nt Lo n do n S W
COVE R, front an d b ack
T h e two faces of Pr ncess A n ne, th e n ew Comma ndant-in-Chief Cadets.
(F ront) H ow L o d S n owdon's lens saw her o n h er 19th birt hday, A ugu s 15 1969. (Ba ek ) At a game o po o, chatrt ing with grooms: p h oto by Ric h ard S ade
THE FOLLOWING is one of the monthly letters from H . Watkins President of Cleethorpes Ambulance Cadet Division, to the divisional members:
Dear Cadet, I am wrWng this letter in a room overlooking a very busy road junction. From the win d ow I see a blend of natu re and human endeavour. The setting is an island of grass with shrubs and flowers, around which the traffic revol ves. The perimeter comprises dwelling houses , business premises, and a public meeting place.
It is pleasant to watch the harmony of the setting; people pursuing different objectives within the compass of simple rules of conduct which are acceptable to them. Should anyone become careless or thought less the consequence would be distressing.
We who serve in the St. John Ambulance movement often become aware of injuries caused by lack of consideration. Even so, we are not in a position to criticise, for the simple truth is that we are liable to the same error, which can be corrected only by se lf-discipline.
Our home is a good place in which to take stock of ourselves for it is here that we can develop an unselfish nature by accepting the care of our parents with go o d grace , and contributing a little service in return. In this manner we assist our moral development
Honesty in word and deed is not the prerogative of great men Men become great because of these virtue s, and remain great for the same reason Religion and doctrine have a l,l.sefu l function - the search for truth is no t confined within the circle but open to all who seek with sincerity.
We live and move and have our being by divine providence, the acceptance of this simple tru t h is the ba sis of moral and spiritual progress along the pathway leading to God , who is His o wn interpreter and wil l reveal Himse lf to those who seek him in spirit and in truth.
Society needs young people of integrity who are prepared to accept all that science and industry offers and which ca n be used toward a fuller life an d a clearer understanding between mankind. The Order of S t. John , through the medium of t he ambulance and nur sing service. needs young people like you to f ulfil its mission of healing
We are proud of you ; we want you t o be proud to be one of us , so p ro ud that you will encourage others to bec o me interested and desire to serve along with us. We are proud of the interest of your parents - please tell them for us.
Y o urs sincerely , Yo ur Divisional President. H Wa tkins
helps provided it is not just a predictable rise and fall of the voice.
Do not try to impress your class by using unnecessary medi ca l term i nologythey will see through the device for sure. But, even more important , nev e r spe 2k down to your audience as some textbook s do, e .g ., by using words as tummy and even belly for abdomen. They will resen t!
by Frank Frewin
Area Training Officer, London District, South Western Area
'WHEN A university appoints a lecturer ,' says Dr. Kenneth Richmond, Senior Reader in Education at Glasgow, 'they base their choice on two things - the degree he's got and the number of learned articles he's published. The fact that he's g(')t two heads, a speech impediment, can't be heard at the back (')f a thirty-foot room and has no desire t(') communicate, doesn't seem to weigh.'
It is surely equally true that St. John members should carefully and critically assess their suitability to lecture before they attempt to do so to Association classes or, indeed, to fell(')w members of the Brigade. What are the qualities required? Certainly a wide knowledge of first aid and, in particular, of the relevant chapters of the Joint Manual. But these are net the only desiderata, as it is so often assumed they are. The ability to speak lucidly and convincingly is equally necessary. The potential lecturer should, too, feel the urge to lecture; he should enjoy teaching and be enthusiastic so that bis enthusiasm is caught by his class. As Drs. Ward-Gardner and Roylan ce have boldly stated, 'The holding of a medical degree dlDes not in our opmlOn aut(')matically qualify a ¥Jerson to be an instructor.' Even less does a mere knowledge of first aid. I offer the following suggestions to those who think they really have a call to teach.
What to say
Let your first few sentences be really arresting, for this is the only time you caIll be certain that everybody is listening. A speaker once started a demonstration of bandaging to a not very enthusiastic class 4
of youths by stating, brightly and breezily, that 'this is the dullest part of first aid that you will have to listen to. If you can keep awake during the next hour you must suffer from insomnia.'
Intrigued at this they stayed awake.
Do not try to teach too much at one session: this will defeat its own object and the class will remember nothing.
Above all, omit all unnecessary anatomy and physiology. It is better to lengthen the course by a week or so if sessions have to be too short.
If you can give the reason for a particular treatment , e.g., for raising the head and shoulders and legs for a fractured patella, its details will be better remembered. So, too, wi11 signs and symptoms; if you explain for instance why the face is pale and the skin cold in shock.
In Association classes, based on the J oint Manual , there is really no need to give the students a 'handout ,' but they should always be invited to take notes.
On the other hand, a typed summary of a lecture not base d on the Joint Manual is always of the greatest value to a class.
Emphasise again and again the correct order of doing things; in particular the priority that must be accorded to ensuring a patent airway. A significan t proportion of road deaths are due to well-intentioned bystanders doing less important things first.
How-eveF talented you are the class will be glad whero. you finish; therefoFe let them know when the end is near. The words 'iIll conclusion' or 'fina]1y' ensure full attention for a few minutes. Don't waste these minutes and don't abuse
them. There is nothing to eq ual the antagon ism of an audi e n ce to a peaker who h as said 'in conclusion' three times and finally twice and is stil l on his feet talking.
How to say it
Your posture and demeanour make an immediate and las ting impression on your audience Some visual mann e rism s are very distracting There are many varieties of the perpetual mov er: the simple wriggler , the rocker the long-distance walker , etc. It is best to be still and to stand up b ehind or by the lectern or table. It looks bad to loung e with your h ands in your pockets or inside your waistband like an adverti se ment for self-supporting trousers. You should nevertheless try to appear relaxed.
How loudly should you speak? This is a question that can be _ answered only by experience, but it is obvious that everything you say mu st be clearly audible without strain in the back row. If you are in any doubt , ask your class outright. Or, watch their faces for a few minutes and if there is any sign of straining to hear raise your voice immediately.
If there is a voice-amplifying system in the hall, select a microphone if you can that goes round t he neck, leaving the hands free. Inexperienced speakers hold hand microphones too close and broadcast a series of high-pitched shrieks and gale-force heavy breathing.
Speak slowly rather than fast, making Sl!tFe that th e pauses are between phrases and sentences and not between words.
Vary the pace, fast for part of the time then slow for emphasis. Monotony is the great enemy and any variation in delivery
does not shine when seen from any part of the room.
(b)Writing should be large enough to be read without strain from the back of the class. Headings bringing out salient points are more readily memorised than a great deal of handwriting which tends to confuse students.
A few St. John members can deliver an hour's lecture without referring to notes because they have spoken on the same subject many times befor e. To the les lucky ones I would offer two pieces of advice:
(a) write out a lecture i n outline first. Read this several times until you have mastered its contents thoroughly. Then print in bold capitals the headings and, if nec essary, sub-headings, on cards.
(b)use the ca rds by glancing down at them from time to time without lowering the head. If reading glasses are worn many people will find it easier to leave them off since the headings will have to b e read at a distance.
The blackboard is an invaluable adjunct to most lectures but to use it effectively the following points should be borne in mind:
(a) Before the class assembles confirm that the blackboard is clean and
(c) While writing on the blackboard your body inevitably hides what you are writing. Stand well aside when you have finished and go through what you have written.
(d)If you continue to talk to the class while you are writing - and you certainly should - re member to raise your voice so that you can still be heard.
(e) When you have finished talking about the subject on the board, rub it out immediately so that people's minds will not remain with the su bject matter once you have left it.
Enthusiasm is infectious
It is important to show that you are enthusiastic, for your enjoyment of the subject will very quickly be communicated to your class. But pleasure and humour do not demand jokes. Incidental 'cracks' are good but formal jokes should be avoided. There are many tnck s to keep the audience on their toes and it is wise to watch those and characteristics in other speakers that gam appreciative chuckl(fs from a class. Some speakers emphasise a particularly chOIce word or phrase and make it appear
spontaneous by pretending to search round for it hesitantly even though they thought of it three nights before.
In my opinion it is often best to invite th e class to interrupt the lecturer with questions rather than leave them until the end. U sually there is a prescribed time for the session to finish and it is impossible to foresee how long questions will take Moreover it is clearly better to answer a question while the paricular subject to which it refers is being discussed.
Some questions may be difficult to answer since answers cannot be prepared beforehand Pause and think for a moment before you reply and then make sure you answer the main point that was raised. I have heard speakers ask Does that answer your question?' They ought to know! The answer should be as short as possible. It is a question , not an invitation to give a second lecture. If you don't know the answer say so You will not sink in the estimation of your class unless you try to hide your ignorance and this device will often be all too obvious.
Remembe r the questioner from the audience has plucked up courage to stand up and speak. If his question does not require an answer it is nevertheless polite and helps him if you acknowledge it in some way even if only with a 'Thank you' or 'That's very interesting'
In answering questions like 'But suppose he also had a broken neck?' the calculated risk principle must be applied.
This principle is that if the correct and essential treatment for a major injury, in 99 cases out of a 100, is to do a certain thing, but that to do this is one case out of a hundred may result in a less favourable or an unfortunate result, the 1: 100 result must be accep ted.
The awkward customer
On rare occasions one meets a type who tries to show off his knowledge, quotes another speaker against you, or even overtly tries to score pCi.lints off you.
My firm advice in these curcumstances is not to get rattled or pitch in against him but rather to get him on your side by a little unashamed flattery. Compliment him on his knowledge; tell him that what he has quoted Dr. Smith as saying is very interesting and doubtless there is a lot to be said for: his opinion, but in the opinion of many other doctors (or the Joint Manual) ; or even bracket him with yourself 'Of course you and I know only tod well ' -
The St. John/Red Cross Joint Manual
The Joint Manual provides the basic facts, but a good lay lecturer should be able to speak outside the scope of the manual om occasions. Subjects that immediately suggest themselves are the detailed treatment of simple wounds, the treatment of wounds with embedded foreign body, the precise rhythm of oral resuscitation, etc.
Stage fright
Imagine you are at a party. You have been introduced to a number of people with whom you are conversing freely. They elicit the fact that you are a first-aider. Somebody says a friend of his was aGcidently poisoned and asks you what you would have done in the circumstances. You have no difficulty in telling him and, as you knCi.lW the subject, you are not a bit nervous in. doing so. Why? Because you are speaking in a normal conversational voke and the occasion is an informal one.
Now suppose you were asked to deliver a formal lecture on poisons to four times the number of people. If you had not lectured before you might be very nervous and yet you WQuid only be called upon to state the same facts to more people. The difference would lie in the femnality of the occasion and the fact that on the second occasion you would have to raise your voice. In fact the key to overcoming nervousness in speakir.J.g in public is getting used to the sound of your own raised voice.
You can overcome this by attending a number of public meetings and lectures om ClOy subject, maki1i1g a point of ashng questions at every opportunity. If you can do this a dozen times or so you will get used to hearing YOUlfself speaking with a raised voice, and your nervousness will rapidly disappear.
6
Charts and diagrams
St. John coloured wOl l[ charts are excellent for il]ustrating first-aid lectuFes: this is what they were desigNed for. They are simple, clear and relevant. But, here again, expose them to the class only when you are speaking from them; and confirm they are firmly fixed so that they don 't fall down during the lecture.
Colour slides
These are a rather laborious way of illustrating a talk and all too often add little to what a speaker is able to put over with the aid of a simple chart. But there are exceptions, e .g. the series of slides entitled 'How much blood?' showing what varying amounts of blood look like on the patient's clothing and on the ground. Possibly slides also have a place in presentations to the public in publicity campaigns. Certainly many of them are of considerable interest, as distinct from teaching value for first-aid. When used as teaching media for training, care should be taken to ensure that they are of value, directly relevant to the talk, do not contain a mass of extraneous material and, in Association classes, do not contradict the Joint Manual.
If, however , you decide to use a series of colour slides for a talk, be sure to stand where you can be seen. If the room has to be darkened for showing slides, keep that period to a minimum and try to ensure that you are still illuminated. Disembodied voices are diffic ult to listen to! Always have the lights on when you are concluding your talk.
Films
One does not often see a film that provides much information on first-aid, certainly little what could not be put over verbally. They are often very well produced, however , and a couple of well projected films may well attract the public, so that they have a part to play in St. John publicity campaigns. For first-aid and home-nursing tuition their use seems to me to be limited.
Models and similar aids
I was once present at a lay instructors' examination One candidate, when his tum came to speak, rose and proceeded to use several minutes to assemble and set up a series of charts, flannelgraphs and other visual aids. When at last he started to address the audience not one person listened to him: they were all gazing with astonishment and, doubtless, admiration - at his exhibits.
Use a visual aid, then, whether slide, film, or model, only where you are sure it is directly relevant to your lecture and will li eally add to the students' understanding of the subject.
Failing interest in the class
This should ideally never happen. If, however , you notice one or two students
becoming inattentive, the best plan is to put a question to one of them, e.g. ... and so what colour would you expect the patient's face to be, Mr. Brown?' This is a sure way of regaining and retaining his attention.
Of course if they all start yawning the fault is clearly with you - and you must wake yourself up
A sister tutor of a well known hospital once said 'If I see one of my pupils looking poorly I give her a pill. If I see them all looking poorly I give myself a pill'.
For p r a c tical demonstrations of bandaging, treatment of fractures and resuscitation, use a demonstrator if one is available with a: good knowledge of the J oint Manual. It is difficult to bend down on the floor to do up a broken fem ur and at the sa me time to look at your class and carryon a lucid oral commentary
It is good practice to pair the more advance d or bright students with beginners or the less bright. This is good for the beginner for it ensures that he gets a little personal help.
If the class is large and you have no demonstrator-assistant invite one or two of the more advanced students (if there are any) to help you check the work of the rest of the class. This practice has the dual merit of
(a) avoiding students having to wait about to have their work checked , which they find irritating ;
(b) encouraging the advanced student , by his being selected to take the lead to perfect his own knowledge.
If you are taking an Association course ensure that your lecture always comes after the doctor's on any given subject, especially resuscitation and fractur es Listen to his lecture if you have the opportunity and confirm that you won't have to contradict him. If you do, be ca u se what he says is not consistent with the J oint Manual, do not ignore the contra diction but offer a tactful exp lan ation of it.
In conclusion may I offer a brief su mmary:
(a) Be sure you have a flair for lecturing, for not every good first-aider has;
(b)know your subject;
(c)make a careful study of what you are going to say and how you will say it (this becomes progressively unnec essary with experience);
(d)speak with e nthu sias m so that this rubs off on to your class;
(e)use visual aids only where you see clearly that they will h e lp to illustrate y our talk.
References Gardner, A. w., Roylance , P. 1. Transactions of the Society of Occupational Medicine, 1967, 17. Meadow, R., The Lancet, Sept. 1969.
Supervised by J. Hindle, LRCP, MRCS, MB, BS, (Senior Casualty Officer, Luton and Dunstable Hospital)
2 Failure to observe these safety precaut ions may lead to a piece of hot metal being flung into the eye at considerable speed. The foreign body penetrates into the surface of the eye and also causes a small burn.
4 If the foreign body is seen on the cornea (the 'window' of the eye) no attempt should be made to remove it be cause almost certainly, further damage will be to the surface of the eye unless special techniques and instruments are used.
1 in Accidents to the eye can be prevented industry by weari ng protective goggles, or making use of the sh ield provided
3 A foreign body in the eye c a uses pain, spasm of the eyelids and profuse watering of the eye.
5 Simply apply a pad and bandage and send the cas ualty to hospital or his own doctor.
Reproduced by permission of the Ambulance Bulletin and thanks to Mrs. E. J. L ovett, Superintendent SJA Luton No. 1 Nu rsing Division and Mr. Amrat Kumar Pancholi, for their assistance. Photographs by Terence Wheeler.
William of Gloucgster, who visited Headquarters recently (see page 2), was an ambulance member of the Eton Division, as was his brother Prince Richard, while at Eton College. The Eton master who was superintendent of the Division from its foundation in 194 3 to 1962 (and who is now Commander SJA Buckinghamshire) recalled, the other day, Prince William 's service to the Division:
'It so happened that the Association course at which Prince William of Gloucester gained his First Aid Certificate in 19 S8 was the first course run by the Division for members of both sexes. It also happened that he was the only Eton boy taking that particular courSg, which made it easier to preserve his incognito by 'tipping off' those few who knew who he was. He chose for himself the pseudonym of 'William Edwards', which made it possible for those who knew him to call him William in conversation, but provided him with a surname that allayed all suspicion.
'The area surgeon who was giving the lectures (a Scot who had seen him at the Braemar Gathering) recognised him but gave nothing away. l'hgrg were several girls on the course from office or industrial jobs in Slough, who little knew, when doing their practical work, who their first aider (or their casualty) Prince William's identity on the course was thus kept a total secret until many weeks after he had passed his examination, when someh0w the press suddenly got wind of it; but by that time its news-value was too out of date to cause much stir, and mercifully the press never discovered that he subsequently joined the Brigade as an ambulance member and took his normal part in public and other duties.
Bailiff Grand Cross: Sir Gerald Creasy, KCMG KCVO , OBE; Sir Philip Southwell, CBE , Me. Dame Grand Cross The Dowager Lady Wakehurst, DBE.
Bedfordshire: Prof. J. e. Watts to be Commissioner Vice Mr. J F. Will sher. The Hon. Arthur Lawson Johnston to be Deputy Commissioner Vice Maj.-Gen. F. D. Moore
Cheshire: Mrs. A. Lawrence to b e County Supt. (N), Vi ce Mrs M. K. Burt
Hamilton
Cornwall: Major -Gen. E. M. Hall to be C.St.J .A. and Commissioner. Vice Rear-Admiral Boutwood.
Gloucestershire: Air Commodore E. B Harvey appointed Commissioner, Sou them Area.
Herefordshire : Mr. S. J. MayaU to b e Commander St. John Ambulance and Comm issioner. Vice Sir T e r ence Falkiner.
India: Dr. D. Ramanath appointed Commissioner No. 15 (Andhra) District. Vice Dr. 1. Bhushan Rao.
Leicestershire: Dr. H. L. Binni e appointed County Dire c tor. Tanzania St. John Council - The Hon. E. M. Sokoine, M P. appointed Chairman and Mr. R. B. Auka appointed Secretary.
W R. Yorkshire : Professo r J. K Beverley appointed Di strict Surgeon.
'Not having been a cadet, Pr in ce William did not qualify to join an adult division until he reached hi s 17th birthday, several month s after he gained his first aid certificate. Hi s official date of joining the Eton and Di st rict Ambulance Division was February 1 1959, and h e was a member of the Division throughout the year in which it changed its status from an ambulance division to a combined ambulance and nursing division. He expressed the wish to be trained at the ea rliest opportunity as a voluntary ambulance attendant with t he County Ambulance Service and in due course he started going to Slough
Ambulance Member 'William Edwa rds'. Improperly dressed?
ambulance station on Saturday afternoons as a supernumerary with another attendant until he had gain e d sufficient experience to go ou t as an attendant in his own right.
'He took his share of going out as attendant with th e full-time dr iver on whatever jobs came along, and although it never happened that a bad road accident or other serious emergency occurred when he was on duty, he gained the experience of dealing with minor emergencies and tran sporting sick perso ns from th ei r hom es to hospital - with all that that involved such as going into houses and transporting patients from bed to t he ambulance vehicle by carrying-sheet. The full-time staff played up superbly over all this, pres e rving his incognito with total success calling h im William and treating him as 'just one of th e gang '. On one occasion, when a nursing a ttendant had mad e the u sual p ot of tea at the ambulance station, one of the drivers sa id : 'Oh , these We were just getting him nicely trained to swab down the floor, and then she goes and gives him a 'A n event which speaks well for P ri n ce William 's high standards of personal integrity (as well as giving encouragement and good examp le to others in similar circumstances) occurred when the time ca me for him to take his first re-examination i n first aid. A s well as being very much i nv olved in in ter-house c ricket match es, h e was a t that time working ve r y hard for his A-lev e s, wi lh the r esult that hejust didn't find the time to pay proper attention to the r e vi ion of the B lack Book. Feeling that he ought to 'have a go rather than shirk his re-examination, he tried for it - and failed. Despite the fact that his Superintendent pointed out that his original ce rtifi cate was still valid an d assured him that he was satisfied for him to go on du ties with ot hers of greater expe r ience, Prince William quite firmly refused to undertake any further Brigade duti es until he h a d had mor e revision a nd practice in the Division a nd had retaken and passed his re-examination. This he did as soon as A-levels and c r icke t matche s were over, an d the exa min er went out of his way to report on th e exce ptionally high sta ndard of efficiency that he had shown as an examinee. 'He was very anxio u s to do a public duty at the Dolphin Football Stadium in
ambulance attendant's duty and 2 hours' other public duty to his credit
BY THE EDITOR
Slough, and one Saturday afternoon he went on duty there with his Superintendent. A player was injured in the match and they were called out on to the field to attend him, but nobody in the crowd had the slightest idea who the young man in St. John uniform
Another occasion when he escaped notice in carrying out the ordinary dutie s and activities of an ambulance member was at the presentation of the Life Saving Medal of the Order to another member of his division. Prince William wa s on parade with the rest; reporters were rushing around, flash-bulbs were going off right and left , and none of the press discovered that a member of the Royal Family was on parade 'in the ranks'!
Prince William resigned from the Di vision on leaving school in April 1960, having taken a further re-examination and gained his Medallion. Though , in view of his wide range of other interests and activities, his number of attendances and duty-hours was relatively small, it was sufficient to qualify him to be signed up on his B.F.4 card for Brigade 'Efficiency' for the year 1959, with 29 hours'
LONG WALK David Roberts , divisional officer of N ottinghamshire 's West Bridgford Ambulance Cadet Division, set off recently on a sponsored walk from John O'Groats to Lands End - that's from the top north-east comer of Britain to the bottom south-west comer, of course.
But having completed 471 miles of the walk in eleven days David was dogged by a March fracture to his left foot and had to retire as he approached Lancaster. He's recovering from the injury and, together with the organisers of the event, would like to thank all counties who offered and were able to give help along the route. The response for accommodation and meals at t he variou s stages of the marathon from SJA was apparently marvellous
A Dudl ey district nurse, Mrs. F. M. Pinches , who is the nursing officer to the Old Hill Nursing Cadet Division, Worcestershire, rescued a three month old baby girl from a smoke filled house at Wordsley, Dudley, I hear.
While at the home of one of her patients , Mrs. Pinches was interrupted by a small boy who asked for help. Going outside she saw smoke pouring from the windows of the house next door a nd heard the cries of a child from inside the house.
Asking the mother exactly where the child could be found and giving
A new SJA ambulance was dedi ca ted by the Vener a ble R B. Cole , Archdeacon of Lei ceste r at the Brigade's Lei ces ter H ea dquarter s recen tly. The cost of the vehi c le was rai se d entirely by voluntary co ntribution s and Viscount Kemsley , chairman of the St. John Council for Leicestershire
(Right) Mr. L Lee, County Commander, accepts the ambulance from the subscribers' representative , Miss A. Robinson , of Roth ley.
(Below) The youngest and oldest contributor to Leicester' s new ambulance-Mrs A. M. Housten, 86, and Louise Cullinan, 2Y:., Mr Lee' s grand -d aughter (Photo: P. W Jackson)
instructions for an ambulance to be called, Mrs. Pinches wrapped a wet cloth round her head and went into the house. She brought the crying child out to safety. Two other children who had been in the house when the fire started, were taken to hospital suffering from the effects of smoke and minor bums but were not detained.
Well
An interesting exercise by the SJA N ovocastrian Division (Northum berland) and the 3rd Tyne Sea Scouts, arranged by the Divisional President, P. Denham Christie, was held 400ft above sea-level in the Cheviots, north of Harbottle, Northumberland, during November.
The advance party, together with casualities, set off at 2 p.m. in a howling gale and drizzle for an uphill climb of about a mile to a lake in the hills, where the patients were briefed and eventually treated by the Brigade party.
Another party with inflatable boats, complete with equipment including a Neil Robertson stretcher and Furley pattern stretcher, set off 10 minutes later to take up a position on the 0pposite side of the lake. Under very trying conditions the boats were inflated and launched into choppy waters The casualities at this stage, ready for shipment, were lying in the most sheltered position among the rocks. Contact between the parties was by walkie-talkie radio and proved very successful. The boat made the crossing and the first patient, suffering from a
and Rutland , expressed the thanks of the Brigade for the generosity of their many supporters. 'At a time when more and more calls are being made on the Brigade, it is essential to provide them with instruments worthy of the wonderful work they do', sai d Lord Kern sley
fractured pelvis, was encased firmly in the Neil Robertson and transhipped The next patient, treated for an adder bite , which is very common in th i s area, made another rough crossing. A Furley stretcher was requested for the third patient, who suffered a fractured leg and the last crossing was made. Novocastrian members made the very wet and unpleasant crossing twice.
The exercise lasted about 2 hours which, considering the conditions, was good tim e. Th e equipment was dismantled and the entire party set off on the down hill trek in glorious au tumn sunshine, to every ones surprise.
After a hot meal at Rothbury the parties arrived back in Newcastle tired but having thoroughly enj oyed the exercise.
Miss 1. S. Burley, ASO London District Northern Area (Cadets), sent me this photograph of Janet Deakin, a blind cadet she first met when examining a
Some but not all as he sti ll atte nds meetings and lectures and readily assists where the benefit of his wide experience is required
John took his fir s t examination in 1935 and since h as qualified a nnu all y.
