital. During 1971 there were 584 student nurses who received field experience with RDNS.Black and white photograph showing two Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters and three student nurses outside the glass door and large glass window, with a white rectangular sign with the black capital letters, some partly hidden, "Royal District Nursing Service Footscray Centre" attached. In front of this, on the left hand side of the photograph is a side on view of Sister Clare McHugh, wearing her uniform grey coat with RDNS insignia on the upper sleeve, and grey peaked hat over her blonde hair, looking towards two of the Hospital trainees to her right. They are wearing their hospital uniforms of a light grey frock with two rows white buttons down them, and white collars, white caps and dark capes. Further to their right is another uniformed Student nurse who is facing Sister E. Anderson who is in the far right of the photograph. Only the back of her dark short curled hair is seen, as she stands side on looking at the Student nurse. She is wearing her RDNS long sleeve grey uniform. Photographers stamp. Quote No. KH 66royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns - education of student nurses, clare mchugh,, ellen anderson,

This photograph is taken in the Physiotherapy Department at Mount Royal Rehabilitation Hospital. The Physiotherapist is giving an Education session to RDNS Sisters. The Sisters are wearing the RDNS winter uniform, which was a blue/grey herringbone winter material V neck tunic style frock over a blue/grey skivvie. Sr. Peter is wearing the uniform beret style hat which was made of the herringbone winter material. Education was an integral part of Melbourne District Nursing Society (MDNS), from its inception in 1885, later, in 1966, called Royal 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) who trained 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 their Trained nurses (Sisters) receiving In-service education. Sr. Pat (Paddy) Rowley was a leader in this In-service Education and established the MDNS, later called 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. Many programs were run at RDNS, 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 clients at home, and to Mount Royal Hospital to observe the care of clients 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 did a Post Basic Course 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 Registered Nurses. Black and white photograph showing Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), Sisters observing in a Physiotherapy Department. Left to right - Sisters Judy Peter, who is wearing her uniform beret over her light coloured curly hair, and kneeling and leaning over, with her right hand resting on a white pillow which is on a large thick mat. Next is Sr. Sue Revill, who has dark shoulder length curled hair and is kneeling behind a lady who is lying on her left side on a the mat which is on the floor. She has her head on a white pillow and facing frontward. She has light coloured curled hair and is wearing a dark grey long sleeve top. Next is the Physiotherapist, who has long dark hair drawn back in a pony tail and is wearing a dark cardigan over a white blouse and grey frock. She is kneeling on the mat with her hands on the lady's side. Sister Helen Watt, who has collar length curled hair is kneeling to her right and is holding the lady's outstretched right arm and hand and looking toward the Physiotherapist. The Sisters are wearing the RDNS uniform of a light grey skivvie under a V neck tunic style dress with the RDNS insignia on the upper left. In the background are some some vertical bars attached to the wall and part of a pillow can be seen in front of these on the large mat. On the right of the photograph is a heater and above this windows are seen. Photographer stamp. Quote No. KY 82royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, sister judy peter, sister sue revill, sister helen watt

Sister Gawith is a Nurse Educator with Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) and she is instructing a group of RDNS Sisters during an Advanced Post Basic Course being held in a room in the Education Department at RDNS. Most of the Sisters are wearing the RDNS winter uniform, which at that time was a V neck tunic style dress made of blue/grey herringbone winter material, over a blue/grey skivvie. Sr. Moore is wearing the summer uniform of a royal blue V neck tunic style dress worn over a short sleeve white blouse and a dark blue cardigan.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 graduated from the College of Nursing in Community Health, 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 did a Post Basic Course 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. The black and white photograph depicts a group of eight Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS) Sisters (Sr) seated and looking at, and some writing in, white paged books on tables in front of them. Seated in a semi-circle are. L - R: a Sister who is wearing glasses and has her dark shoulder length hair drawn back, then Sisters: Yvonne Laird, who has collar length dark hair, Anne Greenwood, who wears glasses and has short dark curled hair, a Sr with her long hair drawn back, then Sue Moore with shoulder length dark hair and wearing a dark V neck tunic style frock over a white blouse, and a dark cardigan. The next Sister, with dark hair, is partly hidden and next to her is Ethel Fullerton. who wears glasses and has curly hair. She is sitting with a pen in her right hand poised over white book. Sr. Mary Gawith, who has short dark curled hair, is standing in front of and slightly to the right of her. She is looking down at Sr. Fullerton and is holding an open book with the end of the spine resting on her table and showing the open pages to Sr. Fullerton. Sr. Judy Peter, who has her blonde hair drawn back, is sitting side-on in the centre foreground of the photograph with her arms resting on the other side of Sr. Fullerton's table. Most Sisters are wearing the RDNS winter uniform, of a V neck grey tunic style dress over a light grey skivvie. Photographer Stamp. Quote No. MA 22royal district nursing service, rdns, rdns education, sister mary gawith, sister yvonne laird, sister ethel fullerton, sister anne greenwood, sister sue moore (nee revill)