H.—3l.

In Scandinavia and Holland the midwife has for many years been practically in the employ of the State. The 1936 Midwives Act of England and the Maternity Services Act of Scotland brings the same conditions into being in Great Britain, and it is very questionable if in this country it will not be necessary to introduce a similar system to ensure that conditions of employment are such as to attract the best type of nurse to this type of service.

Showing (per 100 occupied beds) Particulars of Nursing Staff Employed at Training Schools as at 31st. March, 1938.

Health of Nurses. The continuation of this study has, there is no doubt, resulted in increased interest in this important subject. When the study originated it was pointed out that this should be considered from various angles : — (а) The more careful examination and supervision of the nurse's health. (б) Measures to protect the nurse, such as a generous and varied diet, hours of duty, livingconditions, and an arrangement whereby uniforms worn in the wards did not leave the wards even when the nurse went for meals. (c) The improvement and standardization of nursing technique.

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