During the depre ss ion of the thirti es h e was often out of work bu t continued with St. John , helping to man the ambulance station - the only one in the town. When working by day John Grice would take his turn to be 'on ca ll at night. During World War II he served with the loc al Civil Defenc e and experienced some 96 air-raids. The four depot s at which he served were all damaged by bombs.
In 1951 John took up full time hospital work [t was in 1955 that his sight began to fail, but he carried on with his practical duties until he bec am e totally blind some 10 years ago. Little wonder that John Grice is held in high esteem by his colleagues. By everyone.
Janet Deakin plenty of
group of girls in the Essentials of First Aid at Chorley Wood School for blind girls. All the training for the examination had been carried out by Janet, who had transcribed the Essentials into Braille for them. Earlier Janet , who is now studying physiotherapy, had been a member of Wheatwood Division, Sheffield. She is still helping the blind cadets at Chorley Wood; at present she is transcribing the latest home nursing book for them and plans to visit the school at weekends to give training in home nursing.
There's spirit for you.
Corporal John Grice, of Lowestoft Ambulance Division, made a Se r ving Brother of the Order l ast month, joined the Division 37 years ago and carried out his duties regularly until total blindness forced him to drop some of his activities
10
I hear a carefully kept secret was revealed to Miss M. J. Freer, County Staff O ff icer,
when she attended an area inspection at Leicester Brigade Headquarters recently.
Arrangements had beeN made to presen t he r with a cheque contributed by Brigade and SJ Council members to mark her retirement as county secretary, a position she has held since 1957.
The presentation wa s made by Lord Kemsley, chairman of the St. John Council , who paid a warm tribute to Miss Freer's outstanding serv ice, not only as county secretary but as an officer of the Brigade since she joined Vaughan College Nursing Division in 1934 , where she was appointed divisional officer in 1941 and superintendent in 1948. Miss Freer was promoted to corps superintendent in 1955 and area superintendent in 1958.
Admitted to the Order as a Serving Sister in 1951 she wa s made an Officer of th e Order in 1951 and promoted Commander Sister in 1962.
NURSES SUMMER SCHOOLS
A brochur e giving details of summer schools for future nurs es, courses designed for young people aged 14-19 years who are interested in nursing is available from the Nurses' Christian Fellowship , 17 Middle Lane , Epsom, Surrey.
RAD 10 APPEAL
On Janu ary 24 at 7.25 p.m. on BBC R adio 4 Cliff Michelmore will make an appeal on behalf of the British Council for Aid to Refugees.
THE BAND PLAYED ON
I liked the story of events before the recent enrolment cere m ony of London District's (C23) Mile End Cadet Division held at a loc al sc hool. As a curtain-raiser for the evening, the band of Southwark (C130) Cadet Division was to suppl y the music The band under Divisional Superintendent W. H. Cuff , arrived nice and early, as is right and proper, a nd were allocated a classroom for changing and preparation. Bu when the time came for
SURPRISE) (Photo: P W. Jackson)
ot1ue band to make its entry, the music-makers couldn't get out of the classroom! The se lf-lock i ng door had closed and locked them in. And no-one outside knew where the key was!
After chasing around looking for screw -drivers, anything to try to open tha t xxxxxxxxx door , it was d ecided that it would be quicker to climb out through the windows co mplete with instruments. And so the show went on.
Mil e End superintendent, who sportingly told me the story, ad d ed: 'Good job they were on the ground floor'.
Could only happen in Cockney-land.
I hear that of an estimated c rowd of 4,000 only one child had to be treated for a minor burn on his finger. That was the safety record at one of the biggest bonfires in Hartlepool on Nov. 5 - the St. John Am bulance bonfire and firework display on Seaton beach.
The di splay proved that l ocal parents and children have listened to the warnings to 'take care'.
That was the fee ling of the organizers , who had aimed to mak e Guy Fawkes night a safe even ing
The bonfire was set alight by Mrs. Marjorie Taylor , a nursing member of SIA, who last year organized the first 'safe' bonfire on Seaton Carew b e ach.
This y ea r's bonfire was gigantic. Industries in the town came forward to help out the organizers by sending lorry load s of timber, log s, tree ends, and wood
The bonfire took two days to build and provided a blazing spectacle for parents and chil dren who gathered to watch.
Flames leapt high into the sky and r ockets and coloured firework s soared out towards the se a, as people handed over their fireworks to SJA members to let off.
The scene on the beach was perhaps the most colourful in the area - and the roar of the flames muffled the sounds of the waves breaking on the sand.
Mr. George Elliston, who was in charge
of the bonfire and display , said: ' We must either do this - have organized bonfires or ban celebrating November 5 altogether. You cannot let chil dren have fireworks. They are dangerou s and can either kill or maim_ This is a solu tio n to what has b eco me a dangerous night. We ca n do this But quite honestly what I would like to see happen wo uld be for the council to take over and organize fixed point bonfires - with set -pi ece firework displa y That way there would be no danger of flying fireworks, and it would eliminate the back yard fi r es which ge t out of control'.
IJt
...
DO CADETS readily believe the history of the Order? One would hope so, if only because it is history Can we then safely let the story unfold itself, or is there a snag?
Overheard from a young AIM: 'History of the Order! Ha, a load of fairy tales!' Again, nursing cadets were listeNing to the "beginning of the dragon story; at the word 'dragem' a bright girl immediately objected: 'That can't be true - there's no such animal.' These are two genuine experiences.
Do such remarks mean anything? Admittedly, one or two swallows don't make a summer, but there might be more douMers who don't speak up. We might try to imagine Cliny obvi()JUs men t al 1910cks in the young mind and study how to ease them. Maybe we can organise our visual aids, exhibits or whateve F we individually put into the course, specifically to overcome these obstacles.
One difficulty may be the thought; 'I've learnt history, but this Order business is something extra, so it can't be genume.' To anticipate this, one might emphasise at the outset that the total amount of world llist@ry is enormous; it's to it all And most foreIgn hIStOry Isn't taught 1.0. schoolstime doesn't permit it.
12
A more serious difficulty may be the modern craze for debunking everythingthough not quite everything; seemingly you can stuff youngsters with any stodge abont battling rocketeers covering many light-years in a night, and then always home again in time for sunshine breakfast. But, please, no dragons!
In trying to meet as many snags as I could imagine in teaching St. John history, I have felt it useful to collect as much evidence as possible from au tside the circles of St. John to add to the excellent material we have inside. This ou tside material consists chiefly of
holiday pamphlets and news cuttings which are passed around the class. Holiday folders of Cyprus , Rhodes and Malta mention the knights as well as the scenery, for the Order features well in the local history, especially in that of Malta. For the sake of detail I also show a folder of Amalfi - pointing out the little white cross that is still preserved in one corner of the town's present-day badge, and from which, of course, the Order originally adopted its white cross.
The news clippings I have are few but useful, and there must be many other news-mentions of St. John history that I have not seen. For instance, r came across a holiday advertisement of a Malta hotel showing a figure in armour with the white cross on a shield - which is a useful illustration.
®f the Order of St. John of Jerusa iem fwrn the Holy Land, and cultivated at their hospices for the pliecious saffron The 'wild' autumn crocus is therefore confined roughly to a certain broad area within which the Knights of St. John had their houses. The northern limit of this area is said to be near Halifax, where certain hillsides are thick with autumn crocuses, but the clump we knew in Nidderdale was farther north, and at the Hall in Ribston, a little village, across the fields, was a chapel dedicated to the Knights of St. John
Another newspaper cutting provided a sequel to this (London Evening News, November 23 1964). Headlined: 'Crocus Drug' Move to Help Rheumatics, the story was about research to begin at Stoke Mandeville Hospital to study the working of the drug colchincine, used against gout for centuries, in the hope of applying it to other rheumatic diseases.
One more point about the meadow saffron. I lived in London for many years and the street name Saffron Hill was quite known to me ; at the time I thought nothing of it. But coming across this street just near St. John's Gate again a year or two ago 1 saw the name with wide-open eyes. If all establ shments of St. John had plantations of saffron, surely the Great Priory of Clerkenwell would have been no exception! I always mention Saffron Hill to cadets. Evidence does surround us.
A 'mental block' that should be considere d arises from the fact that modern life is so utterly unlike that of the Middle Ages, or even the beginning of the present century , and it is difficult to keep the differences constantly in mind. To the young and inexperienced this must be quite an obstacle to trying to understand history.
For instance, take the story that in its wealthiest years patients meals at the Hospital in Malta were served on silver dishes. A tall one, it would seem, yet a little explanation eases it. In those days there were no banks or mass-produced crockery ; so any gifts , or Mediterranean plunder were stuffed into the old oak chest until the Knights needed to sell them. The (to us) startling thing the brethren did was to give these valuables an airing in the service of our lords the sick ' One wonders how much they trusted 'our lords' with these valuables
Illustrations by E. J. Baker
still had hand-to-hand fighting to face . Without making too much of this, listeners can be given an attempt at a logical appreciation rather than mere marvelling, and tremendous credit still goes to the Knights.
In reading and telling history another disadvantage is the necessary condensation. Even the best histories, however skillfully written, must often miss a little of the drama of the real scene. An eyewitness accou nt as if by a newspaper reporter·, would benefit the story. Fortunately we have at least one such account quoted by Sir Edwin King.
I like to read a passage aloud from his book The Knights of St. John in the British Empire, page 23, which ends:
'A t last the enemy began to close in, and an eye-witness states that 'they had laid their bows aside and were now thundering upon the rearguard with their scimitars and maces like smiths upon anvils'. It was more than human nature could endure ; two of the Knights, losing their heads forced their way through the infantry, and flung themselves upon the Saracens.
At once the whole of the Knights of the Hospital, as if it had been the SIgnal, wheeled their horses to the left, raised a shout of 'St George!' and First aid
bursting through their foot charged home. Fortunately the decisive moment for which King Richard was waiting had arrived, the trumpets sounded the charge all along the line and the cavalry passing through the marching columns dashed upon the infidels. The Saracen and Turkish light horse were too closely engaged to be able to break away , and when the Christian warriors had finished their work, seven thousand Df the enemy lay dead upon the field.'
I don't think any cadet can fail to appreciate the tremendous 'punishment' which the Knights of St. John had to take , under dis cipline (although, of course, on occasions this broke) until their moment came, nor fail to hear in their minds the unholy clatter contained in this word-picture.
Let's turn now from full drama to myth , or semi-myth. Here one inclines to be 'devil's advocate', or , in space-age language, if you can't beat 'em , joi n 'em. Not that there is anything in the history to treat lightly.
First the dragon ; 1 wouldn't jib at him overmuch. His breath is not guaranteed fiery. Some of his customers did observe him closely, but lost the opportunity to describe him. The wise kept alive and ignorant. There was probably a craze for calling any fearsome animal a dragon. And the history does
R.xkf 7hJs to lire Mao" -oK but I r..Jo',,/ I nilS.
Another news ex1l;act is quite a collector's piece. Of all places the Order was mentioned in the middle of a gard ening article. (The Guardian, July 29, 1961). The subject of the piece was the meadow saffron, otherwise the autumn crocus or colchicum. After giving a description of the plant, varleties, habits, soil preferred, etc, the writer reminisced: 'I have discovered that the meadow saffron is not a native of Great Britain but was brought here by the Knights
The battle odds against the Knights sometimes represent them as more than supermen. We must acknowledge their heroism and tenacity, but when giving out actual figures I prefer to remark that a brave defending force could often keep a la Fger 8J ttacking foroe at bay because of the fortifications. When the attackers did breach the fortifications they poured through the bottleneck , the target of snipers while the attackers who survived
give us a get-ou t: there was a carved gateway or gargoyle of a dragon, and fiction may have given us the rest . True or not , it usefully illustrates the Order's discipline.
The vision? Another worthy story, and I can't bring any superior grins to it.
Apparently Turkish prisoners did report having seen something (as often happened before and since) to make them flee.
Fierce, tough, deadly fighters though the Turks are reputed to have been, this army just melted at the sight of what? I like to leave the vision story like that - in the air.
The prisoners are said to have seen a vision of St. Mary an d St. John the Baptist at the head of a vast new army. They were rabid moslems; _ with a knowledge of Christain saints - even to
identifying them? A pGssible tiheory is that the knights, who were only hum a n after all and acute ly excited by victory and the long-deserved relief after an exhausting siege, may have asked the prisoners eading questions. Could they be blamed if they did ask such questions?
And could the prisoners be blamed for trying to humour their captors?
I believe (not alone, I feel) that the news cuttings and the holiday folders I have briefly mentioned do tend to demonstrate to younsters that the story of the Order far from being an isolated batch of tales known only in the Brigade , is a very rea l and integral part of the world in which we live. Those 'o ut side' titbits of evidence may enhance the value of the purely St. John exhibits we can use for example, St. John Christmas have provided interesting co lour
A FEW OF THE WIDE SELECTION ON THE MARKET NOWADAYS
N. Hanlon (Ireland) Ltd., Dublin Road, Longford, Dublin.
A company responsible for many of the ambulances operated by the Irish hospitals boards, Hanlon's build Mark II bodies for Ford Transit 25 cwt chassis (ll8in wheelbase) (right in photograph), and for Bedford 35 cwt chassis, twin rear wheels (126in wheelbase). These vehicles comply with the British Working Party's report on ambulance design.
pictures of i:he Gai:enol1se and the Church crypt (though a tis betrter) and an impressive view of the new hospital building.
This last connects with another cu tting (The Guardian, May 6 1965) - '£ IM Appeal to Fight Trachoma.' Here we read the staggering information that t rac homa affects one-fifth of the world 's po p ulation. By my arithmetic this comes to 6 00 millions out of 3,000 millions All these in risk of bl i ndness?
Surely this modern battle which the Order is waging in the service of mankind, and is determined to win, would appeal to the ancient knights and devout brethren, if th e y could b e awakened to hear the story! Or would this new miracle, with its astronomical figures, seem to them too tall a story? Don't say we d have to convince them tool
Strachans Ltd., Hamble Lane, Southampton S03 5NO
St rachans' Pacemaker welfare bus (Above and below) is a modified version of their standard Pacemaker mod el. Mounted on a Ford chassis it can seat 16 with standar d seating, or provide any co mb n atio n of wheelchair accommodation and stan dard seating.
In a ddition to entra nc e via steps at the front of th e bus, a hydraulic lift can be incorporated at the rear - for wheelchairs or otherwise incapacitated to board safely and easily. Headroom is 6 ft 1 in , ann the interior design allows plenty of space for movement.
A l arger model , the P aceri de r, mounted on a B edford V AS chassis , is also built.
The cost of the standard 16-seater vehicle is £ 1,720 and 'welfare' versions, complete with the pow er lift, cost from £2,080.
Locomotors Ltd., 520 London Road, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 4YO
This sp ecial ambulance/mini bus (right) was built for the Dunoran Home for severely disabled young people at Bickley ) Kent. The vehicle is based on a CF Bedford van, and incorporates a folding electro-hydraulic tail-lift to facilitate entry. Seating is basically for five, with four additional tip-up seats. Alternatively ) all the seats can be eas ily removed and four wheelchairs carried.
Smith-Appleyard Ltd., Team Valley, Gateshead NEB 1YT
(Righ t ) SmithAppleyard glass -fibre ambulance on the Bedford C. F chassis.
(Right) Interior of the SmithAppleyard C.F. ambulance showing rn odel 409M cot fitted on each side, with floor accommodation for a centrally positioned cot if required
Also featured on these ambulances is the company's own stretcher equipment, whtich has been designed to make full use of all the available space.
Ano rt her purpose-built Hanlon ambulance is mounted on a Landrover 109in wheelbase chassis, which has double rear doors.
Wadham-Stringer Ltd., Hambledon Road, Waterloovile, Hants.
(Photo: left)
Pioneers in the development of the modern a mbulan ce, both in the field of equipment and the complete GRP body , some of thi s co mpany's vehicle s, built between 1958 and 60, are still in oper a tional use. But 1970 brought to an end the popular 'LD' chassis and the company has now turned to the new British Leyland 'EA' chassis as a general purpose ambulance, and the Leyland FG 6 -cylinder chassis for the front-line emerg e n c y ambulance These models are
available for demonstration , the latter complying with the Working Party Specification type 1 and 2. Bodies are also available on the Ford Transit and Bedford CF chassis, both as van conversions and custom-built vehicles.
Their atest product is the 3-litre Unit/Transfer ambulance built on to the Austin 3-li tre car with its 100 mph power unit and hydrolastic suspension, designed for rapid, comfortable journeys for a sing le patien t.
from N. R. TumbiIl, Chairman, Basingstoke SJA
The letter from Mr. Pilkington (October Review) asks for a reply from me
Firstly I must apologise for a mistake in my letter in the June issue. Under new regulations the Service Medal of the Order may not now be awarded to members of the public not connected with the Order. I had referred to an out-of-date copy of the Statutes and Regulations of the Order (I948), Statute 54, Regulation 54a, in which the old rule applied.
Otherwise the facts are that the Service Medal of the Order is not , and never has been, 'the Brigade Long-Service Meclal
The rules governing this awaIid are printed for all to see in the Statutes and Regulations of the Order, Statute 5 1.
This show quite clearly to whom the medal may be awarded (the operative word is 'may'), and what service is necessary to be recommended for this award. It is NOT automatic.
It is not necessary to have this medal before admission to the Order. That is quite another matter. As for the ide a of the m e dal being \:heap and nasty' I find this quite contemptible. Anyone who values an award for the intrinsic v alue of its metal do es not deserve to have it! May I remind readers that the highest award of all, the Victoria Cross, is made of gun-metal.
Basingstoke N. R Turnbull
from Stephen G. Rogers, Cadet Leader
It was with interest that I read of the increase in price of the Review and am entirely in sympathy with you. I have , however, some suggestions to aCGompany this increase in price of the magazine I know 'most of us really want'.
reading ME Jacobs' letter on the first aid manual, it brought me to thinking that the cadet manual is no better! Many ambulance and nursing cadets and people outside SJA have difficulty in reading and understanding it. Preliminary first aid, basic first aid and even of first aid have merely improved the first aid, not the layout and language presentation to the reader.
I therefore suggest that the Review could help in this matter (as does a similaFiy-priced monthly magazine, The Scouter, 2/-, lOW) and print, with the u sual articles and interest, a MODERN, WELL PRESENTED, READABLE and PRACTICAL 'pull-out' of a few pages entitled say, simply 'Training Programme'. It could include programmes for various meetings: first aid theory and practical work, proficiencies, camping, etc.
I am sure that this would be a success, and if Scouts can benefit from such (as our local troops do) - why shouldn't St. John! Hockley, Essex. Stephen G. Rogers
from H. Downey, Corporal SJA
May I congratulate you on the October issue, both letters and articles reached a new high.
I flote with interest a letter from F. Hugo Stuttaford about a couple from Horsham, Sussex, who have been running a regional stores for about 10 years What does E. 1. Baker say about that? True, as he says, there woulcl be administrative and regulation difficulties, but the thing has been done! Again a nation-wide ne work of retail stores (advertised in October's issue) have opened departments for the sale of SJ A nurses uniform s, equipment and publications. If they can do that for the nurses, why flot a department for St. John's men? I am sure it would pay. As I said in my previous letter, personal service would promote sales.
Bradford H. Downey
CRI DE JERSEY (ENCQRE)
from Peter Monamy
As you 'say, 'Not very good news' , (November issue): the Review up to 2/4d. It's a great shame and all that but I suppose it had to come!
audience , and the other two among the unsuspecting spectators, !including a judge for eac h
There was a telephone IDOX from which me ssages could be if:ta nsm itted, aiso an ambulance wit ih clanging bell and normal professional pe liso nnel , if called for.
I would like to endorse your comment My. Editor on Divisional Superint endent Philip E. Wray's letter: The essence of m arriage begins af t er the cerem ony'.
The 'marriage' works very well in Croydon, because the divisions of the Brigad e recognise their du al responsibility as branches of the Association, and as such are repres e n ted on the Centre Committee, as organisers of classes for the general public, which brings them into dir ect co nt act with most local organisa tions.
Because of this connection I cannot agree that recruitment to adult divisions can only com e from the cadet di visio n s of the SJA, altho ugh thi s of course is very de sirable.
amount of help and hindrance from outsiders. Two or three bystanders part of the officia l setting, ca n be properly briefed for this but I do not think an a ud ie n ce can. At the start of the competitions , it would be shy and d iffi d en t ; as successive teams come in, it would become progressively more confident and noisy, particularly if there were one or two bright lad s and las sies amongst it. By the time the 10th team had put in it s appearance, it would be thoroughly enjoying itself. The judge can penalise ea ms for poor competition technique ; he would now have to be prepared to credit them with 'audience dang er marks'!
from Miss K. D. Wilson Divisional Officer
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations. Although readers may sign published letters with a pen-name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
I agree , we DO want a good, lively magazine - and it IS becoming one. It is vital, of course, that all subscribers support the Review to enable it to achieve its aim.- I, for one, have ordered my next years supply!
Now , 'Cri de J ersey'. Where are a ll the letters then? Can it be that there are no other subscribers to the R eview in the C hann el Islands but myself? I hope not! I can only repeat my August plea of: COME ON JERSEY!!
In reply to My. Jacobs' (November) letter , FIRST AID MANUAL, I for one (are there others?) entire ly agree with him: 'It contains too many mistakes and is badly compiled'.
Is it not supposed to be allied with the R ed Cross and St. Andrew's Ambulance Association? Yet in our manual it clearly states that blisters MUST NOT be broken , while in the Red Cross book, a sterile needle point (one) passed through a flame ma y be used.
Our manual therefore, will have su ch un fortunates as amateur road walkers (who we are called on to assist from time to time) strutting gingerly on immense and painful blisters; while we pile on the foot powder and corse pla sters! Surely , if cadets can be trained to administer mouth to mouth resuscitation and external cardiac compression, they can be relied on to wield a sterlise d pin! Often adult members can be more ham fisted than cadets and even they are not considered capable to relieve a suffering road walker!
Enough's enough! I'll let you sought that lot out. Good luck My. Editor
Keep up the good wo rk. Jersey, C. I. P eter Monamy
COMPS: WEDDED
from Mrs. E. B. Winifred Dane, Divisional President
The November issue of the R eview provides much interesting material for comment and discu ssion.
First, there is the amusing artide by F. G. Thomas , Assistant Director , Association which so aptly d escribes my own experiences at first aid competitions, and national.
In re ply to liltS query "Is a new a pproach needed?" I can only refer him to this year s open competition of the Croydon Centre of the SJA where he would have see n just what h e requires.
There were three casualties: one in the centre of a three sided
I think Mr. Wray is too mode s t to call himself a junior with 14 years service, but join him in his wi sh that the SJA may 'move forward as the best and most up-to -date organisation' and beyond the limit of 50 year s.
Now, how do I sign off! I am an ordinary member of the Croydon Centre an d President of 107 (Shirley) N. Division, therefore 'wedded' to both sections.
Cro y don E. B. Winifred Dan e
COMPETITIONS
from Dr. E. Lewis Butler
In the Nov e mber 1970 Review F. G. Thomas writes a most amusing artic le on competitions. In considering a new approach , h e s ugg ests bri nging the a udi e n ce into participation.
I myself , at varying times, had wondered abo ut this because an audience, however responsive , must become somew h a t tired and bored with hearing nothing , seeing little and understanding ess; but I discarded the idea because all the te (. ms must have the same
Reading Miss Pfi s ter' s talk on this subject I agree with so much of what she says, and I a s an SRN (and when I was an SEN and senior stu d ent) was always pleased to h ave h e lp on the wards from SJA member s with nursing certificates. But , as divisional officer I can see the point of the officer at the NHSR meeting who said: es t. John is fo r the road'. Although I would not express it quite like that, it is very difficult to do so many things In our town we have a f ull programme of public duti es and sometimes have di fficulty covering them - with only 8 women and 16 men, including officers and NCOs - let alone going into hospital or into comm u nity with the di str ict nurse. Briti sh Red Cross do go into hospital here, but they do no public duties. So, as mu ch as I would like to have our members going to help in hospital, I hesitate to approach matron , as it would be almost impossible for them to attend regularly.
Better not to start than to go sporadically; that would only give us a bad name. Do other divisions have the same views and problems? Most of us have other interests too , and family commitments
Working ton
LEICS : Ex - cadet and former member Hin ck ey N u r sin g D vis ion now nursing in t he RAF, Jill Flemming becomes Mrs. E. J. Mayne;
DENNY was one of the seven baronies owned by the Order of St. John in Scotland until 1564 when Mary Queen of Scots got 10,000 crowns of the sun (an Scottish coin) in cash and 500 marks pe l' year rent for it from Sir James Sandilands, Lord S t. John (the last Preceptor of Torphichen until the revival of the Priory of Scotland in 1947). The Queen made Sandilands Lmd Torphichen and gave him a royal charter of all the lands - which formed good title deeds so that he and his successm were able to sell most of the lands to repay the loan he raised to pay the 10,000 crowns to the Queen
In Scotland , baronies were the possessions of the minor barons who were the freeholders of land asses se d at 40/- or more of 'Old Extent', being the assessments fixed in the reign of Alexander III (1249-1286) These minor barons later elected two commissioners of each shire to serve in the £states, as the Scottish P arlia ment was called. Minor barons had the right to hold a court in their own territory until the abolition of heritable jurisdictions in 1747 , when compensation was paid. The barons appointed a baillie to run a court, and Lord Torphichen gave a Commission of the Bailliary of Denny to Lmd Fleming in 1585.
The barony of Denny was of considerable extent but there is no known record of its boundaries The land was a Templar property and came to the Order of St . John when the Pope suppressed th e T e mplars and ordered that their properties be handed over to the Order of St John in 1312
The 'Abstract of th e Charters and other papers recorded in the Chartulary of To:rphichen from 1581 to 1596 has a number of references to properties which comprised part of the barony of Denny. The main properties in the modern town of Denny are shown on the plan of the town. Beside the Castlerankine Burn the hatched area is the farm of West Boreland as shown on the ordnance survey map of 1899 but the area may have heen larger and extended so uth of D uke Street.
Today West Bor e land R oad runs north through the property and Temple D enny Road running parallel to Duke Street, certainly comm em ora tes Templar 18
property and may have b een part of West Boreland. To the south of Broad Stree t in 1899 was East Boreland farm (hatched), which was also mentioned in the Chartulary of Torphichen in 1588. South of the railway is Cuth elton, which was another property mentioned in the Chartulary in 159 2; and Cuthelton Greens to the we st of the motorway a nd outside the town is also m e ntion ed. There is a charter dated 1597 of the property called Hillhouse D enny in favour of Andrew Johnston. The writer has cONfirmed from Mr. T. Bryson the present owner of Hol e house , called on the ordnance maps HaUhouse , that he inherited the farm be ca u se his grandmother was a Johnston, and h er father is buried in the orchard; so that there will be a Johnston in the property
Mr. M LLEWELLYN, chairm an of the council of the S t. John Ambulance Brigade, West Glamorgan District, makes a presentation to Mr. H. C. L. Hav ar d , who recently retired as the West Glamorgan Di strict Commissioner. Mr. Havard has be e n a memb er of the Brigade since 1922. The presentation took place at Swansea. Included in the picture with Mr and Mrs. Havard are:
for all tim e. His title deeds go back to Lord Torphichen in the sixteenth century, so that this property was definit ely part of the barony of Denny. Most of the town of Denny south of the River Carron seems to have belonged to the Order of St John Oth e r properties (not shown on map ) which were includ ed in the old barony of Denny a nd belonged to the Order of St. John are Garvald (two miles wes t of Denny church), Myothill , Wester Mailings, Garth and Gar th Mill , all about 1% to 2 miles west south west of D e nny c hurch. There is also a reference to Burnside , which is about a mile west of Myothil!. The lands of Denny paid the Pr eceptor of Torphichen yearly nine dozen poultry as well as the rents in cash. J. H Ca ld er McC Jeo d
Lieut enant -Colone l John Treharne and Mrs. Treharne, principal secretary and Chief Commissioner for Wales ; Dr. Linsay Morgan, the newl y appointed co mmi ssioner; Mis s Mair Davies , district superin t endent, nursing division ; Mr. C . L. Pow ell, deputy commissioner; Mrs. Methuen Camp bell, l ady president of the area council; and Miss D. Davies , district nursing officer.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
SJA in s tructor Mrs. V. J. Harr arway, who was on a vi sit to Britam recen tty, with a fir s t aid p assi ng-out class of volunteer firemen and Royal Canadian Mounted Po lice. Mr s. Harrarway who oined t he Brigade in 1939 and is now an A ssoc iation in st ru c tor , lives on Salt Spring Isl and, one of a group of sma ll islands off the so uth- east coast of Vancouver Island. On th ese isla nd s the fire and ambulance services are run by volun teer s on a rota b as is, wi th an annual su bscr iption from residents for equipment, organised by the Lion s Club. Looking after f ir st -aid tra ining on th e isl ands, Mr s. Harr arway says of her pupils: 'If you ever saw them in action you would never wonder why 1 am su ch a keen in st ru cto r
The following letter is by an ex-cadet from British Columbia to her Superinte ndent after visiting Europe:
'1 spe nt my vacation overseas thi s year.
'London didn't impr ess m e very much, actually 1 was afraid of my own sh ad ow, every day you wou ld read of a murder in the district.
I only spent a wee k all together in London
'1 had the pleasure of m ee ting two of my pen pal s One liv ed in a small village near BI.ackpool; we have a lot in co mm on She spoke with a heavy Lancashire accent. It was two days before 1 was u se d to it.
'Blackpool wa sn 't quite as 1 had pi c tured it, bu t It does have beautiful beaches, and one of the be st amusement parks.
'1 took a seven -day to ur of Scotland, mainly 111 the Highland s. The hotels were the mo st fascinating part of the tour you never kn ew what the next one would be like. Some had giganhc bed s WitJl f eather mattre sses, othe r s were ibare ly soft. One hotel lo c ked the f ront doo r at 11 p.m. On trip, one of th e stop s was on ly a few miles fro m my l>O U Sll1; whom I had never met and only wrote to ?nce. It was very interes ting meeting them. My other pen-pal liv ed in Farnham an hour by train from London. 1 soent a day'with her
and visited her St. John building; thing s are very different over tllere.
' I went t o three liv e plays: Fiddler on the Roof was much bett er than 1 thought it would be.
' 1 spent a week on t h e Island of Majorca , off the coas t of Spain. This is the prettiest place I have ever see n. The people went ou of their way to be kind. It was warm and I got a gorgeous tan. The hotel had a sw imming pool where I spent siesta every afternoon. The co lours there were alive ; the ocean was a sparkling blue ; the flowers were all bright co lour s.
I was to spend m y last week in London bu my cousin in sisted I stay at their place and 1 was ve ry glad of their offer. The noi se of the city , after being on an island , wa s too much.
I went through St. John' s Gate, It has so mu ch more in it than I had eve r read about There are pieces of furniture from the Knight s occupation of Malta , given to tJle British Order by descendants who bought the m when the Knights left. There is a magnificen t collectio n of go ld and silver objects as well as some ewellery belonging to the Knight s From one wi nd ow you can see St. Pauls Cathedral. In ear y time s his was outside of the city, then the Gate of the walled city of
London. Four other gate s are still standing. In another section are all the uniforms of St. John and th e bishops robes used for the St. John's Day Service , alo ng w ith all th e m edals ever issued by any branch of St. J ohn. I wish I had been ab le to take pictures inside our knowledge of the Order does not do ju stice to the Gate.
'I had the opportunity of attending the St. John Co mm erative Service at St. Pauls Cathedral Almost eve r y country where St. John in one fornl or another is active, was represented. I was not aware of the many different types of robes that were worn. They were a ll black but eac h country had its own di stinction. The Queen's trumpeters sounded th e arrival of the procession. I was so overcome by the pagentry tllat I found it hard to concentrate on tJle service.
'It will be a while before I will forget this trip I am glad 1 hav e m y slid es to remind me '.
Miss Wmnie Moir, CS tJ ., Lady District Superintendent an d Brigade Secretary, Witwatersrand and Soutllern Transvaal District, died on Jun e 11 1970. She joined St. J ohn in 1934, enrolled with the 5th Johannesburg Nursing Division in 1940, and was promo ted Commander (Sister) in the Order in 1963
a n.
CHESHIRE- SJA Wilm so lw reali ed £150 for their building fund for their new headquarter at an aut umn fair re cen tly. The event wa s opened by tlle building fund chairman Mr. D Morri s The money co me s a an important tim e for th e br anch, be c au se they have been given permission by Ches hir e County Council to purchase land in W ilm sl ow for th e headquart ers.
DOREST -the Abel Smith Cup F .A. compet ition was won b y Park tone Ambulance Division 'A' w it h 326 point s. Th e team consisted o f Div. Supt. J Lew i s, A/M C. Gal e, Cpl. M Dicker and A / M P. Thomp so n. All t he e member s are ex-cadets. D iv. S up t. J L e wis a so won the c up for the high est individu al presented by Mi s Mooring Aldridg e.
GUERNSEy- It was a great day for SJA h er e at the e nd of Nov emb er when memb e r s of the Northern Ambulan ce a nd Nur s ing Divi ion s m et round dining tab es at a St. Martin' s hote l to ce lebrat e 30 years of se rvi ce to thi s is and c ommunity.
Div isional Superintendent R eg inald Rihoy spoke of th e North e rn Divi sion s' unique distinction of b e ing th e only S 1. John organisa tion to be born during the time s of the great est s tre ss in t he is and's hi st ory - when Gu e rnsey was occupied by th e Germans. 'A t th e end of 3 0 years' servi ce in St. John in Guern sey we can look ba ck w ith prid e a nd deep sat sfac t ion in the knowl e dg e that our wo North e rn Divi sion s hold th e uniqu e di stin c tio n of b e ing th e only two Divi sion s in St. John th e world over to hav e been fo rmed und er German occupation'
At tlle in stig a tion of Mr. To mmy Roffey President of th e Northern Ambulanc e Divi s ion, and seconded by Mr. Hugh Sau n der s, the nin e founder-m e mber s p resen t e njoyed a spec ial toa s of t h eir own, duly hono ure d by the a sse mbl e d company o f 120 din ers. Mr. V ernor Lu ff then called and Jurat W. B Fox pr ese nte d b ar s to th e ir se rvice m e dal s to: Third bars (30 years' se rvice) Bailiwic k St aff Offi ce r CharLe3 Froome and Divi sio n al Supt. Reginald L. Rihoy ; Seco nd Bar s (25 years' se rvi ce ) Div. Officer Arthur T. L e Page, Sergeant L A. Robert and Co rpor a R. Robert. Torquay nur sin g cadets with gifts mad e for the Opthalmic Ho spita Jeru sa em (Photo: T. G. Woodm an)
HAMPSHI RE- t h e co un ty's fir st r esidenti al t iJiaining week- end arranged by the area staff offi cers for ambulance and nu rsi ng ca "ts was held at Wi !l1c he ster early Nov ember. It was attended by 80 member s o f all rank s. Lectures were given by Mr. Martin, General S ecre tary, Hampshire Co un c il of Social Servic es, on t he co-or di nation of all th e so c ial se rvice s; by the County Staff Offi cer (ca det s) on th e many c our ses available to St. John members; by the D e puty County Comm s ioner on the import a nce of coneet r esusc ta tion a nd cardiac m assage, and by Mr. Parry-Morri s on contro l of haemorrhage. The Area Training offi ce r in s truct e d th e adult and ca d e t m embers in casua lt y handling , including carrying s tretcher s. Th er e were also di sc u ssio n s on th e work of St. John in the future le d by the Area Commi ss oner.
LANCS -N el so n SJA m e mb e r s and friend s are pleased to hear of t he promotion of Mr s Mary Heap , of Nelson , to Ar ea St a ff Offi cer of Nur si ng Divi sion s Al so in th e new s i s Mr. Rob ert Sagar of Brie rfi e ld who joined the Brigad e in 19 L7; t hi s year Mr. S aga r received hi s seven th bar, th us compl et ing fifty yea r s servic e. My. S agar i s th e father of t he well -known ex-councillor Mr. P e t er Sagar of Ne lso n.
LON DON -O nly thr ee weeks after gaining a seco nd pla ce in London Dist ric t 's Eas t ern Area swimming gala, t he girls of Cl ayha ll Divi sion entered an d won th e Mit c ham Open Compet i tions (open that is to all London Di s tri c Cade t Divi sio n s). They were th e only Eas t ern Area Nu [sing Ca d e t team to en ter and succeede d in ca rr y in g off the 'E. C. Sumpter Cha lleng e Cup' for t h e w inn er s n th e team tes t. The t eam co nsiste d of Nur s ing Cadets Jan e t Walk er Rita Moon a nd Ann Ot tway, and Co rpor al Margare t Compton.
In the tw e lve month s sin ce th e Divi s on h as been entering co mp etition s, they have entered four, and have gained thr ee f ir place and o ne third Sur ely not a bad reco rd fo r th eir trai n er David Plumm e r , who is u perin te nd e nt of nea rby Becon tree Ambulance Cad e t Division.
NO RTH DE R BYSH IRE - The enro lment ceremony of th e co mbin e d di vision s of Markham Arkwright and Bolso ver ambulance an d nur sing cade s was co nduct e d re cen tly by Cou nty Nur sing Offi cer Mr s. And erson and Area Staff Offi cer Mr s K. M. St an iland and Area Staff Offi ce r Mr. J. T. Smith.
At the enrolm ent se rvi ce th e lesson was r ea d by Cad e t Mi ss D. Booth Gag p art ies were provided by Markham ambul an ce cade t s and Arkwright n ur sing ca det s.
STAFFORD-u nit s throughout Sta ffo rd shir e took part in a confer en ce organise d by th e Brig ad e at Stafford recent ly.
About 80 represent a ives w ere pr ese nt for t he day-long confere n ce ent itl ed So c ie t y s Need-How Can We Care?'
Th e prin cipal speaker wa s th e Chief N u r sing Offi cer, Dame Barbar a Cozen s. She sp ok e to member s on a variety of
She
18-year-old DIANE DAVIS tells us monthly about hell lifte as a
A STUDENT nurse's intermediate examinattions, practical and theoretical, usually corne halfway through training, at about the eighteenth month. But as the practical test has to be taken first and carried out on a patient of whom the student has a thorough knowledge, this test is often taken around completion of the first year, when she IS still on the wards and prior to commencing 2nd-year study block. I took my practical in November, my tenth month.
It was a blanket bath This was all I was told until the actual test, which was supervised by the sister of the next ward. On the day , an hour before the test, I was told which patient to bath. But these practical tests include much more than the specific job to be done; the student's general adaptability to nursing is also thoroughly checked - for instance, her knowledge of th e patient, both personal and m e dical. So this hour gave me time to c heck the patient's history (a young woman who had had tonsillectomy) , and make my preparations for the bath.
With a strange sister watching, I felt ra ther nervous as I started the bathing, which has to be don e per the book on such CLUES TO CROSSWORD No.1 (71) Compiled by W A. Potter occasions. But once started I soon settled down to the task as though sister wasn't there.
ACROSS:
1. Irritability of large intestine with passage of copious watery stools (6.7) 9. Applied to remove blood, mucuS or vomitus from pharynx of unconscious patient (7) 10. Bandage for exsanguinatioN of 28 Down prior to surgery. (7) 11. Provides pivot for rotary movements of the head . (4) 12. Slow healing complication of varicose veins. (5) 13. Point to oil lost in :')ft part of the back. (4) 16. Great fear of hidden adder. (5) 17 ..L He sort of treatment applied during pregnancy? (9) 19. Bone through which the spinal cord passes. (9) 21. Type of pneumonia producing crisis in absence of antibiotic therapy. (5) 23. Organ surrounded by the pleura. (4) 24. Bundle of nerves terminating spinal cord. (5) 26. Pure variety of balsam from South America. (4) 29. Hernial dissection provides apparatus for administration of volatile drug. (7) 30. Plan or action with no reasonable or sensible basis. (7) 31. Cutting part of upper limb? (8.5)
DOWN:
1. Homely rubefacient for relief of deep-seated inflammation. (7.8) 2. A nice C.O. provides local anaesthetic and drug of addiction. (7) 3. Acid forming renal calculi. (4) 4. Running together, as rash in severe smallpox. (9) 5 Sovereign, i .e in broken leg. (5) 6. Grave to doctor. (4) 7. Malignant tumour ending with deep unconsciousness. (7) 8. Closes a natural orifice. (9.6) 14. A small department is extremely skilled. (5) IS. Covering for the cranium (5) 18. Try under pail for anti-malarial drug. (9) 20. Container wrongly shut in the angle of the eye. (7) 22. Prepare a refreshing beverage from raw beet. (4.3) 25. Time for showers after March. (5) 27. There is mothing to a 10w-tensioID male voice (4) 28. Part of body in slim bone. (4)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 12 (70)
ACROSS:
1. Chorea; 4. Sponging; 10. Round-up; 11. Absc.ess; 12. Evil; 13. Urine; 14. St.ir; 17. L.ot ; 18. Haemorrhage; 20. Radiant heat ; 22. Hot; 23. Fang; 24. Smear; 26. F .air; 29. Inroads ; 30 Extract; 31. G.angr.ene; 32. FeveFs.
DOWN:
l. Corneal grafting; 2. Oculist; 3. Ed.dy; 5. Pla.in; 6. No .se; 7. Inertia; 8. Gastro-enteritis; 9. Aperient; 15. W heal; 16. Froth; 19. Operated; 2l. Dendron; 22. Hyalase; 25. Ma.son; 27. Hair; 28. Stye. 22
With the bath co mpleted (with only minor misunderstanding), in the office sister then questioned me on the p atie nt, which naturally led to more questions on general nursing. I cou ld see that this test was a check-up on how mu ch I had assimilated since joining the hospital. As it should be of course.
We haven't been told the results yet, but I did get a 'Y ou did very well' from sister. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed.
The next hurdle is intermediat e theory , which I'll be taking in the spring. But for now I'm just finishing the first of my thr ee years training - which has gone like a flash
To the Treasurer, Order of St. John, 1 Grosvenor Crescent, London, S.W .1.
Please supply/renew* years subscription to the St. John
Review commencing with the issue. I enclose .for years.
Until
Miniatures quoted for.-MONTAGUE JEFFERY , Outfitter, St. Giles Street , Northampton. (4)
HAMILTON HOTEL 11 Hartington Place (for brochure) EASTBOURNE 33456 Resident Managers: Mr & Mrs E. Frobisher Members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade
, Lever Street, Manches ter 1 Tel: 061 236 CARP S 3B@7 /B/ 8 268, DIG! Christchu rc h Rd. Bournemouth Tel: 21248 (11)
PERSONAL - I'lOMEWORKERS -T ypists,
Pencils, etc , Gold-stamped Brigade name or Personal names raise fu nd s quickly-easily. Details-Nortlnern Novelties, Bradford, 2. (22) 24
Certificate of Proficiency and Medal awarded to successful candidates who are a lso prepared for the Profi c i ency Certificates of the Ophthalmic Nursing Board Opportunities fo promotion and practical responsibility in the specialist field of nur sing. Apply to Miss M B. Ma cKe llar MaH on. (26)
LEWISHAM GROUP SCHOOL OF NURSING
We wanted to show you our new School of Nursing - but it's so new it won't be finished until MARCH 1971
Before then, we shall be looking for the first intake of :30 Student Nurses, on the 3 year course leading to State Registration.
20 Pupil Nurses, on the 2 year practical course leading to State Enrolment.
They won't be guinea pigs. Our Group has been training nurses for 86 years and we are particularly well known for our Special Care Baby Unit, Accident Department and Intensive Care Unit
If you want more information, or would like to visit us to see what being a nu rse is really like, write to, or phone Mary Howard, Student Secretary, at Lewisham Hospital, Lewisham High Street , London S.E .13.01-6904311. MOOR FIELDS EYE HOSPITAL CITY ROAD, LONDON, E.C.1.
Ophthalmic Student Nurses (82)
Candidates accepted at the age of 17 to comme nce an 18 months co urse of training as Ophthalm ic Students, Moorfields Medal an d C erti ficate awarded o successfw I candida tes. Well equ ipped Schoo of Nu rsi ng. Successfu ca ndid ates, on completion may enter the General Training School of their c ho ice. Comfortable Nurses' H ome n Kensington within easy reach of the Albert H all Victoria and Albert Museum and Theatres, T ennis Court Active Social C ub.
Applications in writing to M ahom. (8)
KINGSTON HOSPITAL Wolveton Avenue, Kingston-Upon-Thames Surrey.
This Hospital
Write
Pop - and First Aid, by L. K Levens and J. E. Durham p 2
A Handy Gadget, by Polly Ethel Lean p.6
Focus on First Aid , Pa r t 2 p.7
Around and About, by the Ed itor p.8
The Bends, by R. H Herve p 12 Bedford' s new H/Q p 14
Reader s View s p.16
Order Investiture, November 19,1970 p.18
Films p.19
News from Scotland and Northern Ireland p.20
Overseas News p.21
News from the Divisions p 22
National First A id Competitions p.23
THE CADET competition WRITE A CAPTION for the abov e photograph , which closed on December 1 1970 , produced thirty entries. Thirteen of this total came from one division , the Wallasey Nursing Cadet Division; thank you Mi s s Susan Vick , the division's superintendent , for your e nthusiastic support. A Wallasey cadet , I'm pleased to say , has won secoud prize.
The winning entry , which came from Cadet Leader Peter Monamy , 'Trylebois', La Moye , St. Brelade , Jerse y , is:
Smiling Jennie's feline friend demonstrates 'care of animals' at Harrow's open evening. Likewise instructed are Britain's 60 ,0.00 St. JOM cadets.
Congratulations , Pete. A book voucher valued five pounds will be sent to you.
The second prize, (' book voucher valued at three pounds, goes to Janet Nelson , 12 Grant Road , Leasdowne , Wallasey , Cheshire , for her entry: Sweet talk. Cadet Jennie Smith talks about care of animals , demonstrating on her own cat at Harrow Cadet Division
EDITOR FR A NK DRISCOLL 26 Pembroke Gardens, London W 8 (01 -603 -8512)
ADVERTISEMENTS : T G Scott & Son Ltd
Price 1/6
COVER: 1 Clemen t's Inn , London, WC2A 2ED (01 -242 -6264 and 01-405 4743)
23 sh llings pe annum, including postage from Treasurer, Order of St. John 1 Grosvenor Cre sce nt, London S W 1
St. John Nigeria on parade in Calabarpu r posefully
Two other entries which are good a s publicity slogans (but th e y are not ca ptions , which should te1l you something interesting a bout the picture) are: Will your cat have nine lives? - It might if you learn animal care with SJA, from W. J. Gibbs , 17 Norwood Road , Loudwater , High Wycombe , Bucks ; and An ill cat today is a better one tomorrow - thanks to St. John Ambulance animal care, f rom Jane Agnew , 2 Sylvan try Str eet , Bill e ricay , Essex. What s my caption? Well , wh a t about: ' OUCH!' SAYS TIDDLES. 'I AGREED TO HELP MY MISTRESS JENNIE TEACH HARROW ST. JOHN CADETS ANIMAL CARE - BUT NOT THIS!' The Editor
REPORT ON SJA COVERAGE OF THE HOLLYWOOD FESTIVAL OF MUSIC, HELD AT NEWCASTLE, STAFFS, MAY 1970
Compiled- by
L. K. Levens, Area Surgeon SJA, J. E. Durhc:m, Divisional Superintendent
IN EXAMINING the operational aspect of this weekend pop festival, it must be borne in mind that the duty was not administered as originally planned and therefore the ultimate plans differed greatly from what was intended.
EVENT: A week€nd gathering of young people to hear a total of 24 hours 'pop' music and all night entertainment.
VENUE: Arena -a fenced off enclosure with staging and amplification; catchment area, food tents, accommodation tents, all night theatres, toilets. Surrounding fields used for camping and car parks.
WEATHER: WaFm days, cold nights and a tendancy to frost.
ATTENDANCE: Campers, caravans, tents etc; large marquees to house the people.
TOILETS: Caravans with chemical toilets.
WATER SUPPLY: There seemed to be only one tap on the site.
DEPLOYMENT OF MEDICAL FACILITIES: One 14ft x 14ft tent was used as a first aid post in the main arena . One 100ft x 30ft marquee placed near the entrance and by the police post.
Medical requirements
OBJECT: To care for patients. NOT to refer all cases to the local hospitals.
LIST OF ESTIMATED COSTS:
STAFF
The number of non-medical staff totalled 36, many of whom did more than 1 x 8 hour shift.
The event was continuously manned from 8am on Sa turday until 2pm on Monday and throughout the nights
ADMINSTRA TIVE COSTS Cut to the bone.
DOCTORS FEES Cut completely by organisers but partial recovery was made by the use of temporary residents forms HIRE OF BUSES For transporting staff to and from Newcastle to site, cut completely.
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Cut completely. Equipment obtained from local doctors, hospitals or NHS.
HIRE OF TRANSPORT To collect equipment. Begg ed or borrowed.
SPECIAL FEES for use of stretchers. Cut completely. SPECIAL FEES for use of blankets. Cut completely.
Organisation It was with mlsglVlTIg that after press announcements and television broadcasts we approached the event on the Friday night. We found to our delight an orderly stream of young people of 'student' age rather than teenagers, who were tired but neatly dressed and quietly filing through and taking up their quarters.
Having decided how we would work, we then i nvestigated the proposed surgery and au tposts One marquee, approxima tely 100ft x 30ft was req uested and granted and although two smaller tents, each 14ft square were also asked for , only one was provided. The main surgery, which was situated some distance from the main arena and close to the police control unit, had easy access to the main road. The tent was positioned behind the stage. If the second tent had been available, then this would have been erected among the tents in the 'residential' area. Only the main surgery had a floor laid, but unfortunately the ground sloped and this proved dangerous. The floor , of coconu t rna tting, was aimed at keeping the tent dry particularly at night. Had there been the money available, heating in the form of Gas Oil, 300 ,000 B.T.D. heaters would have been installed in the main surgery. The only complaint of the night staff was that the marquee became cold and damp during their period of duty. Because of the short time in which we had to organise the lay-out, there was a great deal of wasted space in the surgery.
Although we could take nine stretcher cases and twenty sitting patients, with extra time this could h ave been extended to fifteen stretcher and thirty sitting patients. In addition to the 'ward' appearance of the marquee, a separate and rather solid stretcher table was provided O!l1 which a patient could be laid and examined in private. The whole of the treatment area was screened from the outside doorway, but again, this could have been improved to give more private cubicles. The tent, which contained a table and a few chairs, was used during the day time only, fo r minor treatments.
Staff welfare always plays an important part on a large duty and one aspect of this duty was catering. Arrangements were made for the staff to dine at one of the local training colleges ,
along with the police, who also provided the transport to move staff to and from the college. With the staff dining away from the site, this meant that at least one hour break was possible for all members. Within an eight hour shift, however this was not enough, and the so lution would have been to hav e more members on duty and to give a fifteen-minute tea break per sh ift Again, a staff rest-room would have been u seful, to enable members to relax during the off duty periods. The provision of new spape r s proved popular and although we were able to obtain a supply of barley sugar, we could not obtain cigarettes A point to bear in mind for the future.
A constant supply of tea was available from the mobile police canteen and this prevented staff from bringing flasks. It is our considered opinion that if you look to their welfare the staff will co-operate beyond the normal requirements; this was shown in that some m embers worked for up to sixteen hours.
A skeleton force of St. John and Red Cross members took the fie ld. After a great deal of thought thirty-six non-medical staff and ten doctor s were brought together - in this event they were just adequate - to work a multiple shift system. The local hospitals were informed and types of possible admission discussed with various senior memb ers of the consultant staff, who gave their whole-hearted support and were responsible for providing such beds, drugs and equip m ent as th ey thought n ecessa ry but not normally used in general practice. These, of course, were returned following the event. An excellent refle c tion on the co-operation of specialist and general practitioner services in North Staffordshir e
The morning of Saturday brought in twenty casualties but Saturday afternoon showed a gradual acceleration. All doctors on the site were misled by reports of drug-taking orgy-making hippies, and it was soon realised that a large number of people who looked as though they had taken stimulants were, in fact, ordinary, excited but rather tired (in some cases hungry) young people. Having taken this into consideration it was noted (with some hilarity) that the same symptoms were showing in the staff, particularly those at the first aid post in the arena! In fact one member, after listening to the music, said: 'It's a good job I haven't had a couple of gins!'
It is thought wise to comment at this juncture that this group of 35-40,000 youngsters had a natural dignity , grace and happiness that is difficult to credit (from adverse reports) unle ss it is seen. In the drug cases it had been discusse d with the police and agreed that 'intoxicated' patients were the problem of the medical staff but information about drug pedlar s would be given to the police.
Of the 493 cases treated - 1.25 % of ths number attending -16% required medical attention, · 2 % of this total required hospital treatment, and it is thought a further 250 trivial cases were treated but not recorded . It is believed that the number of staff used on this occasion were just sufficient to cover the needs of those attending.
One case of L.S D. intoxication was observed; the case history and notes on observation of the patient are included at the end of this report, together with a breakdown of the casualties.
May is a month of warm days and very cold nights. It would be wise to advise the audience to bring warm clothes and blankets or sleeping-bags. Because of the high prices charg.ed on the field they should be warned of the cost of food.
At this event toilet accommodation was NOT adequate particularly near the dressing station where it would be better to have some type of flush toilet. Toilets should not only be adequate but should be kept emptied. It is suggested that a minimum of one toilet per 250 people would be adequate for a three day event in closed accommodation. This is based on the figure of three minutes per occupant and each person using the toilet four times per day.
1. Running water piped into the dressing station to be connected to basins fitted with taps.
2. At least two taps should be available throughout the accommodation field.
3 Washing facilities to be availa b le in the food marq u ees and travelling vans selling food.
4 A water supply capab le of delivering at l east two gallons 0] wateI per head per day.
M EDICAL FACILITI ES
Staff: A minimum of 1 doctor per 2 ,0 0 0 attending; 6 first aid persennel per 2,00 0 attending.
A minimum of eighteen on day shifts, which could be divided between the out-posts, patrol and surgery. The moving of staff to give them duty at all stations is also important. Night duty should have a staff of eight: one member at least, a State Registered or State Enrolled nurse At least one ambulance should Iemain on night duty.
A senior medical officer, who is responsible for all medical cases. A duty commander, who is responsible for the entire oper ation, and who is in liai son with the S.M.O The D.C. will have duty officers, who will report in writing all hospital patients and will cause to have all other patients recorded in writing by the member treating the patient State Registered nurses, who will assist the duty doctors.
Essentials: One large marquee, as a majer surgery, fitted with floor heating, running water and electric light. Trestles on which stretchers are placed. Screened area designed to provide private treatments. Storage cupboards, with locks Waste disposal bins, emptied daily or as required. Two smaller tents, situated in the field, for minor treatments only. Rest room for the staff , with table s and chairs
A good c o mmunications system Although we had an internal telep h on e, this was inadequate, because of the time it took to centact the other p arty A walkie-talkie system wo u ld have been b e tt er and this could also have linked the mem b ers on patrol with the surgery
Catering, adequate to meet the needs of the event. We could not have done better anywhere. It is considered advisable at this juncture to state that food handlers should be free from infection of throat, nose, han d s, stomach and bowels, and should be prevlmted from handling the vast quantity of food required if so infected
It is t o be noted t hat because of the excellent liaison with police, fire brigad e and local hospitals, referal to hospitals was kept to a minimum
M EDIC A L REQUIREMENTS
Instrum e nts
Cheatles forceps
Sinus fon:eps
Sharp pointed scissors Suture forceps
Scalpel
forceps
Scalpel blades
Ny-lon, catgut aItld siiik
Hy-podennk needles PAin aItld 5 j8in
Assorted splints
Stethoscope
Auriscope
Cinical thennometer
Intravenous giving sets
Sterilizer , spirit type
D re ssing s
Safety pins (2 boxes x 144 as sorted)
Soap (8 tablets)
Eye bath (plastie)
Savlon CFeam (3 tubes)
Surgical spirit (6 bottles x 200zs)
Zinc oxide plaster (3 rolls 2in x 5yds)
Gauze (30 x 6yds)
BPC white bandage (24 lin x 6yds)
BPC white bandage (24 3in x 6yds)
Triangular bandages (100)
Assorted plaster dressings (2 boxe s, industrial)
Crepe bandages (12 x 5in)
Elastic adllesive bandage (3in x 12)
Methylated spirit (2 x 50ml)
Drug s
Suture needles
Hypodennic syringes 2 mI, 10 m!.
Oxygen equipmerl't
Inflatable splints
Ophthalmoscope
Sphygmomanometer
Anglepoise light
Spotlight
Torches
Nail brushes in containers (2)
Disposable towels (3 rolls )
Paper tissues (1 box 12in x 12in)
Savlon liqu id (12 bottle s)
Zinc oxide plaster (12 Tolls %in x 5yd s)
Cotton wool (15 x 160zs)
Small lint dressings (24 x No.7)
BPC white bandag e (24 2in x 6yds)
BPC white b an d age (24 4in x 6yds)
Sanitary towels for chil d birth (3 p acke t s, ste rile )
Visquin '500' (1 piece 12ft x 6ft)
E lastoplast (6, 3in x lyd)
D is posable cups (500)
Aspirin - panadin most used Piriton (50 x 4mg. tabs) (1,000 tabs) I cipe n (300 100 t abs)
Oxytetracycline (100 x 250 mg tab s) Largactil (100 x 25mg tabs)
Franol (100 tabs) Lomotil (100 tabs)
Soneryl (50 tabs)
Migril tabs
Sodium ch lorid e with dextrose tabs
Mist k ao lin et morpho
Benylin expectorant Ce tavlon conce ntrat e
Hibitane concentrate Calomine lotion
Injections
Valium (12-10m g in 2ml)
Physeptone (12-10mg in 2ml)
Piri ton (12)
Synnomitrim (3)
Saline (2 x 1,OOOcc)
Sofra tulle (6 x 10 pieces)
Chloromycetin eye drops
Flouracine e y e drops
Otrivine-antistin ear drop s
Casualties
Larg ac til (12-50mg in 2m ) Peth ide n e (12-100mg)
Xylocaine 2% (2 x 2 0 cc)
Phenobarbitone (3-3grn. Icc)
Salin e c5% Dextrose (2 x 1 ,OO Occ) So framyci n cr eam (3 x 15ml) Atropine eye drops
Otrivin e-an tistin eye drop s Chloromyctin ear drops
The following analysis indicates the number and type of patients seen and the medic al staff personally treated 81 patients, but actually saw many more and gave advice.
MAJOR SURGERY
(1) 5 ga llon wa te r urn.
(2) Portabl e st er ili zer.
(3) S toragc ca bin e s, with lo c k s (4) "Office" with telephon e. (5, 8 9 , 10) D ress ing tabl es.
(6) Wastebin.
(7) Angle poi se la mp
(lJ) Stret che r carri e r w i th s tor age, lo c ked.
(1 2 ) Stretchers, o n tre st les. (13)
O
C.V.S: P R. 90 C.V.S. Closed B P.
R.S: N.A.D.
ABDOMEN : N .A. D
C.N.S: Pupils dilat e d , reacted slowly to light and accommodation, other c r a nial n erves intact.
R eflexes - bri sk
Sensation - exquisitely sensative.
Pow er and Tone - less than normal.
Co-ordination - normal.
C / O : S e nsation or rapid tapping movement in the chest a nd upper abdomen faster than his own fingers could beat th e tapping. Hight ene d appreciation of co lour so und , taste and sensation to touch.
5 mgm Valium I.M.
During the day this patient was observed and as the day wore on other hallucination s began to develop namely: High te ned appreciation of where the pink stripes of the tents were more vivid and stood out. The black mark of the owner stood ou t almost in three dimensional figures There was still apprehension and fear of th e consequences of his act - dispite reassurance. The ta ctile stimuli of the act continued unabated and the h a llucin a tions now includ ed th e vision of squirrels running round t he tent Non e of the st aff observed such an animal. 1pm. Little change in hallucinations although not as apprehensive.
Observed - a hand slowly and sinuously (rather like the snake of the Indian snake charmer) rose from the blanket and it was noted that the youth was studying the back of his hand with abnormal interest and it seemed to the observer that the youth was noticing features concerning his hand which h e had never seen b efore After 3-4 minut es th e hand was slowly withdrawn in a similar m ann er with the original dormant attitude and was returned to the blanket
Questioning revealed that the visual hallucinations still persisted but were not frightening, the tactile stimuli were subsiding but the repetative rapid movement of fingers and toes continued; auditory, olfactory , and taste stimuli were stronger than normal.
3.35pm 5 mgm Valium L.M
General condition unchanged.
4 00pm Hallucinations st ill present but not as accentuated
6.00pm No material change.
10 mgm Valium L.M.
7.45pm Definite diminuation of stimuli but ret urn of apprehension
Larga ct il 25 z oral.
10.30pm Sle e p throughout nigh t, apparent full recovery in the morning
by Polly Ethel Lean
THE HOOK GRIP, cradle lift and pick-a-back method s of carrying a patient can be facilitated by a simple device which can be carried in the pocket. The Seamanship Manual would probably call it a coutinous long-splic€ grommet strop , and anyone who can splic€ a rope should be able to make it. However, there are a few snags and the following hints, from the experience gained in making quite a few, may avoid disappointment
The material is three-stranded nylon rope, purchasable at any ship chandlers, camping shop and some ironmongers at about 2d. a foot. Sinc e this material has en o rmous strength , the smalle s t size is suitable and I have used the 1 in ch (circumference) size , as thi s is the ea sie st obtainable; although as this has a breaking strain of 1000 pounds , even smaller rope would not be unsuitable.
For the purpose a ring of about 10 - 12 inches is required, allowing 4 inches for the average width of the palm (See Fig. 1) To achieve this an initial length of 27
to 30 nch es should be cut o ff.
Temporary whippings of a f e w turn s o f cotton (pr e f erably bl ac k) should b e m a d e at 7 % to 8 inche s from each end , le av i ng 12 to 14 in c hes ce ntrally U nrav el th e ends to thes e wh i ppings. Secure the filament s forming each strand f ro m unravelling by turn s of sellotap e; bring this out to little spik e s (thi s h elp s th e su bsequent spli c ing and m a k es unnece ssary a marlin spik e, o r any substitut e for one).
Now "m a rry " the ends , i. e. br i ng th e m together with the strands int e rl oc kin g alternately , each north e nd' str a nd between two sou t h end ' strand s. (S ee Fig. 2) But before do i ng this it is advisable to 'slack jaw' the central part by loosening the lay by twisting i t ag ainst the lay by abou t two complete turn s and maintaining this 'untwist' whil st marrying the ends. This greatly as sis t s the subsequent splicing , which otherwi se becomes tighter and tighter and, if the completion s achieved at all , the ring is contm:ted into a figure-eight shape.
Ensure a close marry, t ight against the cotton whippings.
Inexperienced splicers will now find it a help to whip the three north strands around the south 'standing part' becau se the next move is tricky if all the strand s are loose.
Start the splicing lOy passi ng each of the three soutn strands ove r one north stralil.d, and in under the nex t north strand (See Fig 3). At each int e rstice of the north 'standing part' there will now be one south strand going in and one south strand coming out.
Supervised by J. Hindle, LRCP, MRCS, MB, BS, (Senior Casualty Officer Luton and Dunstable Hospital)
1
Pr ocee d for two or t h ree t ripl e t u cks t o e n s ur e yo u a r e fo ll ow in g th e proper p at t e rn.
N o w cu t t h e w h ipp
Ca rry o n tu ckin g t h e str an d s un ti l the s t r and s of t h e t w o en d s m ee t A s you pr ocee d you w il l see t h e a dv an ta ge of loose-j a wing th e cen r al part sin ce th e stra n ds , loose e n o ugh t o st ar w th , tigh te n con sid era bl y an d t h e r eve r se kink o f th e rin g w il l b e t ak e n up S t r e t c h t h e ring f requ e ntly as you spli ce
Cut and pick ou t the temp o rary whippings a t th e marry ing po i nt.
Man-made fi br e is springy and h ar sh, so secure th e end s with Ev ostick or simil ar whit e or tr ansp ar e nt adh es iv e, and, when this is dry, trim off the superfluou s length s clo se to the ring.
Th e m at e rial co st s Sd (2d. per f oot) and th e job only takes an hou r or so fiddling whil st watching telly - but don ' t try to do too many in one ev e ning ; it makes your fingers ve ry sore.
Whenever, on Public Duty or otherwise, you have to get a stranger to help you with a Hook Grip , it is so easy to offer the ring and instruct him to hold his part as you ar e holding yours and then Iboth of you pa ss it under the patient's legs to the buttocks. It is so muc h e asier than try i ng to m aintai n a finger-tip grip on his finger-tips , especially i f the patient is heavy and your hands are sweating or wet.
An equally common, but le ss dang erou s inDury is that when a pie ce of grit is blown into th e eye. The se for eign bodie s nearly always lodge underneath the upp er eyelid and th ey cause the same symptom s and sign s a s that described in Part 1 (3). The whole of the eye mu s be carefully in spect ed to make sure that there is no foreign body n the corn er of the eye, or adherent to th e surfac e of th e eye. If nothing is seen the upp er eyelid should b e averted a s follows:
Grasp the 2 eyelashes and pull the upper lid downwards and outwards over the lower lid
3 Place a smooth matchstick at the base of the upper lid, press it gently backwards, pull the upper lid over the matchstick and so invert the eyelid
4
Removal of the 5 foreign body in this manner will give the patient immediate and lasting relief. If the foreign body cannot be wiped away from the eyelid, send the casualty to the doctor or to a hospital for treatment
Reproduced by permlsszon of the Am bulance Bulletin, and thanks to Mrs. E. J. Lovett, Nursing Superintendent , Luton No 1 Nursing Division, SJA, and Miss Brenda Gingell, for their assistance. Photographs by Terence Wh e eler
Congratulations to the following S t. J ohn Ambul ance member s who appear e d in the few Year H onours L i st :
OB E - Miss Maud H arrison MBE , \v ho was at H eadquarters for 46 y e ars secretary to four Superintendents-inChief, and retired last ear
MB E - Miss Marjorie Mort o n -P alme r who joined the B rigade in 19 9 in Devon
w h e r e her father was Commissioner w as County Secretary , D evon , from 19 4 7 to 5 3, an d County S e cretary , Wiltshire from 195 4 : she will retire fro m this post durin g 1971.
B EM Mr H. S u p erin tend ent T r a nspor t Division.
J ones, D ivisional L iverpool Imalid
J ohannite r -Unfall-Hilfe SJA in German y, are plannin g a joint training c amp on the isl an d of S y lt for a fortnight from August
1 6 to 31 19 71 and hav e in vited thirty SJ A members betwe e n 1 6 and ye ar s old from B ritain. It is sugge sted th a th e p arty should be made up o f 0 men and 1 0 youn g women B oard and lodging at the cam p will be free of charge, but m emb ers will have to p ay their return f ar e t o the camp
A pplications to att e nd should b e made to the B rig a de Chie f St aff Off ic er SJA H ea d quarte r s, 1 Gro svenor Cre sc ent , Lon d on S .W l
NURSING ON TV
A new T V -programme entitled 'Pra c ti al T echniq u es f or Nurses in T raining' a series o f ten 2 5 -minute programm es d es igned specificall y f or the nur sin g p ro f ggs on an d in particular for s e c ond 8
Isle of Wight : :\1r s. "Y J acobs Co u nty Sup!. (K)
Gibralt ar A ocia t ion: Chairman - Capt. W. H K H oare Secre a ry - H. P ay as. Police H Q Gibral1ar.
Brigade: D istrict S up t. ') :\1L. .\1. Soleci. Hong Kong A ociation: Chairman - '\1r. G. R. Pi cke n Kent : Area ioner. .\fr. A shman to Dep. Com.
Headquarters Mr Oliver appointed De \ 'elopmem
O ffice r or R egion Y and Headquarter- S ra1T Office r (Grade un.
L a d y R osula Glyn to b e S1A r ep r esentative on the new F oun d a ion fo r the S rudy of Cor Death CoL Pri ce resigned a Commi ioner.
So u thern Area
Derb y shire D E. Jenkin appointed Com missioner. D erby Area
Ken t : } ir. F C. Rolfe appoinred Commis_ioner.
2 Area
N o rth ampto nshi re : D r. H. :'-I. Weayer appointed
C o m missione r 1\0. 1 lPeterborough H untingdon) .-\.re·a
Shropshire : Dr. \Y. G. L iggen appointed Cry Surgeo n
Surrey Dr. R. G Southern re-igned as Cry. Surg eon
MaC'rrt iu s : Please amend spel.l.i.ug of enrrie in direc tory to r ead as follows:A ociation Secr etar\ ': :\1r R an g-asam\' Prin cjpal _ '\1r':. }iarie .\f ay ail e !. QD -:\I
Zambia : Corn - :\1r F. Chela (Cammi- ioner of P o li ce) D e p Co m - '\1r. S. G R adfo rd
Nige ri a Railway Corpo ration : Com - Dr. Paul O E phraim Dep. Co rn. - :'-i.r. E. A Imoukhuede
Sabah Com - Da to M oh'd Nan bin Haji .\j oh d YU 50 ff, yj ce Dr. E. R. D ingley - r e 'gn e d
Tanzania : Co m - :'-1.r. F. K B urengelo
IN THE WORLD OF ST JOHN
y ear student nurses. started on B BC- l d uring January.
T he pro gramme h are shO\yn at 3 ..J.- pm and repeated at ..J.':-pm will co\'er the followin g su bje ts durin g F ebruary and }, f arch: Conge tiye H earT F ailure and 11 February :King' olle ge H ospital: Intensiye Care after "'f ajor Heart Surgery (9 and 1 February I S r. T homa Ho itaL Congenital P ylorie Stenosis 116 and February) Queen N.ary s C arshal ton : Diabetes \ielliru - \.=3 F eb r u a r y and ..J. arc h) St. B artholomew's Hospital: X ur ing of A cme Depre ion (,=: and 11 "\laudsley H o pital: RecO\'ery from S troke (,9 and 1 ..\iarch) Islington H ome ;\ ursing eI\ice.
The approa h and -ont en ( of ea h pro gramme depend - ne e arily. on the - ope and nature of the subject bm they are all for the mo-t parr. ba ed on teaching ho pi tal in the Sou th 0; England and include fIlm on pe -iiinursing technique- rudio demon tration- of procedure and, where appropriate. the comments of tutor. nurses and patients. T he programmes anempt to give a comprehensiYe \iew 0the parti ular medi al condition in luding the related aspe ts of and phy-iology but the empha is is throu ghout on the nur in g te hniqueiny oh·ed. The erie is intended to be entirely orientated towards nurses and to rene t a omplete a picture as po ible of the nurse s role as she eFe the patient's nee d s both inside and out ide the ho pital.
T he erie consul tan t is Mi WiniJred H e to r , R:\,T , },fP hi!. formerly P rincipal Tutor. S r. B artholomew s H ospital, who has written a booklet ( BB C P ubli ation 5 / - ), to ac ompany the
SJA MEDICAL CONFERENCE
T he SJ A Medical Conieren e a gain be h el d at Nottin g ham niversity: the date are A pril 16-1 inclusive F riday evening to S un d ay afternoon).
T he theme for this year s conference
S ome P robJems in Extraction of Casualties' and weU -known guest speaker will be invited to Ie ture upon appropriate ubje t
T h e fi rst s o d is d u g "h er e He m el Hemp sTe ad 's n e w SJ A H Q s o b e b uilt. C h a irma n of th e loc al R oun d Tab e , Mr Colin Davis, an d hi s wife, s h ared th e ritual spadework with Mr A le c Gr ay, Di. S upt. (P hoto: E ve nin g E cho, Hemel Hem p stea d)
T he onierence i-open to aU mem ber of medical and nur ing rofe--ions and counry framing oHi er are al 0 imited. -\ ppli -ation form for rhe conference may be obtained from -ounty -e rerarie-.
The urgeon - in - Chie--. CoJonel R. OJlerenshaw. wi he fO m in tain con tam ommuni -ario n wirh all proie- ional ofiicer of 1. John Ambulance: he con-ider- that one method of in\'iring arrention i by the J- ue of a ewsletter' from hi- deparrmenr a and when there i sufficient material to mare publi-arion of the new- ener desirable. This new letter. the fir t i ue of whi-h will be published shonly. will be forwarded to ounry -e rerarie - for onward rransmi -ion to recipients.
The ne" urgeon -in -Chiei is \'ery anxiou that r Vo-\\3y Traffic re ult from rhis new lener he feel [hat information. q uerie and -pe ifi lOPIC 0:- general Inlere t forwarded ro Headquaner - from prore--ional members will greatly fa -ilitate the poliL'Y deci ion o - \fedi 31 Board
The following announ -emen r has been i--ued by the Dlfector General. ir Hugh S tephen -
The need h - been e-rablished ior the prO\'i ion of a hon cour e of in rru rion in :-irsl aid, which ma\' be deli\'ered in a -ingle .l-hour or evening ses ion. or ill hourly or two-hourly session a - may be found rna 1 conyenien t. and in re-Decr of whi -h no formal qualification \\ ';uld be awarded. R e eipt for cour e ee will seI\'e a you hers of attendance.
The rea ons for the inTroduction of this Our e are tated with indisputabJe authority in an ani Je in the British Medical Journal, on lovemb er = 1969, entitled 'Fir t Aid Training'. by Surgeon Rear Admiral Stanley Miles, CB, "\1D. ..\f S c. Vi e Chairman of the "\fedi aJ Commission on Acciden r Prevention and Dean vf Po -t -Graduare Medl al Studies, :\fanche-ter niyersirY. The article was reprinred in the April 1970, under the ri tle Emergen y!
The ourse will be ba ed on a new publi arion to be issued hartly enritled 'A Digest of First Aid', and per on s attending \vill be pro\'i ded with a copy of the book for reference purposes. The
wilJ be in luded in the fee harged t ee below). A free learler will al 0 be i ued ror u-e by rhe in rru tor who will pIOyide rhe ne e sary teaching. erially numbered counrerfoil books will be i- ued by rhe R egistrar on demand to Centre-. ontaining tear-off combined receipt for our e fee and arrendan e youchers. which mu [ be u ed for all these entre-. The youcher will cost 2ea h. and the fee le\'ied by entre should be suffi ient to meet this harge. the -0 r of the publi arion the instru tor- fee and en tre oyerhead. Centre are empowered to fix. their own r,He nd the -e may be varied locally to uit the circum tan e of individual cla--es. They should not exceed £ 1.0.0. per candidate, without prior authority cf the Director-General. which for rhis
purpo e. delegated to ounty Director
T he e our e may be delivered by any of rhe exi ring categorie of in truccor a t pr e ent provided for in CIa R egulations, bur i1 is of the highest importance that qualified instructional capacity is not di"erted from the prime task of providing certific a ted instructio n on \ hich t h e exi tence of t he Fo un datio n rests, a nd without which n o ex p ans ion is p os sib le. T here is rea on co believe, ho w eve r , that particularly within t h e Br igade, th e r e e>Jsts a significant n umber of m e m be r s fully competent to deliver the inst r uctio n necessary for this short cou r se who, for vario u reasons, ha e not hitherto fo u n d it possible to obtain and use the L ay Instru tor s qualifica io n Su ch m e m b ers should be identified an d invite d t o a cc ept
At tnis im e of the e arremember the ambu ance crews. De o d Bo e\ Tracey's Red C ross dr er rs. E dna oung ( eft ) an d anendant rs. Irenne Clou1: in g. At Braunton the job 15 done by SJA (f rom left) 1rs. A li ce E vans, G "en P age , rs arjorie Tucker isses Fay Pic ard and Pam Page 1rs. Phyll is Barnen, Irs. Freda Roet i ges, Mrs. Chr ist in e Croc er 1rs_ lar gare1: Gooow in. !Irs. Kay Goodyear and aT the "hee rs. Winifreo Kn ght ( P hoto: \ averley P notographic, Ba r nstaple)
the major part of the task now created which will have the effect of spreading Brigade influence in fresh fields.
Coun ty directors are therefore, empowered to authorise such members, in writing, to deliver this instruction locally, and to receive the fees prescribed in clause 7(a) of Class Regulations. It is r8commended that county directors
superintendent.
In 1969 AIM Burton 's 1257 hours of duty won him the J 0 h n How lett cup for outstanding service.
consult urgently with county commissioners and county surgeons with the object of drawing up lists of suitably qualified members.
The selection is left to county directors who may find that a simple certificate of competence, provided by a Brigade divisional superintendent or surgeon, would be helpfuL
1 hear that His Beat iit ude, The Greek Orthodox P.atriarch in Jerusalem was admitted to our Ophthalmic Hospital for a cataract operation and was discharged on December 6. So far all is going
His Beatitude Benediktos 1 is an associate Chap l ain and Sub-Prelate of the Order. Relations between the hospi t al and the Patriarch have been most cordial in recent years and several others of the Greek Orthodox clergy are also members of the Order.
For their services to the Orthodox community in Palestine both Sir Stewart Duke-Elder and Mr. Keith Lyle have b ee n appointed Knights of the Holy Sepulchre as h ave also Dr. Boase, Dr. Batten and th e Secretary-General.
It was indeed interesting to hear that an SJA Division had made its own film. The Division's superintendent R. F. Pitman sent me this report:
In April 1969 a decision was made by the Spa Ambulance Division of Cheltenham to make an 8mm sound film of approximately 20 minutes duration with two aims in mind: a) to maintain and stimulate interest in its members ; and b) attract new members.
Only one member, Corporal R Coliingridge (ex. Godstone Division , Surrey) was aware of th e problems involved but even he, I'm sure, never foresaw the difficulties which lay ahead. It was decided to centre the film on Cheltenham Race Course where many of our members perform duti es. Mr. Roffey , Race Course Manager, readily agreed to allow our members to film the activities at race me etings Mr. T. Biddlecom be , National Hunt Champion Jockey 1965/66 & 69 , was approached and he agreed to play the role of an injured jockey. The financial standing of the division was not good so approaches were
Stage one of Braintree and Brocking (Essex) Ambulance Division' s re-equipping -a £2 000 ambulance By the summe they hope to replace their short with a long made to film companies and other orgaJlisations resulting in gifts of films.
The 'Green Light' was received and the project commenced. Almost immediately the 'gremlins' struck; Ambulance member P. Duggan , a member of the film sub committee, was taken to hospital with appendicitis . A series of four 4-minute films was taken of the April race meeting; when developed they were very dark and had to be discarded; the cause probably was due to the films being dated older than manufacturer's recommended life span. Mr. T. Biddlecombe , in racing colours, arrived one fine summer evening at the race course and with all the necessary staging two cine-cameras clicked away. The films were dispatched for processing - again disappointment , when examined one of the films was found to have a pinky stripe
wheelbase Landrover they will also have
new caravan, presented by the late superintendent's daughter (Photo: Braintree and Witham Times) throughout its entire length; the processing company was held responsible.
The Gloucester and Cheltenham Corps staged a 'Major Incident', a simulated train disaster , near Gloucester. This incident and other aspects of Brigade work was shot on four separate films and these were sent away for developing Disaster was the order of the dayunknown to us one camera had developed a fault on the first film and consequently affected all four films. So these films were also discarded
Since then the other camera broke down and difficulty is being experienced in having it repaired. The sound projector (very rare in 8mm) also broke down at a crucial stage.
However , the film was completed and eventually the 'Big Day' arrived - 16th Decem ber 1970 ; ninteen months after the
proje ct started. The film was shown to an invited audience of over 100 people. In colour and with sound, it runs for about 40 minutes and depicts not only the activities of the Spa Ambulance and Cadet Divisions but the work of the Corps. Even at the last moment the gremlins almo st struck again in the form of 'electricity cuts'.
Ignoring the broken camera s and proj ector and the man hours involved, the cost of this project is in the region of £ I 2, though if we had had to pay for ali materials used it would have been £20£30.
At the conclus ion of what was termed by the G loucestershire Echo as a 'world premiere' , Corporal Coliingridge was promoted to sergeant. Mr. Coliingridge, who is headmaster at Alderton school near Cheltenham, was responsible for the sound effects and most of the goud photography. The gene ral consensus of opinion is that he has made a very good 'amateur' film. We, in the Spa , hope that it will be a means of not only attracting new members to ourselves but the Brigade in general, and with this in mind we hope to show it in factories, colleges and schools.
Brigade Headquarters has expressed an interest in seeing the film. We shall await their observations with interest.
WITH THEIR OWN PORTABLE RECOMPRESSION CHAMBER, GUERNSEY SJA IS STRAIGHTENING THIS PROBLEM OF AQUA-LUNG DIVERS
by R. J. Herve, Staff Officer (T)
treatment which proved entirely successful. He was removed f rom the chamber at 3am the following morn ing and finally discharged after re maining in hospital for a further twelve hours und er observation.
The second case for treatment was under similar circumstances on September 22. In this treatment the casualty, Mr. Michael Le Chemin ant entered the c hamb er shortly after 8 pm and remained ther e unde r pressure for so me six hours after which he was discharged from hos pital comp let ely cured.
AS REPORTED in the December 1969 issue (')f the Review, the Guernsey St. J ohm Ambulance Transport Department have been able to purchase, through the generosity of the Hayward Foundation, a one-man portable recompression chamber. This steel chamber, weighing approximately S20 lbs, is seven feet long and has an interior volume of 22 cubic feet. The ancillary equipment consists of air storage bottles and an electric air G(')mpressor. The complete unit cost approximately £2000.
These items have been obtained for the express purpose of treating cases of 'The Bends' (Decompression SiGkness) of which , as readers are aware, the effects Gan be particularly unpleasant with stiffness and pain in the j (')ints, weakness of the limbs, difficulty in breathing, vertigo, disturbances of speech and vision etc., and unless treated promptly, p€rmanent disability. It is a serious condition which can have tragic consequences, and recompression treatment in a confirmed case is URGENT.
The type of casualty most lik ely to contract this sickness is an aqua-lung fisherman, who after diving repeatedly for shell fish surfaces and then collapses with the signs and symptoms suggesting an acute case of the Bends If he is fortunate enough to be on board a boat equip p e d with radio the harbour authorities are contacted, who in turn inform the ambulance station.
An ambulance is despatched to me e t the casualty at the harbour. Specialist doctors are informed of the emergency and the chamber (normally kept at ambulance headquarters) is sent , also by ambulance, to the hospital along with trained personnel to operate it. The casualty is taken to the hospital and examined by a doctor who , if he confirms the diagnosis, must decide whether or not treatment can be carried out in the Island. This will entail keeping the diver in the chamber for some hours at carefully controlled pressures. He is placed on a special stretcher inside the chamber which is then sealed and pressurised. Subsequent voice contact is
via a two-way intercom, with food, d rink and medical supp lies being passed through an air lock. Three observation windows are situated near the head
The doctor is ch arge of the case decides upon the pressure at which treatment must b e carried out. This is dependent upon many factors , e.g. the depth and duration of div es recently undertaken , the se verity of symptoms, etc. Air is then introduc e d into the chamber from the storage cyli nd ers and allowed to build up to the required pressure a maximum of five atmospheres. The St. John operator, by carefully moni toring the di al s set on the chamber 's control panel and by regularly adjusting the air valves , ensures that a flow of air is maint ain ed and the correct pressure sustained.
If however , owing to the n a tur e or severity of the cas ualty's co ndition , local treatment is n ot advisable, he is still placed as quickly as possible in the chamber a nd compressed. Arrangements are then made by telex with the French naval authorities at Cherbourg to admit the sick diver to their static mulbplace chamber at the dock yard An air c raft is chartered to transport the Guernsey chamber to France where it is lo c ked on to its larger c ounterpart, the pr essure s in both equalised and the casualty transferred to roomier surroundings but still under pressure. More elaborate t re atment can then be carried out by the French medical team.
It was not very long before the fir st casualty to require the services of the chamber was admitted to its confines. At 6.S0pm on May 28 Mr. Francis Russell called to the ambulance station and reported that he suspected he had contracted the Bends. The emergency plan was immediately put into operation and he was taken to hospitaL Diagnosis was confirmed and Mr. Russell was promptly placed in the chamber. His condition was not too serious and the doctor decided to carry out local
bottle (Photo T /Cpl. John Marshall)
A mon th later on October 22 at 8.30pm saw the co mmen cement of a night of drama for the department. Mr. Christopher Lanyon, a professional aqua-lung fisherman , visit ed the ambulance h ea dquarter s comp la ining of symptoms suggesti ng the Bends After exam in a tion by the duty personnel in the sta tion 's fir st ai d theatre he was promptly administere d oxygen and rushed to hos pital. The chamber and its a ttenda nt staff followed.
Th e doctor co n firmed diagnosis and Mr. Lanyon entered the cha mber at 9.lSpm a t a pr essure eq ui va l ent to tha experienced at 13 0ft, i.e. the depth at which he had been diving Contrary to the two previous cases , Mr. Lanyon's condition did not improve a nd s hortly after llpm the doctor in charge decided that the casualty would have to be taken to France. The St. John team operating the chamber at the hospital were in direct radio comm uni ca tion with their headquarters a nd the do c tor's decision was immediately rel ay ed to the officer-in-charge, Area Commissioner R. H. Blanchford , OBE , GM, who commenced the com pli cate d procedure for the patient 's trans fe r.
Aircraft for emergency fligh ts from the Island are usually procured in about 40minutes. Unfortunately the Dakota assigned for any recompression emergency was in Cologne and alternatives were sought. Trunk calls to both British and French airlines brought no success. The major problems were the regulations which did not permit crews to be airborne after already fulfilling their day 's quota of flying hours , and it was also essential that the aircraft be large enough to carry the chamber and its necessary attendants.
Shortly before 3am the United States Air Force base at Woodbridge in Suffolk was contacted and their assistance sought. They in turn had to contact USAF in Southern Germany for permISSIOn , but as soon as this was forthcoming a giant Hercules aircraft took off and headed for Guernsey where tme auport had been opened fOT the flight an d ground staff were standing by.
At 4.30am the mercy plane, with its lOman crew especially trained in rescue work , touched down. The chamber , with
My. Lanyon inside was quickly transferred from the waiting ambulance and securely fastened to the floor of the aircraft. Doctor and accompanying SL John personnel boarded and at Sam the plane was airborne en route for Cherbourg.
The French authorities had already been alerted from Guernsey and their airport had been opened with staff standing by. As soon as the aircraft landed the chamber was transferred to a waiting French ambulance and accompanied by its Guernsey escort raced through the deserted streets of sleeping
Cherbourg to the Naval Dockyard. A
minutes after 6am the two chambers were connected, and after transfer the patient was quickly undergoing examination and treatment by the French doctors.
At 7.40am the Hercules again landed in Guernsey bringing back the doctor , St. John team and chamber thus completing an international effort in the saving of life.
Mr. Lanyon spent 26 hours in the French chamber at Cherbourg and a further 4 day conva les cing in the nearby naval and military hospitals. We are glad to report that he is fit and well again.
WHEN BEDFORD SJA's new county headquarters was opened by the Chief Commander Sir William Pike last October it was a case of a home reverting to its original owners. For the building, a former rectory in St. John's Street, Bedford, is built on the foundations of a St. John Hospice founded in the 12th century. About five years ago Bedford SJ A lost its old home under a compulsory ord(H and they were given this building in restitution. At the time they knew little of the building's history and after calling in Major John Gedge, a local architect who specialises in restoration work, slowly the great discovery began to unfold.
The story is best told in report form by Major Gedge, who has since been made an honorary member of the Brigade :
Brief History
Founded as the Hospital of St. John the Baptist as a house of charity for a master and brethren to care for residents of Bedford who became poor by misfortune and not by fault.
The date of origin is somewhat obscure. Although it is dated 980 in the
foundation Charter, this is said to be incorrect, but early work and some herring-bone walling suggests that the building existed in the 12th century. Later in 1216 Robert De Parys is named as the founder, with Henry St. John as the Benefactor.
Although full investigation has been made and foundations uncovered, so much change has taken place through the centuries that its true plan cannot be established, but it is very probable that the buildings were ranged round a quadrangle and that the present building is only a portion of the original.
The Church of St. John adjoining originally belonged to the Hospital and it is thought that the two were connected with a cloister or covered way; but in Henry VIII's reign the Hospital ceased to be a House of Charity and became the Parsonage House or Rectory of St. John's Church.
John Bunyan
Of particular interest to the townspeople of Bedford is the close connection of the building with John Bunyan through John Gifford a Nonconformist who became Master of the House in 1653 and
the Chief Commander, Sir William Pike (Photos: Bedford Cou ntv Press)
established there what was known as the 'Bedford Church'. John Bunyan attended this church and received advice and instruct i on from John Gifford and was converted there, and in the Pilgrim's Progress John Gifford was the Interpreter and St. John's Hospital w as the Interpreter's House
The Building Before Present Repair 'Uncloaking'
Through the centuries many changes have taken place that to most people the building was one of Victorian period with little early work remaining and of n o great interest , and it was largely due to the interest and enthusiasm by the County Planning Officer at that time, Mr. Peter Laws, and a sympathetic Council, that investigations were permitted which disclosed that beneath the Vi c tor ia n cloak there remained an interesting medieval building. The evidence brought to light proved that the building was of sufficient interest to receive grants from th e Historic Buildings Council for England and the Pilgrim Trust, and further help from the Borough of Bedford .
Full Investigation
La t er, the Council authorized sufficient funds for a f ull investigation to be made. This investigation was of great value, not only in bringing to light the original character of the building but enabling the scope of the repair work to be envisaged and the value of the proposed works to be assessed. This preliminary inve stigation is the key factor in allowing the cos t control th a t has been exercised throughout the execution of the work and it is earnestly recommended that it be an essential step in similar work that may be under take n in the future. In this particular exercise full credit must be given to the Quantity Surveyor Mr. Bebbington , and to Mr. Waller , who is engaged practically on the work.
Present Building
The present building comprises three elements :
A. A CENTRE BLOCK containing a timber fra med walling to the East and West and an early medieval roof, the main truss of which gave first evidence of the antiquity of the building
In the repair work all the original timbers remain and the only new member is one wind-brace. The roof was repaired in position and strengthened by metal work. There was a ceiling that had to be removed, and this necessitat ed the introduction of the tie- rods which will be seen Most of the plaster work between the timber studding (uprights) is original. Benea th this timbered structure the room below is of particular interest , with fragments of wall paintings of the late 14th or early 15th century and with painted joists which were disclosed when the plaster ceiling was taken down. Cleaning only of these timbers has been undertaken and the painting is original without restor ation of any kind. In the North wall of this room old openings have been uncovered and these have been preserved.
B. WEST BLOCK: Originally it was thought that the part of the building facing St. John's was of later date but it is now almost certain that this is part of the original building although alterations h vet aken place, particularly the wmdows with their ogee arches which were inserted in the e c. rly 19th century and are shown on Fisher's drawings made at the beginning of the 19th century. The ogee arches have been preserved and the brickwork of that time remains.
In the ground floor of the West Block similar painted joists exist. The passageway between the West room and the Centre Block was cut in the thickness of an earlier wall and at the north end of this passage was found the base of a medieval newal staircase.
C. EAST BLOCK: This East Block is ]argely of a 9th century date but of materials from the early buddmg. Through this later block the foundations of the original building have been uncovered, and are indicated on the
Ground Floor
floors in green tiles
In this East range was evidently the Great Hall of the original building and the north reveal of the tall south window gives positive evidence of this and is preserved precisely as found when it was recently uncovered.
The East jambs were lost when a brick flue was built in recent years.
D. On the North wall of this hall can be seen an early arched opening which unfortunately was partially destroyed when a 19th century window was cut into it above This 19th century feature still remains. To the East of this arched opening is a tall narrow opening with a splayed cill which is of an early date.
In the alterations to make this buildirlg suitable for the Headquarters of the St. John Am bulance it has been possible to reproduce a hall which contains two walls of the hall that originally existed. Connected with this hall is a small kitchen formed out of part of a passageway considerably later than the original building and at the East End are the entrance hall, stores, lavatories and garage necessary for the purpose for which th e building is now required
On the North side the brick gable was apparently built when the longer West range of buildings was reduced. The present front boundary wall is very probably the base of an original wall of th e building a nd behind property which has now b ee n sold away from st. John House , is herring-bone masonry which was an early part of the Hospital buildings Undoubtedly this wall should be scheduled as an ancient monument.
Although the South wall has undergone changes with the introduction of different windows through the centuries, of these the jamb stones can be seen. The wall for its length is for the most part original and in the recent repairs only repointing and essential making good of defects has been carried out.
Inside the building the stone-walling is all early work recently uncovered and merely repointed and repaired and no new stone has been introduced. The plastered walls are either a later or recent b rick work and do not hide any interesting features.
In the repairs to the exterior no new worked stone has been introduced and the quoins and jambs are all as found , and where repairs to the angles of the building were essential tiles have been introduced_ The roof was stripped and recovered with the old tiles re-used but the chimney stack was in an advanced state of decay and has been re-built
The staircase from Harold Hall was acquired at the time of its demolition and was given to the Borough of Bedford by Mr. A Boyd Gibbins. A new staircase was essential for the new St. John Hou se and it seems appropriate that this staircase from an important Bedfordshire house should be pres e rved and the co-operation of the Borough of Bedford made this possible and the staircase was adapted so that it is largely in i ts original form The treads and risers , however are all of new construc tion.
from John J. Johnson, SJAA Hon Sec.
To briefly answer the letter , Review October 1970, headed New-Type Civil Defen ce from J E. Smith :
1) It is not a new-type Civil Defence. Civil Defence remains. There is no Civil Defence Corps. There are still a number of highly-trained personnel who desire to retain their facts and skills. In some areas they have called themselves the Civil Aid Associa tion.
2) Their aim is not to duplicate the services of St. John or the B.R.C.S; it is to co-oFdinate with these two organisations and to cover all the other tasks and skills that can not be covered by them. When a large scale emergency involving los s of life arises, for instance, Civil Aid are trained to organise transport, essential communications, every aspect of technical rescue , control of the operation at local authority level, mass casualty training in first aid and nursing, large sca le emergency feeding and care of the homeless, the provision of reconnaissance to cover all uses f or the local community and essential services, technical application in the scientific field, specialised instructor training to Home Office standard, and many other subjects.
3) Civil Aid is self-supporting ; it receives no financial aid from local authorities.
4) Efforts by Civil Aid to co-ordinate and co-operate have not received any support from staff officers of St. John in this local authority area.
S) Why doesn't St. John Ambulance and the Red Cross combine?
Warrington, Lanes.
COMPETITIONS
from P Rothwell John J Johnson
1 read with interest the two recent correspondent's views on first aid competitions and I agree entirely with most of the points they made. I should, however, like to add one or two other points:
l. '1 would carefully draw the injured limbs together,' - and the heels come together with a crash that would not have disgraced a guardsman on parade.
2. From a team member examining the lower limbs. 'Are the eyes equal or dilated; do they react to light?' All this time the casualty lay face down with the eyes shut
3. A team member is electrocuted and put out of action , and the judge is asked any further danger
4. E.C.M. being performed with enough pressure to break the spine as well as the ribs.
S. A judge telling a team leader you should talk to me not the patient. And another telling a competitor: There is nothing wrong with the hands; you needn 't treat them.'
These are but a few instances, and to see this sort of thing being condoned is most discouraging when one tries to teach that the judge should be ignored for most of the time, and should only be told what is found and asked about pulse and breathing.
First aid competitions are meant to be realistic training sessions; not to turn us into puppets. Coventry P. Rothwell
from E. W. Pope , Divisional Officer
In reply to the letter published about the motives of the Brigade in South Africa , first the Brigade out here is more than willing to help any person of any raGe not only in rendering first aid but also in teaching it. Some of the keenest members are from the non-white sections, so have no fears about the Brigade not living up to its mottoes.
As a member of the Brigade in London for 12 years before emigrating to South Africa, I was also worried about how I would 'fit in '. I have been made very welcome here and have already been Toped-in to run a cadet division. All I can say to people who wish to cause unrest is: Don't condemn until you know the facts. I'm just as proud to be member of the Brigade in South Africa as I was to be a member in Eastern Area, London District Johann esburg E. W. Pop e
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations . Although readers may sign published letters with a pen·name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
from S. C. Bishop, PRO Warwickshir e Central Corps
Have just received my R ev iew for December and noti ce t h e v ery good article Mountain Rescue by our Mr. Hobbs Congratulations!
their President, and my opposite number. After a good deal of discussion it was decided to give the usual first aid course of six lectures. Dr. Alfred Thomas, Division Surgeon to the Ambulance Division, kindly promised to be responsible for these and to add an extra lecture on street acciden ts to this course.
This has proved very popular and the lecture was attended by some 50 people (girls from the Naval school) who 1 hear may now join St. John, and young men from the Post Office. It was good to see so many young people in the audience. Dr. Thomas hired a film on street accidents from Guildford and the lecture lasted for over an hour ; it was appreciated for its information and the cheerful manner in which it was delivered. I thought the idea might be useful to other divisions. We intended to enlarge on this next year.
Haslemere Iris Railing
from J. E. Dane, Chairman Croydon Centre SJA
John King, assuming a role of critical authority without stating his credentials, writes that he is disturbed by the quality of the correspondence following the article by Mr. W. Williams , Commander SJ A.
The phrase about humility indicates that his remarks are directed against the letter written by my wife in support of Mrs. Lafferty's views; and his implications are that these ladies have no qualities of leadership and management based on training, ability and experience .
Mrs. Lafferty, as we know , is quite capable of speaking for herself, but I will say that it is because of all these qualities that she has attained her rank and is selected each year to be the information officer at the Brigade Finals competitions in Croydon.
been a centre of St. John activity, Association and Brigade. She has many years of practical experience as a class member, secretary, organiser, demonstrator and instructor, training new members for the Brigade and other organisations.
Although the Danes cannot claim so many years of service in the Brigade as the Laffertys, they can say that they now have a total of five generations of first aiders in the family tree.
It can also be said that the friendship between the Laffertys and the Danes established in the City of London in 1936 has jointly added a total of nine divisions to the Brigade
It would be interesting to know what practical steps John King has taken to ensure the continuance of our organisation.
To add the touch of humour he requires, I enclose a cartoon published in 1925 in 'First Aid' (a forerunner of the Review) when I was a corporal, which could be entitled Rank and Dignity', and raise a laugh today as it then did. It will be noted that we were not quite so 'rank conscious' in those days as we wore our stripes on one arm only.
Croydon
from Miss K. D. Wilson, Divisional Officer
J. E Dane
I agree with David Curtis (Review, October) that it would be impracticable and even impossible to train everyone in first aid. However, perhaps some basic essentials of first aid could be taught in schools, just enough to ensure the injured or ill person is not made worse by the wrong action.
In reply to the l et t er fro m Bi ll J o hns o n on R etiring Age, I always knew Cove ntry was a progressive ci ty. We have se ve ral retired ' members still active - among them a young 70+ who h as just completed ye t again his 1,000 dut y hours per year. Sorr y , Mr. Johnson - it' s the old story of not bo t hering ; so meon e i n hi s division or corps did no t want to bother to do anything a bout it. The Green Bo ok (Regulations!) lay s down the pre ce dure. Coventry
from Mrs. A. M. Walker
S C. Bish op
One is constantly reading about spo n sored walks by cadets a nd others, and I cannot help feeling that, admirable as these may be , they are rather a waste of energy which co uld be ch a nnell ed into a more useful activity whilst still raising money
Members and their folk from all Districts are grateful for her help.
As she and her family have a total of 167 years service in the Brigade, there are few questions she cannot answer.
My wife states that she has been connected with the Brigade for fifty years. P articipating in and being an observer of its activities for half a century has given her an inside knowledge of its history equalled by few. All her married life her home has
Possibly the field could be a little wider than mountaineers , underground workers and motorists and should include certain people in industry, but again it need not be a full course but just the essentials ; for as Mr. Curtis says many people tend to go beyond their capabilities and a little knowledge can be dangerous. There is definitely room, though, for selected people and those showing interest to be fully trained and more public courses could be arranged and advertised. This is something which could be considered by the new St. John Ambulance centre formed from the merger of the Association and the Brigade, if and when these are formed.
Workington
from J. E. Entwistle , PRO Blackpool
AND BERT from First Aid, March 1925
K. D. Wilson
A number of my colleagues who served in the Middle East during the last war brought to my notice a paragraph in your story Mystery in Malta' , October Review The paragraph reads , as your sailor was trying to get rid of the donkey , 'Go on!' 1 goaded it. Go on - Imshi!'
The word 'Imshi' caused some amusement The translation I am told means 'go away', but the troops very loosely translated this into , off And , more laughter , the word 'Imshi' was printed on the fly papers.
Noting that you have been in the area I assume that you know to what use this word is put and wrote it with tongue in cheek. Naughty, naughty.
Blackpool
A. M. Walker
It might not be so spectacular, bu t would it not be mor e useful for sponsors to support odd jobs for old peopl e, such as shopping, a litt le gard en ing , or any light jobs found to be neces sary? They might even rai se more mon ey, for J am sure a good many old people would b e only too glad to add a token amount to that of the sponsors, whatever the charity being collected for. !llord
from Mrs. Norman Railing, President, Haslemere Nursing Div.
At our 1969 Presidents Conference I asked if I might have full backing and encouragement from headmasters on giving extra information and instruction to the public in regard to street accidents. In fact , the same kind of help that headmasters gave us when we started 'The Kiss of Life' cam paign, which pwved such a success some yea r s ago.
The Commissioner-in-Chief Sir WiUiam Pike replied th a t the subject of accidents wa s very near his heart, and that Haslemere Nursing Division had a free ha nd to work out a plan at this year's annual general mee ting. J ca ll ed a joint meeting with the ambulance divi sio n a nd r ece ived much help from Dr. Rolston
'O'er, Sid. Don't they glitter?'
'Yes all right, Bert - but don't be so familiar'
J. E. Entwistle
Edit: I'm glad to hear the lads of Lancashire followed the story so closely. When I was very young our family lived just outside Cairo and I was later told that the first word I spoke was 'Imshi' - to the Arab servants, who no doubt taught me the word. But now I know why the relations between the British residents of Egypt and the indigenous Arab began to deteriorate soon after our departure from that country when I was about 2Yz years old. 1 was naughty to the Arabs , 1 agree.
from Ed. Carroll, Private SJA
As a reader of the Review for the past year I have b ee n most impressed by it. I have, however, one suggestion: Is it p os sible to include a pen friend section? The Review is a world-wide magazine and such a section should be most successful. Here is a list of nursing and ambulance members in this a rea who :l re most interested in developing pen friends:
17
Robert Robson, 34 Seaccombes Rd Epsom 3, Auckland, N.Z; aged 16 , private Auckland Amb Div ; hobbies - photographic processing, music, chemistry.
Owen Dunn, 77 The Drive, Epsom 3, Auckland, N .Z; aged 1 2 , cadet Auckland Amb. Div; hobbies - stamp collecting, coins, basket ball, squash, reading.
Eddie Carroll , 21 Wimpey St., Mangere Central, Auckland , N Z; aged 17, private Auckland Amb. Div; hobbiesphotography, reading, model railways, swimming, tramping, camping Auckland, N.Z.
Celia Gruiters, 1760 Great North Rd. , Avondale, Auckland, N.Z; aged 15, cadet nurse; hobbies - feather collecting music reading, swimming. ' ,
Peter Elliot 25 Empire Rd., Epsom 3, Auckland, N.Z; aged 15, cadet, Auckland Amb. Div; hobbies - cricket, cars squash, reading, rugby, music.
Ed. Carroll
from Miss I. M. Bray, Divisional Superintendent
The N.50 Willesden Nursing Division will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in April 1971, and through the Review columns I am anxious to trace any former members of the Division who have moved away from the area but would like to join us in celebrating this occasion. We are planning a church parade and social functions , and would welcome any past members who care to contact me; in particular anyone associated with the Division during the last war, when it met a Willesden Lane, N.W.6.
JOGelyn Palmer, 24 Seafourth Rd., Mangere Bridge, Auckland, N.Z; aged 20, nursing member Auckland Div; hobbies - Scottish country dancing, reading, tramping, music, stamp collecting (2nd-year trainee nurse). 133 Princes A venue, Kingsbury, London, N. W. 9. Irene M. Bray
NOVEMBER 19 1970
AS COMMANDER (BROTHER)
Charles Henry Gordon Bowes, MB, BS.
Brigadier Charles Morgan Paton, CVO, DL.
Surg. Rear-Admiral Rex Philip Phillip s, aBE, QHS, ME, BS, DO.
AS COMMANDER (SISTER)
Christina Thompson, (Miss) RRC, QHNS
AS OFFICER (BROTHER)
Humphn7 Henry Dawson
John Bonham-Carter, DSO aBE, ERD.
Leslie Sydney Walker.
Joseph Henry Wooding.
Surg. Captain Joel Glass, aBE, RN.
Surg. Captain Lawrence Garth Topham, MD, ChB, RN.
Jonathan Ernest Alfred Risbridger
William Charles Moore.
Lieut.-Colonel Walter Derek Hamilton Duke, MC.
Commander Andrew Leslie Craig-Jeffreys, RN.
AS ASSOCIATE OFFICER (BROTHER)
Arthur Saul Veeder, MRCS, LRCP.
AS OFI"ICER (SISTER)
Iris Maud Theresa Haslam (Mrs)
Katherine Sarah Htmderson (Mrs)
Dorothy Joan Markham (Miss), SRN, SCM, RNT, DN.
Dorothy Lily Tuck (Mrs).
Eva Eileen Woolrich (Miss).
AS SERVING BROTHER
Frederick William Head.
James Deas Galletly, BSc, ChB, MRCS, LRCP;
Tom Newlove Bryant.
Frances Charles Roberts.
Cyril Gemge Lang.
Denis Lacy -Hulbert , JP
Leslie Frank Stebbings.
Alfred White.
Cyril Hazelhurst.
George Ernest Vardy.
William Alfred Cokayme.
GarRet Bladon.
George Thomas Eaton.
Henry Maurice Sherwood.
Leslie Alfred John Burt.
Christopher Arthur Ayles. Sidney Taylor.
18
Richard Thompson.
Arthur Charles Bilney.
Bernard Gordon Spencer.
Edward William Frith.
Rudolph Sidney Albert Allen. Harold Ambrose Young. Leslie Eric Gaines.
Edward Frances Noyes. Donald Grigg
George Harry Theobald.
Arthur George Pike.
Philip John Player.
Alfred Charles Allen.
Major James Kilshaw, MBE, TD.
George Holden. Clifford Banks.
Joseph Devanney SEN. Thomas Horace Lyon. Robert Bamber.
Matthew Norris Harrison, MRCS, LARCP.
Cyril Raymond Bird.
Matthew Lewis Dickinson, SRN.
Cyril John Johnson
Francis William Carter. Frederick Bexon.
Walter Harold Champion
William Henry Frederick Llewellyn Bunster, MPS.
Frederick Lewis Latter.
John Charles Lowe.
Henry Ronald Gardner.
Stanley Frank Pateman.
Walter Thomas Alfred Higgitt. William Chaplin Fry.
Sidney John Russell Kirk. Peter Howard.
Clarence Hubert Moon.
LanceLot Kenneth Wills, MA, MB, BChir.
Horace John Timms.
Ernest Walter Crossley.
Reginald Alban Carter. Thomas Kinghorn
Henry Simms.
Jo seph Garner.
Thomas Pinkett
Norman William Grimes.
Stanley Tennyson Wood.
William Noel Cutts.
Thomas James Luckham.
Michael Lloyd-Jones, LRCP, LRFP & S, LRCS.
Stanley Edward Cook. Wilfred Yates.
ACCENT ON ACCURACY (Colour 17 mins)
Distributed by Rank Film Library
Produced by: Ames & Company
This film demonstrates the use of the sponsor's products in urine and blood testing
The panel considered this an excellent instructional film. It is clearly developed , the colour is good, it is accurate, up-to-date and recapitulation of important points first-rate. Within self imposed limits a model piece of filmcraft.
Aud i ence: medical and nursing professions - students and St. John personnel undertaking nur sin g courses
AIRWAYS OBSTRUCTION (1970) (Colour 23 mins)
Distributed by: Allen & Hanburys
Producer: Allen & Hanburys
The film d isc usse s airways obstruction with reference to three patients suffering respectively from chronic bronchiti s, emphysema and asthma. Intended for medical audiences.
The St John Ambulance Film Appraisal Panel which meets fortnightly at Headquarters, consists of doctors first aiders and visual aid experts who offer their services for this important aspect of visual aids It is intended to publish monthly reviews of those 16mm. film s recommended by the panel.
The Panel considered this an ex cellent film well up to the high sta ndard of Admiralty produ ction s It is factual lucid , with exce llent diagrams, and is a model piece of film - craft; in fact, a worthy award winner.
Medical, co mpression workers and sub-aqua enthusiasts.
HYPERTENSION -A NEW LOOK (Colour 18 mins.)
Distributed by: I.C.1. Film Library
Produced by : I.C.1. Pharmaceuticals Division
A new concept in the treatment of this disease using the beta-blocking drug Inderal 80' - showing how it can control blood pressure without causing side effects.
The panel considered this an interes ing film but of little value to an audien ce of first aiders; it is too specialized for laymen. Medical Profession only.
OUR WONDERFUL BODY: HOW WE BREATHE (Colour 11 mins.)
Albert Edward Hyden
Albert Greenhough aBE.
Richard Noel Oliv er.
Laurence Herbert Parn ell.
Henry Jame s Tabemer.
Henry Jame s f:arle.
Frederick George Warren Boyles.
Frank Siviter.
Sidney Per cy Edwards.
John David Morley.
John Teece.
William Edward Alderson.
Fred Higgin s.
William Holyoak , JP.
Andrew John Morri sh.
Douglas ALbert Robinson.
J ames Philip Willsher.
Thomas Henry Done.
John William Grice.
AS ASSOCIATE SERVING BROTHER
Alexander Stone, MB , ChB, MRCS , LRCP , FRCGP.
AS SERVING SISTER
The Lady Westbury.
Jeanne Margaret Mer cer (Mrs).
Doris Sinden (Miss).
Ivy Morgan (Mrs) .
Alice Butler (Mrs).
Lilian Riley (Miss).
Mary Higgin (Miss).
Sarah Brown (Mrs).
Edith Marie Clark (Miss).
Edith Florence Co chran (Miss).
Isabel Sykes (Miss).
Elsie Aspden (Mrs) , JP
Violet Grace Howard (Mrs).
Lilian Edith Filkins (Miss).
Dorothy Harding (Mrs).
Iris Victoria Mills (Mrs).
Doris Jessica Surry (Mrs).
Gwendoline Ayling (Mrs)
Audrey Peacock (Mrs).
Doreen Anne Hunter (Mrs).
Nancie Kathleen Frost (Miss).
Winifred Alice Lee (Miss).
Florence Grace Hayes (Mrs).
Lily Clarkson Butler (Dr.).
Dorothy Alice Nye (Mrs).
This is a good training film, accurate, up-to-date and well-scripted. However , it is intended for medical audiences and is well beyond the scope of first-aiders
Audience: m edical, nursing and medi cal stu dents
DECOMPRESSION SICKNESS (Part 1) (Colour 24 mins.)
Distributed by : Ministry of Defence (Navy)
Produced by: Ministry of Defence (Navy)
The main features of decompression sickness are reviewed an d the urgency and efficiency of treatment emphasized
reviewed by Dr. C. C. Molloy
DRUG DEPENDENCE - 239 (1 - 4)
Filmstrip and guidance notes by Camera Talks Ltd.
This series gives information about the different types of drug dependenc e, cigarette , alco hol , snuff, barbiturates amphetamine, cann abis, heroin , morphia, pethidine, methadone, LSD, S .T. P
The not es for guidance issued with the filmstrips are full, authoritative and very helpful. (There are many ty ping and spelling errors , however.)
'Drug Dependence 239/1'
The first strip is a summary of the series and gives general information on the differen t types of drugs and how the habit starts. The tendency amongst the young is to take drugs fo r 'kicks '.
This part showed that some vi cti ms progress to the 'hard drugs , spend all their money on drugs and leave none over for shelter or food.
Distributed by: Gateway Educational Films
Produced by: Gateway Educational Films
The film u ses a model of a boy 's respiratory system to show t hat our lungs are two ballons like containers nearly filling our chests. It explains how they work and also makes references to the circulation of the blood.
The P anel found itself unable to recommend this film. The d iag rams are confusing and this ov er-simplified film is suitable only for juveniles. Not suitable for first aiders. Young Children only.
'Drug Dependence 239/3'
This strip of 40 frames deals with the psychedelic drugs which are taken purely for strange experiences , cannabis, LSD , mes cali n and methedrine The appearance of these drugs is shown and the effects they have on people. The point is made that people who take cannabis like to convert other people into doing the same. The degenerating effects as well as the psychedelic effects are well described.
'Drug Dependence 239/4'
This strip of 41 frames deal with the drugs which induce true addiction where the taker requires ever increasing doses to get satisfaction The main problem in Britain at the moment is that of herion co mbined with cocaine and the filmstrip is mainly about these two drugs. Others are opium , morphia, pethidine and methadone.
The practices of intravenous injection and using a foun tain pen filler are described , and the effects of lack of sterile precau tions. Recognition by their habits of people dependent on hard drugs from the black market are described. Withdrawal symptoms are discussed and the possibility of rehabilitation.
'Drug Dependence 239/2'
This strip of 30 frames deals with dependence on 'Soft drugs (Barbiturates alcohol and amphetamines).
The relaxing and intensifying effects of barbiturates and alcohol are des cr ibed and their deleterious effects on alertness, judgment and skill. The withdrawal symptoms are described.
The amphetamine and amphetamine-barbiturate series are used as stimulants by jazz musicians and young people. The gradual increase of intake to get an effect may lead to acute mental illness.
In this series a considerable amount of information is condensed on a subject which is little known at present. The approach is calm and scien tific but the con seq uences of drug dependence are illustrated.
The cartoons by John Plumb on psychedelic colours add to the freshness of the presentation.
The series can be recommended as informative and authoritative to all who need to know about drugs. Whether they are suitable to be shown to older school children is another matter. Would they be stimulated to try for themselves ?
Aberdeen - The St. John Nursing Home IN MAY 1950 the committee of the Order in Aberdeen bought the Armstrong Nursing Home It was launched without public appeal and the initial costs were b orne by a number of generous benefactors. For almost the first twenty years of its new existence as a hospice of the Order of St. John it was run by the late Dr. George Swapp , who was warden and the late Miss B Mackie, who was matron, a post she had also held in the earlier Armstrong Home. They had been planning the upgrading of the Nursing Home before their deaths and so tragically did not see these plans come to fruition. When the present development programme is completed the Home will cater for the admission in acute and routine cases of general medical, surgical and gynaecological patients. At a time when nursing care 'at home is no longer feasible, the Home will help fill the needs of holiday relief and terminal care It will seek to maintain the charitable aims of the Order and will continue to provide, in complete anonymity , the amenities of private care for those of moderate means and for those no longer able to afford them. This is made possible by the funds generously donated each year by the Friends of the Association of St. John.
The development programme falls into two stages , of which the first, the upgrading of the Home, has been compl€ted at a cost of £25,000 met entirely from funds raised by the Aberdeen committee. A first requirement was the complete renewal of the electrical wiring of the building and at the same time th.e bedrooms were wired for telephone and television and with a call system linking the patient to the two newly established central nursing stations. Extra bathrooms and lavatories have been restyled and a new waiting area for visitors has been provided. An innovation has been the allocation of a separate room for the matron's own use while another small room has been set aside for the performance of simple diagnostic laboratory precedures. The provision of these extra facilities has involved a reduction in the number of beds from 18 to 15, but the appearance, efficiency and comfort of the Home has been improved.
The second stage of the programme involves the building of an extension. To conform to modern bacteriological standards and also to ensure the greatest possible safety for patients in need of surgery, the committee has found it necessary to plan a new operating theatre with its ancillary accommodation. It is considered important to have a number of single bedrooms close to the theatre 20
itself, for this will ease the nursing of post-operative patients. Incidentally t h is will raise the number of beds in the Home to 25. The extension will cost £ 140,000 and it is proposed to raise this sum by asking for covenants, donation s and interest-free loans repaid over six years. It is also hoped that so me companies or individuals may feel able to make specia l gifts for specific purposes: an individu al room can be donated for £2 ,5 00 , the anaesthetic room for £5,000 and the operating theatre fo r £ 15 ,000 The position of the fund raising campaign on October 31 1970 was:
About 100 throughout attended the SJA the 28th personnel from Province recently annual residential training course for nursing divisions at Bangor. The course commenced with a civic welcome by the Mayor of Bangor and culmina ted in the presen ta tion of awards by Lady Grey, Northern Ireland President of the Brigade. During the course Dr. Norman Nevin spoke on genetics; Inspector Jack Scully, head of the Royal Ulster Constabulary
Drug Squad, gave telling facts on drugs and their effects; Colonel T. E. Field, MB£, explained vi ta l work of the Blood Transfusion Service ; Dr. 1. B. Bridges took head injuries as his su bject; and Princess Chula Chakrabongse brought greetings from Cornwall, where she is a SJA superintendent.
Lady Grey of
(Photos : T. A. Belshaw, Belfast)
Princes Chula Chakrabongse
at re c ent
with Area Supt. (N) Mrs J Cooper Belfast.
Lady Grey of Naunton, wife of His Excellency
The Governor of Northern Ireland and District President St. John Ambulance, handi ng over Long Service Award to ADSO Miss V. K. Hill at the recent training cou rse in Northern Ireland. (Photo: County Down Spectator)
The new Commandery Commissioner of the St. John Ambulance Brigade in Rhodesia, Col. D. H. Grainger, said at a parade and inspection in Bulawayo recently that the Brigade must build up its strength if it is to f ulfil its commitments and play its part in civil defence.
Making his first appearance in the city as Commandery Commissioner, Col. Grainger congratulated the eight divisions on parade on their smartness and bearing and 'even more for the efficiency so
evident in the first aid demonstrations I have just see n'.
He presented bars to service med als to four officers; a 4th bar to Commandery Staff Officer Dennis Frank Phillip s (32 years' service); 3rd bar to Area Staff Officer Geoffrey Charles Whitehead (25 years); and 2n d bar to Divisional Offi cer Clarence Aubrey Hudgson (20 years). Col. Grainger also presented service
Recent inspection in Bulawayo Photo: The Chron icle, Bulawayo)
medals to Cpl. Ethel Wayne and Cpl. Inyambo (each 10 years' service). He presented Grand Priors badges to Sgt. Hilary A llb ury , Cpl. Bruce Sand and Cpl. David Christer and the cadet special 200 hours service shield to Sgt. Hilary Allbury, Sgt. Gordon Shaw , Cpl. Bruce Sand , Cp1. David Christer, Pte. Neville Ireland, Pte. Derek Johnson, Pte. Robert Poxon and Pte Peter Booth.
Winners of the cad e competitions h e din Bulawayo last summer
Parkstone 'A' team, winners of the Abel Smith trophy at Bournemouth, All excadets they are (L to R) Div Supt. J. Lewis, AIM C. Gale, Corp M. Dicker and AIM P. Thompson
DORSET -Wyke Regis Nursing Cadet Division' s annual first aid and nursing competitions took place recently at Weymouth, but owing to the possibilities of a black-out both spectators and cadets were less in number than usual.
However , five teams of four cadets each were very enthusiastic and all teams tackl ed two contests in each section with exce llent results The First Aid cup was won by Nursin g Cadets Jane Taylor, Jane Alley, Anita Hitchcock and April Walbridge. The Home Nursing cup went to Nursing Cadet Lynn Denham, Debbie Holcombe, Yvonn e Bridge s and Pat Alley
Twenty cadets and twenty adults attended the Camp Reunion recently at the St. John Hall, Dorchester when the Commissioner Major G eneral R. 1. Moberly, pres ente d efficiency cups won at th e camp in Wal es la st summer to : Nursing Cadet Fairhall, Parkston e Nursing Division, and Ambulance Cadet Tommy Mil es, Shaftesbury Combined Cadet Division.
Some of the team who demonstrated first aid to Princess Margaret at Lincoln recently : members of Rothley Temple (Leics ) Cadet Division (Photo: P. W. Jac kson)
At Cumberland's Workington Combined Division 's annual presentation supper. Everyone had a great time as (right) Superintendent Richardson and County Staff Officer Miss YOUflg start off the 'Conga'
Transparen cies photogr ap h s taken at the camp were shown by variou s member s including the Commissioner, and after a tea-break County Staff Officer Ambulance Cadets H. F. Knott of Berks, and Area Staff Officer Ambulance Cadets R. Penfold of West Berks showed a film of the c amp they held at Rempston e, Dorset, last August, when tJley used Dorset's camping equipment.
It is anticipated that the 1971 camp will be held tlle last week of July at Shanklin, Isl e of Wight.
LONDON TRANSPORT CORPS- The 17th annual Corps dinner and dance was held on December 5. Attended by over 220 m e mber s and friends the principal guest was Lieu t. Colonel R A. Payne, Deputy District Commissioner, London Distri ct. Mr. Anthony Bull, Corps Pr es ident , proposed the loyal toast. The toast to the Corps was given by Lieut. Colonel R. A. Payne, who spoke of tlle continued good work being performed by corps members.
During the evening, long service award presentations were made to several members by the Deputy Commissioner. The evening concIl!lded with cabaret and dancing_
NORTHANTS-Five member of WeUingborough Victoria Nursing Division, who had served in the division for years received recognition at the division's annual Dinner. They are Mrs. E Gotch, Mrs. S. Gotch, Mrs. O. Neal, Mr s. D_ Oram and Miss W Clark; they were presented 'with the third bar to their service medals and also received a present from Divisional Superintendent Miss S. Thompson When Nursing Cadet Rosalind Wall of Kettering Headquarters Nursing Cadet Division was rushed to Kettering General Hospital seriously ill three days before she was to attend the enrolment ceremony of herself and nine friends, it looked as if she was in for a disappointment But the officers of her division and the hospital au thorities had other ideas After performing th e ceremony at the Kettering Headquarters, County Officer Mrs J. E. Halford went along to the hospital and enrolled Rosalind in front of patients and the ward staff, who had prepared a suitable setting for the occasion.
Irchester council has named a street on a new estate William Warren Street in recognition of the services of Divisional Supt. W. F. Warren to tlle St. John Ambulance Brigade and other organisations in the town.
NORTHUMBERLAND-The Bellwood Cup competition results wer e:
MEN'S TEAMS
1st SJA (City Ambulanc e Division) 164
2nd NCB (Lynemouth Colliery) 158 3rd North'd County Constabulary 150 4th CEGB Stella North Power Station 138 5th Northern Gas Board 129 6th NCB (Ashington Colliery A) 128
WOMEN'S TEAMS
1st SJA (Shiremoor Nursing Division) 141 2nd North'd County Constabulary 135
LONDON TRANSPORT AMBULANCE
CENTRE-A pre sen tation of first aid awards was held at Porch este r Hall Bayswater W.2 ., during De cembe r, together with a dance, cabaret and social.
The prese11tation s, made by Mr. S. J. Barton, part-time member, London Transport Executive, numbered 150 awards gained during the first half of 1970. They included COMPETITION PLAQUES
Peckham and New Cross:Team Plaque - Sister Hutchings Cup 1970
Aldenham: Team Plaque - Gravestock Trophy 1970
Ruislip:Team Plaque - Norman Cup 1970
Aldenham: Team Plaque - Probyn Shield 1970
Chiswick: Team Plaque - Challenge Shield 1970
Northfleet B: Team Plaque - Probyn Shield 1969
Northfleet B: Team Plaque - Gravestock Trophy 1969
D. Keirle:Percy Smith Shield and Replica 1970
Mrs. V. Davies:Billings Cup Replica 1970
Mrs. G. M. Herriott:Webb Trophy Replica 1969
S_ Gill: Label Holders Replica 1969
DIPLOMA - ORDER OF ST. JOHN
W_ S. Renwick (Reigate) Serving Brother
H. R. Harwood (Northfleet) Officer Brother
Dr. P_ A_ B. Raffle (Griffith House) Serving Brother
Leicester Commander L. Lee congratulates three of his bright young men who gained Grand Prior badges Cadet Cpl. K. Seare, AIMs R. Kostrzewski and M. A. Shaw (Photo: P. W. Jackson)
Eight Grand Prior badges were presented to Coventry, Allesley and Radford nursing cadets recently by the County Commiss ioner (Photo: o v e n tr y Eve n i ng Telegraph)
21 Cheshire cadet divisions recently entered a County quiz The happy winners: Crewe ambulance and nursing cadets
CLUES TO CROSSWORD No.2 (71) Comp iled by W A P otte r
ACROSS:
1. Ardent but ineffectual talk for relaxant bath with out water. (3.3) 4. Fever conveyed to man b y milk of cow o r goat. (8) 9. Lost at turn when he sh Quld be at schoo l (6) 10. Break nose. (8) 12. Just the sort of pla c e to take your 10 Across. (4) 1 3. Artist and professor produce radioa c tive seeds for treatment of malignant growths. (5) 14. Final part of alimentary canal. (4) 17 B O in h er vill a can produce shrunken, lump y organ of chro nic alcoholic (3.4.5) 20. Runs r a pid co u rse wi t h severe symptoms. ( 5.7) 23. Blood metal. (4) 2 4. Causative orga nism of diseases suc h as influenza, measles and smallpo x. ( 5) 25. He takes politician for cannabis. (4) 28. Study of the cells of the body. (8) 29 Car runs round Roman ro ad for delicacy (6) 30. Point fo r rapid arrest of haemorrhage. (8) 31. No help possible for corrosive poison (6).
DOWN:
1. Heat bo t h with agitation to lo ca lis e sk in infection. (3 .5 ) 2. The real bones of the thora Gi c cage? ( 4.4 ) 3. Charged atoms of so diu m and chlorine in a solution of salt. (4) 5. Given to relieve seve r e pain by indu c ing state o f stupor. (8.4) 6 . Poisonous sap of Javanese tr ee. (4) 7. Giving dull continuous pain. (6) 8. Bird infecting bu ccal mucou s membran es ( 6) 11. Ru pt u re d tendon f rom a blow on the hand while woodworking? (6.6) 15 C ean cut to open abscess (5) 16 Vegetable micro-organism producing alcohol and 8 Down. (5) 18. Brok e n vial n ea r mild stimulant. (8) 19. Secular bon e r edu ced temp erature of m o u h (8) 21. Spasmodic involuntary inspiration ma y be embarrassing. (6) 22. Derbyshir e neck. (6) 2 6. Add to sign. ( 4) 27. Re ckless eruptio n on skin. (4).
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 1- (71)
Across:
1. Mucou s Colitis; 9. Suction; 10 Esm arG h; 11. Axis; 12. Ulce r; 13. L oi n ; 16. Bread ; 17. Expectant ; 19 Occipital; 21. Lo b ar; 23. Lung 24. Cauda ; 2 6. Peru 29. Inhaler ; 30; Idiotic; 31. ShQulder bl ade
Down:
1. Musta rd poultic e; 2. Cocai ne ; 3. Uric; 4. Co nflu e nt ; 5. L.i.e.ge; 6 to .M.B; 7. Sar.coma; 8. Sphincter mu scle; 14 A.dept; 15. Scalp; 18 Paludrine ; 2 0. Can.thus; 22 Brew tea; 25. April; 27
B.O C. Ho u se, Han1m e r smith W.6.
Queen Mary Co ll ege, Mile End Road, London E.]
Q1.leen Mary Co ll ege, Mile E nd Road, London,E l.
Conway H a ll , Red Lion Square, London W .C. 1.
T h e Spa Room s, The Esp lanade, Scarborough
Kitt Green i-acto r y, Wigan
R ailway Gymnas ium York
Hanover Grand, London W.l.
Not co n firmed
Not confirmed
The Royal Show, Kenilworth
fo'airfield Hall Croydon
Queen Mary College, M il e End Ro ad, London,E.l.
St. George's HaJJ, Liverpoo l
Seymo ur Hall, Seymour P lace W l. (to b e conf rmed)
Not co nfirm ed
Seymour Hall, Seymour Place, W_ I _
T G Scott & Son Ltd., 1, Clement's Inn, London, WC2A 2ED (01 -242-6264 and 01-405-4743)
Cla ss if ie d R ates:
Sem i-di sp lay £3.50 s.c. i. (minimum £1.75)
Non-Trade, 4p per word (m inimum £1.00)
Tr ade, 5p per word (min imum 75p)
Bo x. No. 25p ext ra.
Co lumn Dep th 10"
Pr ocess: Offset Litho
Copy Dat e 8th of the month p rece ding publ icat ion.
Pub li cat ion: 2 7t h of month prece di ng cover date. Agency co mmi ss ion 10%
S.J A.B. Badge Wall Shields , 39s 6d. ; S. J .A.B. Gold Cased Cr -,sted Cuff ini<S, 68s Medal r ibbons 1 S. 6d each r ibbon on bu ck ram for on u n ifo rm 2s eac h r ib bon mounted on pin brooch ; Regulat ion medals mou nted 3s 6d per medal on brooch Miniatu res quoted for - MON TAGUE JEFFERY, Ou tfitter St. Giles Street, Northampton. (4)
PERSONAL - HOMEWORKERS - T ypists, Kni tte r s, Addressers, Etc. " T he Hom eworkers' Guide" Vol 1 gives countless nt r o du ctions to British firms requ iring your services. "Th e Homeworkers' Guide" Vol 2 lists ove r 50 American firms requiring enve ope addresse r s. Both Guides sent for £ 1-0-0.
Ro la nd Press (D ept SJR/4) 38 Crawford Street, London W.l. (80)
fAll-PENS Diaries, Note Pads, Keys, Fobs, Pencils e tc, Gold·stamped Br i gade na me o r Personal names raise fund s quickly-easily. Deta ils- N orthern Novelties, Bradford, 2. (22)
HAMILTON HOTEL
11 Hartington Pl ace (for brochure) EASTBOURNE 33 456 Re s ident Managers : Mr & Mrs E Frobisher Me mbe r s of the St John Ambulance Brigade
Small family Hot e l. 2 minutes
-
SJA girls who between them have put in more thal"l 40 hours a week over the last 4 years helping paralysed patients at the Home for Disabled ex-Servicemen (Photo: Peter Ekin -Wood)
ST JOHN AMBULANCE units throughou t Britain which are using vehicles with more than six passenger seats plus the driver for publi c service , and for which they re ceiv e some f orm of payment will be interested in the recent problems of the Rugby Town Division , as r e ported by the Rugby Adv e rti ser : The West Midlands Area Traffic Commissioners have decided not to take any action on the alleged breaches of the ] 960 Transport Act by the St John Ambulance Brigade in Rugby, but the future of the voluntary service remains in doubt.
Becau se the 12-seater ambulance which take s disabled people t o the Ho skyn Cripple Centre and the Society for Mentally Handicapped Children' s centre receive a mileage allowan ce from Warwick shire County Council it is deem e d t hat t he vehicles are being used as public serv ic e vehicles for hire or reward.
Under the Act , use of all such vehicles if they have more than seven seats , or are c onstructed to carry more than seven people , even if some seats are removed , is illegal unless they have public service vehi cle li cen ces.
Commission er s cle r k Mr. H. Halliley said thi s week : Although th e commissioners agr e ed there was some contravention of the Act it wa s de cided to take no a ction'
But M.P. Me. William Price commented : What I propose to do is ask the Minister of Transport to say quite specifically that this sort of alleged criminal act either will or will not be overlooked'.
Mr Halliley said that a traffic examiner, in the course of his duties , received information from someone , and on examination he discovered what he believed to be a contravention of the Act.
He interviewed members of the St John Ambulance Brigade and th e n submitted a written report to the commissioners at the beginning of December.
You try to use a bit of discretion and that is what we have done in this case. We have put no pressur e on the local authority'. Asked what would happen if the servi c e c ontinued and an informant complained to the commissioners, Me. Halliley commented : 'The whole purpose of the Act is to protect PSV operators who are in business for themselves They carry passengers for a living and they might complain that their trade was being taken from them I cannot say that no action would be taken under those circumstances'.
Mr. Halliley said that if the ambulance brigade wanted to know ex a ctly where they stood , a full explanation would be given by the commisssioners' area representative
Mr. Price said: 'There appears to be some misunderstanding , but there is no doubt that a complaint was made to the Traffic Commissioners
'From the inquiries I have made I am satisfied that because of the tecnnical nature of the breach and because of the type of work oeing carried out , no action would be taken now Or at any time in {he future
At th e same time I understand the reluctance of the organisation to take any chance. I think that is perfectly understandable'
Mr. Timothy Berry , the County Welfare Officer said that when they heard that the ambulance brigade were likely to be in some difficulties they decided to look round for alternative arrangements if in fact the present scheme broke down I should not be too happy if that took place because of the ex c ellent service we have received from the St John brig a de ov e r the years ,' he said.
'But we are doing what any prudent person would do when something he is counting on is likely to break down , and that is look round for &n alternative'
Mr. William Price M.P has not y et put his question to the Minister of Transport. Th e Editor.
THIS DIVISION OBTAINED ONE FOR £260 - AND 5000 HOURS OF WORK
by A. H. Aiken (Divisional Officer, Nelson Transport Combined Division , Birmingham)
THE IDEA of a mobile first aid unit is not new to our Division. In 1955 our members converted a Brigade exhibition caravan into a surgical unit, as it was then called This unit was used at all large Public Duties in Birmingham until the end of 1969.
Much thought was given to a replacement vehicle and it was decided that a coach would be the most practical conversion possibility The proj ect was given the blessings of our County Commissioner, who also agreed that we should dispose of our old unit and towing Landrover, the proceeds going towards the Gost of the new unit.
During October 1969 the Division purGhased a 1954 Bedford S.B type, 35-seat€:r, petrol-engined coach from a firm of civil engineers who had used it for five years as a 'troop carrier'.
Work on the vehicle commenced immediately. The seats, luggage racks , side and roof interior panels were stripped out prior to wiring the lighting and power circuits for mains 240 volts electricity. This electrical work was carried out by one of our ambulance
members , Ted Taylor. Repanelling was then co ntinued under the guidance of oUI 'chippy'
Ambulance Member Cliff Clift. Labour was provided by memb ers of the Division under the leadership of our Superintendent, Charles A. Rann, who claims to have been an apprentice to the Queen's carpenter. (It couldn't have been for long )
A considerable amount of work was needed on the rear of the coach, which was badly rotted due to water leaking through a broken window. The rear quarter windows were removed and replaced by aluminium sheets and the wo od work replaced. While this reconstruction was taking place we labourers attacked the exterior with filler, wet and dry sand-paper, elbow grease, and at last - paint.
In his spare time 'chippy' Cliff Clift wrote many letters to business concerns explaining the project and asking for help with materials and eq uipment required.
The Division is indebted to many professional and private people who have very generously offered material and
advice without which we could not have completed the proj ecL
With the panelling comp lete the ceiling was covered with polystyrene sheet and painted with white emulsion; th e remainder of the interior was finished in white gloss paint.
At this point we came across a mechanical problem - a jammed valve in the engine. But managed to free the valve by methods which would have reduced a mechanic to tears Then more trouble struck. This time two valves stuck (revenge?), and we decided that the head of the engine had to come off and new valves fitted. I found myself promoted to mechanic (possibly because it was the dirtiest job) and the engine head was removed to be decarbonised and revalved by a local plant-hire concern. This was the only work we did not do ourselves. The engine was reassembled and thankfully fired without further troub le. It was now April 1970 and the unit was needed for the Birmingham Spring Festival on May 16. From then on we worked on the unit seven days a week (instead of five), and a real sense of urgency prevailed.
The next problem was fitting the fresh water tank , which was mad e to our di.[i'l1ensions and donated by a large ]!I1ldnstial concern. The tank , seven feet iong and with a capacity of 120 gallons, dropped into place in the boot compartment with 1/8 inch to spare!
The vehicle was beginning to take shape. Outside, its top half was painted white and the lower black. (How's that for originality ) Identification transfers from Stores and plain white letter transfers bought locally completed the exterior. The interior was now complete with light fittings and curtain rails. The ladie s of the Division , under Divisional Officer (N) Mrs. Brenda Aiken, made the curtains and sorted a nd stored first aid equip ment in the cupboard units we had built and fitted.
The water system was fitted with an electric pump to feed a five gallon header tank, which supplies an electric water heater and cold water tap at the stainless steel sink unit, donated by the manufactur er.
A lot of midnight oil was burned during those last two weeks, but on May 16 I was ab le to ease the unit (8ft 6ins wide) out of the Headquarters' gate (9ft 2ins) and drive to Cannon Hill Park Birmingham, for it's first public duty where in 10 days we treated 222 patients.
The was a very long hard and sometimes worrying job but - make no mistake about it - to see our unit finished and operational gives us all a great sense of achievement and satisfacbon.
The cost of the conversion and the equipment installed was £260, and at least 5,000 hours of work by th e members of one Division.
The Unit was designed, bearing in experience gained over 15 years WIth the old unit, to give privacy and as required, with two dressing for sitting patients and two larger CubIcles with examination couches. All cubicles have their own curtain scree ns and venetian blinds.
Light
All light s are 2 40 volts electric. Main ltght ing being by four 20 inch 60 watt situated in the roof-lights to aVOId Festricting he adroom. Each cubicle has .[ts Own 12 in ch 60 watt tube and a fle.xlb le angle-poise light between each paIr .of dreSSing and examination cubicles. Allltghts have their own switches.
Power
At pres en t a mains supply is taken a nearby source but this restricts Slil:Uil.g of the un i t and negotiations are lI1dependent.
(continued on next page)
Plan of the new mobile unit
First aid equipment
We carry a wide range of bandages, sterile dressings and adhesive dressimgs. Small wounds are cleaned with pre-packed sterile medicated pads and we have Savlon, Witch Hazel, and Lead and Opium in plastic spray bottles. The other lotions and liquids carried are mist mag. tricil, mist kaolin, glycerine, thymol co. mouthwash, hibitane 5%, white liniment , and Dettol as a general disinfectant. Formalin is used as an antiseptic spray to keep the unit fresh. Equipment carried includes a stethoscope and sphygmomanometer which all members of the division are learning to use to take blood pressures. Although a small amount of sterilised suture equipment and injection sets are carried it was considered that as our duties are all within minutes
of hospital and we have an am bulance on duty with the unit at all times, drugs and equipment only usable when a doctor is present are not necessary. We do however have a locked medicine cupboard a nd can easily carry this material if the situation should arise
Oxygen
Oxygen is at present carried in a standard 'Novo x' set but this will be replaced with better equipment when finances permit.
I hope that I have been able to show that a Mobile First Aid Unit is not just a luxury enjoyed by the privileged few but something within the reach of any Brigade unit who are prepared to work and without having an enormous bank balance
Thanks. County Surgeon Dr. A Llewellyn Lloyd hands a bottle of 'bubbly' to Div Sup. C A. Rann, organiser of Nelson's labour force 1970 Birmingham Show the Lord Mayor was shown the new unit by the County Commissioner and County Nursing Officer (Photo: Birmingham Public Works Dept
WHEN THE MERGER was decided upon nearly three years ago, the majority view was that it would be unwise to force the pace initially; General Memoranda have up till now been drafted with this very much in mind. It was, however, apparent at the Foundation Conference last June that this view had changed and most people considered that the time had come to accelerate the rate of progress. A detailed examination into this and other merger matters raised at th e Conference has, therefore, been undertaken in the Headquarters in recent months and I have decided that we should now work to the policies set out below.
Aim
The unifi cation of the former Association and Brigade Foundations into a single Foundation to be so organised as to provide an increasingly efficient and a better understood service to the public
Title
There will be no change in the presen t titles except that I want 'St. John Ambulance' to be regarded as the name of the single Foundation and used on all normal occasions.
The terms 'Association' and 'Brigade' remain in the St. John Ambulance semi-official vocabulary as descriptive of th e two main functions - indeed they have been too long associated with our work and are too well loved for their suppression to be generally acceptable. 'Association', therefore, will continue to be regarded as the synonym of training and 'Brigade' will denote generically the organisa tion and activities of the uniformed members.
Membership
Membership of St. John Ambulance is accorded to all who supp ort or undertak e work for the Foundation. The privileges of membership include the right to wear the Order tie and to join St. John House.
Readers of the Review are, I know, keenly interested in all matters affecting St. J ohn Ambulance whether dealing with overall policy or everyday working. I w elcomed, therefore, the Editor's suggestion that General Memorandum No.8 should be reproduced in this issue.
I hope readers will let the Editor have their views on the way the merger is progressing. I am always most interested in the Review's correspondence columns and find your ideas and opinions most helpful.
Sufficient guidance for merging at County level is contained in General Memoranda already issued. It may, however , be inadvisable to be too specific for the intermediate and local levels in view of the varying circumstances of each individual County The main point I would make at this moment is that to achieve merger at any level requires one overall authority, be it a commi ttee or an individual , and a common h eadquarters building.
Centre and Divisions will continue as the operational units but the more their work can be co -ordin ated and their policy controlled by one authority - individual or committee - the more nearly do we attain the aim I have laid down. It has , however, to be remembered that each Centre will usua,11y operate in co njunction with over a dozen Divisions not necessarily all from the same Area. A three ber Association organisation in exact parallel to the Brigade lay -out will , therefore, be the exception so that the contro lling authority may be required at either the in termediat e or local level and not invariably at both Counties should examine their internal boundaries with a view to making Association and Brigade areas of responsibility coincide wherever this is desirable. Where either Association or Brigade areas impinge on another County and Counties wish to adjust these, they should negotiate a nd in the event of failure to agree, refer the matter to Headquarters. It would howeve r be a mistak e to press this too bec;use all our boundaries are likely to go into the melting pot when decisions are taken on the Maud Report.
A unified organisation as outlined will help an effective county admlll11stratlOn and in presenting a common fro nt that will greatly assist an e00nomic and efficient use of resources in pe f sonnel, build iings and equipment, as we n as WIth public relations and with fund-raising.
The target date for merging at County level will be St. John's Da y, 1971 and at intermediate levels (where applicable) December 31 1971.
I do not intend to lay down a date for merging at local levels as there is infinite variation in the sit uat ion in different places. I must, therefore, leave it to Commanders SJA to examine and decide what best to do at each local level.
Unification an d conso lidati on of funds for the overall benefit of th e one Foundation makes sound financial sense; it is also to be remembered that all funds held are the property of the Order. The basic principle will, therefore, be that where there is a single co ntrolling authority th ere should be merged funds
Every operational unit will, however require its own money for the day to day running of its own affairs ; and social funds must be kept separate from monies donated to support our service to the community Sub-accounts within the main account would generally seem to be appropriate for t hese contingencies.
The policy should be to ensure that units receive the benefit of sound investment and that the best use is made of available capital. There is no intention of confiscating the money they have worked exceedingly hard to raise.
To the extent that existing Association and Brigade Regulations prohibit these measures they will be amended
A 'County President St. John Ambulance' with overall responsibility for presidential affairs has recently been appointed in one County which would seem to be a logical development of merging and in its best interests.
There will obviously be various different ways in which to organise the remain-
ing Presidents and Vice Presi dents within the County and views on this will be sought at the Presidents' Conference in October.
Constitution and Regulations
Existing regulations are now in the course of revision and I intend that these should be issued in loose lea f for m in sections as follows:-
Part I
Part II
Part III
Common Procedures Association Regulations Brigade Regulations
Apendices covering common matters such as honours and awards and the acquisition of property.
It will take some months before the constitution and regulations will be ready for publication but I hope that the outline of my policies given above will be sufficient for you to work on in the meantime. If further amplification is required, please let me know. I would, therefore, be grateful if Commanders St. John Ambulance would now finalize their plans and let me have by St. John's Day 1971 their recommendations for merging below County level.
Recommendations for those Counties to which a Commander St. John Ambulance has not yet been appointed can probably best be drawn up by a small joint planning com mittee r ep resentative of the principal S t. John interests in the County and submitted to me by the chairman. It would be helpful in these cases if I could be sent early notification of the likely nominee for C.St.J.A.
Finally , I would again remind Counties of the very considerable help they can get with their planning from the Chairman of St John Councils who I know are only too willing to assist.
Chief Commander 5
PERI-TONEAL DIALYSIS - A NEW AUTOMATIC MACHINE TO TAKE OVER FILTRATION FUNCTION
by H. A. Bugg (AND, SE Area, London District)
A CONSIDERABLE ADVANCE in the battle to save lives of kidney-failure victims has been established by the design of a new automatic machine for taking over the filtration function of the kidneys. This technique is known medically as peritoneal dialysis.
Each year about 7,000 people die from kidney malfunction, about the same number as are killed in road accidents. Until recently this caused little stir as nothing could be done about it. But with present techniques some 2,000 of these people could be kept alive if adequate staff and equipment were provided.
For the past 10 years peritoneal dialysis in hospital has been carried out manually, which involves a considerable infection risk and takes up valuable nursing skill and time.
Apart from transplant surgery, the main other method used to combat renal failure is haemodialysis, which involves th@ use of costly machines which are in short supply.
Peritoneal dialysis is essentially a life-saving procedure for use where the patient has no possibility of kidney transplant or haemodialysis; for example, he is outside a kidney centre or where there is no bed available in such a centre It can be used for weeks or months in these cases. It can also be used to control less severe renal failure where a patient can be controlled by diet and by dialysis once a week.
The kidneys are responsible for controlling the chemical and fluid balance thro ugh a filtration system which removes unwanted material from the blood. Kidney failure can be caused by shock, injury, infection, poisoning or disease.
In dialysis a process whereby substances of small molecular size are allowed to diffuse through a semipermeable membrane whereas substances of a larger molecular size are prevented from doing so - a small
puncture is first made in the wall of the patient's abdomen through which a plastic catheter is inserted into the peritoneal cavity. Dialysing fluid, warmed to the body temperature, is then run into the cavity (inflow) from one-litre packs suspended at high level. The dialysate is allowed to remain in the cavity for a controlled time (dwell period) , then drained from the cavity (outflow) into a low level receptacle. On average a patient on peritoneal dialysis will receive 50 to 100 lit res of fluid each week administered in this way. Inflow and outflow are controlled by the new machine. Should too much, or not enough, fluid circulate a logic system actuates a warning and the machine will stop and notify the nature of the fault The composition of the dialysis fluid is shown below.
The main advantages of the machine over the manual procedure can be summarised as follows:-
1. Reduced infection risk to the patient.
2. Nursing staff are relieved of repetitive and time-consuming procedur es.
3. Patients have expressed preference for the machine as the fluid is maintained at correct temperature (fluid too hot or too cold causes discomfort).
4 . The machine does not disturb the patient as much as the nurse workin g around the bed.
5. The proced ure will function automatically irrespective of distractions in the hospital ward, which might cause interruption in a manually controlled dialysis programme.
6. The volume of fluid for each inflow is controlled.
7. The various functions of the machin e are accurately timed.
8. There are cost savings in fluid , nursing time and skill.
9. The equipment is easily understood by nursing staff.
It would be wrong to pretend that the machine has no disadvantages. For iutance, the machine will occupy va]uable bed-side space, particularly important in a close bedded ward. Disadvantages, however need to be viewed in th e context of the particular situation.
Although the machine costs £ 1,300, running costs are low. The Sefton per ito n ea 1 dialysis machine is in production and has been clinically tested over the past 12 months; one is being used with popular success in the author's own hospital.
THE DIAL YSING FLUID PERITOFUNDIN I (10 LITRES) -
1.5 % Dextrose - infusion solution for peritoneal dialysis - sterile and pyrogen free.
One litre contains:-
Sodium chloride
Calcium c hloride. 2H20
Magnesium chloride. 6H20
Sodium lactate
Dextrose
Water for injection to 1, 000 ml
Acknowledgements:
The author wishes to thank Mr. C. J. Peachey , of Whiteley Lang and Neill Ltd.
The 'Sefton' machine in use
AIRBORNE DIABETIC
from A. A. W. Weston, Feltham
Q: The following query comes from flight-deck crews who face the problem of having a diabetic aboard who may go into a coma and the captain has to decide whether it is safe to go on to his destination or divert to another airfield.
With a known diabetic aboard who can ill the flight, what are the odds on 1t beIng : (a) hyperglycaemia (b) hypoglycaemia?
When it is known that a person is unwell from (a) or (b) then providing that the 1S conscious the appropriate action of gIVmg sugar will be taken.
If however the person goes into a coma should the captain divert to another airfield or has he a certain amount of time to reach his d.estination? If so, how much time? Aboard What action can be taken apart from the. patient in the C0ma position, earmg In mmd that oxygen is always available?
A.: this day and age (1971) a known under treatment is not likely to be suffenng from diabetic coma or pre-coma he had recently developed severe and temperature (or unless the patient is a pregnant Woman near labour) because he W6l1d rl be on treatment of insulin or appropriate even if doses of these were insufficient thIS state of hyperglycaemia would be unlikely to develop. However, hypoglycaemia or low
blood sugar is common in many diabetic patients who are difficult to stabilize and occurs eit her because of this difficulty or from accidental ov er dose of insulin (wrongly measured), or when the co rrect dosage has been applied but the patient has experienced difficulty with taking breakfast or a meal at the usual 20 to 30 minute interval.
In any case, providing the patient is conscious and can swallow, the appropriate action is to give sugar or glucose, as it will benefit hypoglycaemia and do no harm in the case of hyperglycaemia - except possibly to cause vomiting in the patient.
If a patient were to go into a diabetic coma or hyperglycaemia aboard an aircraft he is unlikely, as a known diabetic to come to much harm in the spa ce of two hours, but after that each succeeding hour becomes more dangerous without proper care and attention
May I suggest you refer to 'The Essentials of First Aid' pages 116-117 which amplify the instructions given within the First Aid ManUal.
from: P. J, Webb, Westbury Q. One morning about two years ago on entering the factory gates I saw a man collapse; I went immediately to his aid together with another man and we found that he had stopped br eathing and no pulse could be felt in the
corotid region, and his eyes had a glassy staring look. Oral resuscitation and external cardiac massage were started immediately and eventually the man gave signs of returning consciousness. He was taken to hospital and the diagnosis was co nsidered later to be petit mal (minor epilepsy).
Were we correct in applying the above treatment?
A. Undoubtedly the correct treatment was given in this case: a man in a state of collapse and to all appearances not breathing and being pulseless From the appearance he could well have been moribund but the prompt giving of oxygen (air) and cardiac stimulation was the correct treatment from the first aid point of view.
The fact that the diagnosis revealed a condition affecting the nervous system is not the first aiders concern; he has to deal with the crisis on the ground not in its later stages.
from: F. G. Isaac, London
Q As there is no mention of any method in the Joint Manual, are we correct in proceeding to teach the use of 'built-up' dressings when there is a projection from the wound?
A. There is no objection to continuing to use this very useful dressing, particularly in cases of compound fractures or one in which much foreign matter has become embedded.
Since the announcement of the appointment of Princess Anne as Commandant-in-Chief of Ambulance and Nursing Cadets, it was nice to hear that Princess Margaret is now Vice-President, St. John Ambulance
Princess Anne makes an extended tour of Headquarters and St. John Gate on February 23.
I am sure readers will be as delighted as I was to hear that MaIj orie, Countess of Brecknock DBE, Chairman of the Review Management Board and until her recent retirement Superintendent-in-Chief of the Brigade, has been appointed Dame Grand Cross of the Order.
She will be invested by the Queen at the Investiture of Knights to be held at Buckingham Palace on March 3.
From a V AD member I received the following:
'It is now 25 years since the corridors and wards of the Royal Herbert Hospital, Woolwich, resounded to the cheerful chatter of V ADs - 25 years since they assembled in Herbert House for meals, 'off duty', and gossip. Looking back at tho se V ADs they really were an extraordinary hardworking, dedicated lot who, in spite of wartime conditions and nursing difficulties, managed to get a great deal of fun out of life.
'During last autumn at the VAD Club , fifty-five members gathered for a jubilee lunch. Some of thos-e present had been unable [0 attend previous annual gatherings and were hailed with great joy by their former friends and colleagues. The hubbub and laughter rose to a crescendo as drinks served prior to the meal began to prompt old memories and ' stimulate half-forgotten anecdotes!
Bristol: Dr. Roberts retired as Cty. Sgn. - no successor yet appointed.
Ceylon: Mr. Mallory E. Wijesinghe appointed Chairman of Council.
Guyana: Mr. Irving Crum-Ewing, OBE appointed Chairman of Council.
Headquarters: Mr. W. H. L. Gordon appointed to the establishment of Budgetary Planning as Personal Advi ser to Chief Commander - it is the intention to rename this office 'Revenue, Expenditure and Control Office' (short title: REXCO)
London: Rear-Admiral Royer Dick has been invited to form a St. John Council for London and ha s accepted the appoin tment of Chairman.
Nigeria: Dr. J E. Adeto xo has resumed the appointment of Chairman of St. John Council which he temporarily relinquished after his accident in the early part of last year.
Wilts.: Major A. Carr appoint ed Commissioner. Capt. Chilton has accordingly relinquished the duties of Commissioner but continues as CSt] A.
'After a pleasant lunch and coffee in the spacious lounges of the club the guests talked themselves to a standstillto be revived by the welcome arrival of tea! Refreshed, the renewed friendships blossomed till it was time to catch trains,
planes and buses people having travelled from all parts of the Br itish Isles
'None of this would have been possible without 'Challis' - she ha s provided th e continuity over the years, kept the unit together, organised the annual tea party , kept up-to-date with the new s, is always there to receive the guests, unchanging , and with that same good-humoured kindness that we appreciated so mu ch all those years ago. To her we owe a debt of gratitude and a small presentation was made by Major Tanish on behalf of those present. The toast - 'T he Roy al H er b ert' - the thanks -' To Challis'.'
GPO FIRST AIDER
When Mr. James Philip Willsher, of Cockfosters, Hertfordshire, was admitted to the Ord e r as a Serving Brother recently, the acting telephone manager of London's Centre Area , Mr. John Gregory made the presentation of th e ce rtificat e of appointment. He thanked Mr. Will she r for his long service to the Post Office Ambulance Centre and the first aid movement.
James Willsher , 59 , bec a me a Post Office first aid instructor in 193 8; in 1957, he was appointed an honorary member of the St. John's Ambulance Association and became a lay instructor of the Association five years later. He went on to gain a London County
BY THE EDITOR
Council teaching certificate in first aid and the Gold Medal of the Post Office Am bulanc e Centre.
FORTNIGHT ON THE RHINE
Wanted - four young Brigade Members: two men and two girls, aged 17 - 25, to accompany a party of disabled young people on a holiday at Konigswinter near Bonn from August 14 to 28 1971. The visit is sponsored on the German side by the J ohanniter Un fall Hilfe, who are arranging free accommodation an d entertainment a t a splendid Youth Centre whi ch has its own transport and a boat on the Rhine. The British Council will pay 75 % of the air fare to Cologne, leaving only 25 % (about £8) to be paid by individuals This is the only expense involved once members have met at the airport. Some knowledge of German would be an advantage.
Applications to Principal Administrative Officer (N), Headquarters St. John Ambulance, 1, Grosvenor Crescent, London, S.W.l
73-year-old Albert Howgill , of Norton, Teeside , an SJA member for 25 years with more than 6 , 000 hours of public duty , was unable to atte nd his investiture as a Serving Brother of the Order in London recently, so Brig. C. C. Fairweather, Commissioner for North Riding, handed the award to Mr. Howgill after an inspection of the Division at Norton that ends well.
TOGETHER
Divisional Officers R. J. Phillipson and T. R. Constable, of C93 Shirley Cadet Division (Surrey), both of whom were cadets with this divis ion have been appointed Serving Brothers the Order. They are also both police officers and members of the very successful 'Z' DiVision Metropolitan Police first aid team and have freq uently represented the 'Met' in Nation al first aid competitions. Congratulations , gentlemen.
AYR TO BRAINTREE
often, unfortunately , the public sees w e work of the St John Ambulance only lmie n 1ts members attend functions where they stand by to give first aid and at when they 'show the flag'. But behmcl the scenes, invariably without
Like Brothers - alike smiles See TOGETHER
anyone but those taking part knowing about it , so much go es on. For instance recently the Superintendent of Richmond Nursing Division, Teeside, was asked by the National Hunt Jo ckeys Association if the Brigade could move an il1iured jockey from a hospital in Ayr to one at Braintree in Essex, for further treatment.
An ambulance left Richmond at seven o'clock on Sunday morning for Ayr, picked up the patient, and brought him to Darlington, where he stayed overnight at the Memorial Hospital. At seven o'clock on Monday morning, the ambulance was at the hospital again, and the jockey was taken on to Braintree, where he arrived at five in the afternoon. 9
This must have been a somewhat tedious journey for patient and ambulance crew, but the spirit of the Brigade prevailed, and everything went smoothly.
This is but just eme instance of the unseen work of the Brigade, and of the useful service it gives.
The story, I'm 1'lleased to say, made 4Jh inches in the paper. And the local PRO quite rightly passed this piece cot routine - but very important - news on to me. It's a few of the threads that make up the pattern of the carpet of SJ A coverage.
Britain's rnedieines rnarilUEacturers tell me they provide employment for over 80,000 men and women, but in fact pharmacists are iR a minority in the pharmaceutical industry. The many different career opportunities in this £300-million industry are oulined in a new 32-page booklet, 'A career in pharmaceuticals', available from the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Indust r y , Information Services, 162 Regent St. LORdon, WI R 600.
This well-illustrated publication contains a number of profiles of young people now at work in this industry, which has laboratories, offices and factories in almost every corner of the country . The bookle t is aimed at graduates and school-Ieavers and conveys the story of a viJgowl!ls expanding international industry with excellent employment conditions and an unrivalled record of good labour relations.
10
So if you're interested in joining the industry, this is where to start your enquiries.
As I prepare this edition of the Review the postal strike has been with us for two weeks and already I find that I am short of St. John news from throughout t he country, including our regular column from Scotland. As and when the material
does arrive, it wilt be published in later issues. Meanwhile let us hope that this spot of industrial trmuble w!il1 S00n be
I thought the BBC/TV documentary on the Red Cross Society shown during January most interesting in the way it posed the infinite problems faced by charitable organisations working in the field of international relief - whether this be in areas of natural disaster civi[ war, or just plain war. The administrative , political and financial problems sprung in this programme from the premise: Do such organisations do enough, and do they do it quickly enough?
The need to find and charter air transport to any part of the world , to collect together needed supplies, to get permission to enter the country concerned, and then to establish an operational organisation on the spot - at present this takes from 7 to 10 days.
Some people in the programm e especially a French relief team in Amman - feel that this is far too slow, and a third of this time would be more appropriate for a disaster relief operation.
But how could such a speeding up of the mechanics of this type of operation be achieved? Only , I would have thought, by having permanen t disaster bases throughout the worldsay, half-a-dozen strategically positioned , manned by local and key personnel of the Internation al relief organisation , and equipped by the base-country. The cos t of each base would be born e from a general fund and by the countries covered by the base
The speed factor should then be solved; and as all countries would be 0€fiJdally involved in t he organisation t!h. e:re should be little scope for political suspicion.
In rur al America, particUilarly the eastern states of the U.S. and western Canada, where commercial ambulance and rescue services can be as expensive as medical or mortuary services, vo lun tary ambulanc e and rescue organisations with professional key men are maintained financially by the local communities. In Bliitis h Columbia, as mentioned in Overseas New s in the January Review, such a service as well as the fire brigade is financed by each household in the area paying five dollars a year. They are literally a local d isas ter organisation.
In cidenta lly , the British Red Cross Society has a new Chairman, ex-diplo mat Sir Evelyn Shuckburgh, GCMG, CB, and a new Public Relations Director, Mr. Arnold Bloomer - we wish them both the best of luck.
A TV-man, John Bedells JP of Bromley, who is Thames Television's manager of Education and Religion Department, is SJA's S.E London's new PRO. Mr. Bedells joined the Bromley Division as an ambulance member in 1964 , and a year later was transferred to the Training Department, London District's headquarters As a staff officer he has now moved back to the South-Eastern Area .
As a retired Naval LieutenantCommander, Mr. Bede Us was a pilot with the Fleet Air Arm during the war, and saw service in Malaya and Korea before leaving the Navy in 196 0 to tak e up his career with Thames
Two SJ A cadet divisional officers, I hear, were among 16 young men and women PRO John Bedells at TV -work
AWARDED (Photo: Post Office) from the Post Office who met members of the Post Offi ce Board in London recently before going to a presentation at Buckingham Palace.
The party were winners of the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, and for the two SJA members - Patricia Seward, of Rugby, and John Bennett, of Welshpool - this meant travelling to Post Office Headquarters where Sir Richard Hayward CBE entertained them to lunch after meeting Mr. G. H. Vieler (MD Posts) and Mr. Ed ward Fennessy CBE (MD Telecomms). They went to the Palace in the afternoon.
Patricia , who is 21, has been in the Brigade for 10 years; as a cadet she won the Grand Prior's badge, and now as the
officer of Rugby Nursing Cadet Division she has a ca det strength of 36. Her father is the Superintendent of Rugby Am bulanc e Division. John Bennett , 22, is Superintendent of the Welshpool Cadet Division , which has 30 cadets and juniors. During his six years with SJA he did duty as an ambulance member at the Investitur e of the Prin ce of Wales.
Sir Richard Hayward said the Post Office Board 'were truly proud of the efforts made b y young members of our staff' and wanted to do all it could to encourage youth activities in the Post Office which 'made such an immense contribution to the civic life of the UK'.
by Sartor Resartus*
THE NEW STYLE uniforms were announced in St. John Review for February 1968, and, as can be seen in photographs in any Gopies published since that date, most divisions have gone over in part or altogether to this new style; in fact, in most divisions, although new recruits are kitted-out in the new style many of the older members have a new uniform which they reserve for the 'dressy occasions' and an old-style uniform still wearable on the 'messy occasions' such as rugby duties autocrosses, etc.
The following comments are, except where otherwise stated , the personal opinions of an ambulance member who has both an old and a new uniform and who has given much thought to the points raised herein.
First of all, the writer thinks most of us were pleased to see that the new uniform did not depart too much from the traditional outfit which we were all pleased to wear. The new uniform - as supplied by Stores - is very well-made and, if care is taken in ordering, well-fitting and attractive.
The following comments are offered for consideration by colleagues and for whatever action is considered advisable , eventually, by the authorities.
Cap
In the writer's opinion this is the most uncomfortable headgear he has ever worn, excepting , only , a 'tin-hat'. After comparing it with a naval peaked cap, St. John officer's cap, professional ambulance man's cap and many others the opinion is offered that this is due ( as was the case with a steel helmet) to the head-band being inflexible and unstretchable. Moreover, the crown is. neither waterproof in itself (I know there is a plastic cover - I have one!) nor proof against soiling by perspiration or hair-dressing - which many try to avoid by inserting a piece of PVC sheet or x-ray film; the ventilation eyelets are not effective because they are too close to the crown; there should be an impervio u s sweat-band to prevent the white plastic band (which was a great improvement) going yellow (again a strip of x-ray film or photographic negative inserted behind 12
the leather band, is an improvement many have adopted) ; the spring-steel strip supporting the frontal badge is not sufficiently well anchored (I can recall at least half-a-dozen caps where this defect had to be remed ied) and presses hard on the forehead; the chin-strap, a mere plastic film, is deco rative only and could not serve to secure the cap in a strong wind (in fact, it is better not to interfere with it lest the slits for the buttons tear out) ; a white label should have been sewn into the inside of the crown so that one could print one's name ; consider the confusion after a n indoor meeting ! (Of course, one can print on the leather band - but it won't stay long).
But the greatest disadvantage is that its shape is not suitable for service in circumstances where transport of a patient by human crutch pick-a-back, fireman's lift or any form of handset by two bearers is used ; invariably someone's cap is knocked sideways or tipped off altogether - very undignified!
For this latter reason, mainly , as well as accommodating the longer hair-st yles preferred by the younger man and to be more suitable for stormy weather , it is suggested that a form like a ski-cap (as worn by Canadian S t. John), or the new rail wayman's cap, would be both serviceable and smart and would not be too great a departure from the traditional form. This style would suit alike the middle-aged face (with bald head) and young face (with longish hair). See fig I and I a. A beret is inadvisable - it lack the distinctive white ban() and is not very good 'uniform' since it is worn at all angles of slouch and, anyway, look s very untidy when worn with long hair - when it Fesembles granny's mob-cap!
Jacket
The new standard pattern, with lined jacket as well as sleeves and an inside wallet-pocket, is a great improvement on the old completely - unlined jacket. It is to be hoped that the waist-pockets are made of better material than was the case with the old coat since one's pockets did
* Edit: Or to you and me 'the tailor retailored'the cloak our author/artist prefers to wear.
work of an instant to turn back the cuffs and so present a working-surface which could be sponged clean. I am sure any 'working man' would approve thi s suggestion; service chevrons - which in the nature of things have to last three years between replacements - would be saved from soiling and fraying, and turned -back cuffs are serviceable and business-like ; the Georgian dandies unbutton ed their cuffs to preserve their lace ruffles - which is why we still bear buttons on the cuffs of our 'civvy suits!
Trousers
not last as long as the rest of the jacket. The deletion of buttons on the pocket flaps is an improvement, especia lly when medals are worn as the button used to prevent them lying flat and scratched them.
For obvious reasons, one would not wish to propose a radical departure from the newly-adopted standard, but, since we all tend to get portlier as we get older, a jacket which fits well across the shoulders could be strained by strenuous effort, such as stretcher-lifting, etc, and it may well be the case that box-pleats from shoulders to waist would cater for such effort especially when the jacket fits rather better than when it was first made! An improvement the writer would very much liked to have seen in the new jacket would have been split cuffs secured by press-studs and lined with white PVC , the lining made a little longer than the sleeve so that about inch showed normally to give the effect of shirt-cuffs. (Ma ny service dress-uniforms have this false shirt-cuff). See fig. 2. Then , whenev er a dirty job has to be undertaken - or there is a likelihood of blood-stained hands, etc. - it would have been the
Bhck bara/Aea (t-:e. sir!7llar'
One hopes the white piping of the new uniform is easier to get white again from mud , blood, etc., or the rub of rubber boots. Personally , one would like the white stripe to be wider to distinguish our uniform from many transport, etc., uniforms. Would an attached strip of, say 1,4-inch plasticated material be feasible? (Such as is used for nurses' and cadets' service chevrons). It WOUld at least, be
The (Young Ide,/On hem the su" ,shines.
replaceable if badly-stained. U12200, piping - white, for ambo members' trousers, is not the answer; one dare not un pick the outer seam of each leg! Preferably , the white strip should be on a backing-strip of black material which when replaced would be a fairly-simple sewing job.
Although the new standard provides a self-supporting top, an e1asticated gore in the back seam would cater for stooping (and middle-aged spread!)
To facilitate summer rig (shirt-sleeve order) a hip-pocket , or even two would make up for the loss of five pockets whenever the jacket is discarded, and, if we are intended to wear U08400-belt for hot weather wear - (which seems a good idea if only to keep the haversac in its proper place) the trouser-top should provide lo ops, one on each hip and one centrally at the back, (or one each side of an elasticated gore), wide enough for the belt-buckles to be reeved through. This is necessary, not so much for the belt to support the trousers, (the elasticated top should suffice for this) but to prevent the belt working up one's back every time one stoops.
Presumably, this 'old faithful' is on its way out. We never knew whether to wear our equipment inside it (when we looked like ruptured penguins!), or outside (when the cloth haversac and its contents got saturated in heavy rain, and, in any case, could not be held in place with the old leather belt which, for most of us was not long enough to go outside the greatcoat, even if we let it out to the last adjustable hol e - anyway, it got in the
way of the three-button half-belt of the coat.)
Presumably, the new terylene/cotton raincoat U01900, with or without detachable nylon lining, replaces the greatcoat and is intended to fit the figure reasonably-well with the haversac (now weatherproof) worn outside. (How does one keep the haversac in place on the left hip?). I imagine that the forecast in the Review of February 1968 - that it would be for all ranks (both sexes) - has been over-ruled by someone who had studied elementary anatomy and foresaw that such an universal garment could not possibly serve. Anyway, the am bulance and nursing raincoats are now separately listed in stores lists. See fig. 3. Those of us who have greatcoats will p,resumab ly still wear them on rough duties but , no doubt, Dress Regulations will bar them for dressy occasions. They had wonderfully-accommodating pockets, said he wistfully.
The new plastic haversac has many advantages over the cloth bag, (which was dirty after once wearing), BUT, it is larger than it need be for its present purpose and does not conform to the shape of the body as did the cloth haversac so it sits awkwardly on the left hip. It could have been reduced in width with advantage (by eliminating the space between the water bottle pocket and that for the first-aid pack) and made correspondingly deeper. An often-voiced criticism is 'one can sponge the haversac but how does one clean the white cotton webbing loops which attach it to the shoulder-strap?' These should have been plasti cised also . I intend to coat mine with white paint! The haversac shoulder strap is far too flimsy. It may keep in position if one has shoulders like a hock bottle but with most of us it wrinkles into folds and moves close up to the lapel. See fig. 4. A belt of whi te duck webbing with a sliding buckle adjustment for length (as used to be sewn on to the cloth haversac), or the present material re-inforced by a double thickness where it crosses the collar bone, would be preferred by most of us. Could it be plastic, too?
Several of us find difficulty in arranging a sure attachment to the haversac, especially the taller brethern who have had to cut out the sewn pleats at the ends in order to achieve sufficient length.
Anyway, there is a need for each of us to have at least one alternative shoulder-strap (to allow for washing and wear-and-tear) and as far as I can see, the shoulder-strap does not seem to be listed as a separate stores item.
FIRST AID PACK The pocket pack, F44000, useful in itself, is hardly likely to suffice for Public Duty. Those of us who have the pattern 134 kidney tin (or plastic box) will no doubt continue to cram it into the plastic haversac as well. However, some form of hand-carried case appeals to most of us, but it is rather a nuisance when transport of injured has to be undertaken. Now we no longer carry a water-bottle on the right hip, if the plastic haversac is a ration haversac (as Stores list so describes it) a similar first aid haversac on the right hip would be useful (but we would be getting back to the 'donkey-with-panniers' look of the old days) See fig. 5.
WATER BOTTLE. It is still advisable to carry a fair amount of water on some Public Duties (how else can we apply the 'magic sponge' treatment to a wounded gladiator in the Rugby arena?) so those who have them will not throwaway their water-bottles. But will Regulations give a positive ruling whether those with old style uniforms shoYld wear one with the l€ather belt on dress occasions?
There never was any doubt about the medals or ribbons one is entitled to wear over the left breast-pocket (although they are often seen in wrong sequence), and it seems proper that such decorations as railway medals, etc., should be allowed over the right pocket. Many of us have conflicting views as to the advisability of displaying other embiems. This member feels that any such should have a very close relevance to ambulance work, such as NHSR badge, for example; he doubts whether Civil Defence instructor's badge was ever truly permissible (since these could have been for any subject including, or other than, first aid).
Possibly, a S t. John lay instructor's badge should be permitted, but, if one seeks to admit a badge for higher or advanced first aid one opens up a controversy and with it considerations such as other badges for first aid proficiency, such as Fellow or Mem ber of Institute of Certified Ambulance Personnel, etc. Personally, one thinks a case could be made out for admitting blood donor's badge since this is a desirable ancillary service - but we cannot all be blood donors, for a variety of reasons There is a lot to be said for keeping the uniform clear of extraneous bits and pieces, especially if it involves making holes in the jacket, which would be a pity if the badge had to be taken off; this also applies tc the home nursing cross on the left cuff -a sewn-on badge or clutch-back button would be preferable to the present metal badge.
NCO chevrons
Many of us feel that there would be big advantages - including enhanced recruitment appeal to the present gene};ation - if St. John got away from military terms such as NCO, sergeant and cor1'>0!al. (This wom1d help 8J lot of estimable military gentlemen, who join county staff, to avoid the mistake of behaving as though we were service 'other ranks'.) It is a personal view, but, since
corporals do not have any assigned role, why not drop this grade and call former sergeants and cm:porals by some such title as section OF squad leader, giving such 8J l:torizonta1 bar below the county badge on the upper arm in lieu of chevrons? This would bring us more into line with professional ambulance men, firemen, male nurses , etc.
One hopes that Dress Regulations, understood to be under revision and soon to be re-issued, will give clear instructions covering new and old styLe uniforms. For example, with old-style uniform does one still wear the leather belt or get a cloth belt (which would be of different material to the old style jacket)?
Finally, to meet conditions where, in a major civil disaster, one is called away from one's employment without the opportunity to get into uniform or even put on one's cap for identification, also to provide a cheap, shower-proof overall which can be folded and stowed in the plastic haversac on Public Duty, it is suggested t ha t Stores Department produce a tabard to the following general specifica tion:
Of the form in Fig. 6, made of black, waterproof; woven terylene cloth, easily slipped over the head and fastened down the sides with press-studs. A fluor escent orange yoke over the shoulders would be useful in the dark.
A number of these could be stowed in the divisional ambulance or to kee'lD at their places of employment so
that, at an accident scene, the identity of those entitled to be present would be clearly established. If some bore the
AND NOW AN IDEAL UNIFORM FOR
by Barbara McMahon
Cadet Sergeant Bebington Division
THE DRESS should be pinafore style but instead of having a 'V' neck it should be rounded. The white collar of the blouse worn under the dress would cover the neck like this:
There would be no breast-pockets on the uniform, as they would now serve no purpose.
The St. John cadet badge should be kept on the right side, as it is now. The Division's name and County would be shown on the left shoulder (girl guide, boy scout style):
The dress should have darts in the back (see Fig. 1), which wjil give it more shape. A black belt of the same material as the dress should be worn (present-style belt) and a 'kipper' tie (regulation only). This tie would be white , of ordinary type, and worn in the normal way The Proficiency badges (a new style which I've yet to design) would be attached to the tie in regulation order. The back of the tie would be attached to the belt with press-studs , like this:
Tln.is win the tie from 'flapping about' when on duty, parade, etc.
The Grand Prior's badge would be worn as at present.
legends DOCTOR or PARTY LEADER the difficulty of knowing who was in authority would be easily so lved
Knee-length white socks would be worn, with or without flesh-clour tights. The tights should be allowed to be worn without socks. Shoes would be black.
The indoor white caps should stay the same, but the out-door hat would be girl-guide style in black.
The uniform would be the same material and colour as the new nursing cadet uniform - light grey. The tie and belt would be the same material as this but in different co lour s.
The shirt should be bought with the uniform to ensure no different styles are worn. The shirt should be of bri-nylon , as this is easy to wash and cool to wear.
The grey cape should be unchanged, and white cuffs would still be worn when sleeves are rolled up.
Such is my ideal uniform.
Since writing this I have had second thoughts about the colours I have suggested. Perhaps readers have their own ideas on this, and on my ideal uniform in general. I feel our present uniform could do with a 'face lift
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations. Although readers may sign published letters with a pen-name, writers must supply their name and address to the e€litor.
from Lt. Col. R. B. Robinson, CSO Cadets
I have just read Area Trg. Off. Frank Frewin's excellent article in the January Review 'On Teaching First Aid'. I have alwa ys had a keen interest in the technique of teaching and was brought up, in this respect, in what I believe our Chief Commander would agree has long been the leading tradition in this field: the School of Artillery.
It is rare for anyone who considers himself to know a good deal about a subject to have no dissent whatever from an article so comprehensive as this. I do not believe I could pay the writer a higher compliment than to say that there is but one single thing that I disagree with. This is where he approves of continuing to talk to the class while writing on the blackboard.
One of the 'principles of instruction' in the school I refer to is 'Don't talk to the blackboard', and when Mr. Frewin says 'If you continue to talk to the class while you are writing', he postulates an impossibility - while writing you cannot talk to the class, you can only talk to the blackboard, however much you raise your voice.
In my view, instruction must by physically directed at the class. If it is direGted away from them, and equally if it is directed obliquely at them over the speaker's shoulder, it does not 'get over' as it should. No sir, while you draw or write, turn your back candidly on the class and keep silent -a few moments' relief from your voice will not come amiss anyway.
Then stand aside, let them see the picture or message and tell them about it - again, speak only while facing them and keep quiet while you look at the board to position your pointer on some feature, etc. Naturally, if it takes a long time to write your message or draw your picture, either you should have done it beforehand and kept it covered, or you should break off from time to time and turn to the class to explain.
No doubt there are instructors who can get away with talking to the board, just as there are those who can afford to commit any of the faults named in the article. But these are not ordinary mortals and unless one has proved to oneself and to the world that one has the touch of genius one must abide by the rules or pay the consequences in bored, inattentive or uncomprehending classes.
But I cannot finish without reiterating my admiration for Mr. Frewin's article, which itself teaches by the best method: example. Everything is said briefly and in a telling and interesting manner. I for one have learned much from it. Pewsey, Wilts. R. B. Robinson
from R. A. Radley
For the past year I have been a regular reader of The Review and have found it a stimulating publication. The most interesting section has been the correspondence columns, for here one is able to gauge the feeling of our membership.
I have, I feel, detected two distinct attitudes: the complacent/lethargic and the anxious. The complacent/lethargic are content to leave well alone and the anxious are looking 16
critically at ourselves in an effort to improve us and to leave a sound heritage for our younger members and the next generation.
There are seven Objects of the Brigade, as shown in Brigade Regulations, of which I suggest the first and the the seventh are the most important, since it is essentially on these t hat the efficient practice of the other five depend. Both these objects refer to training, without which our whole movement will flounder; and it is the standard of our training which not only makes me anxious but horrifies me.
I have been a member of st. John for about thr ee years and have not grown up in its traditions as I have, for instance , in Scouting (of which movement I am also an active member). At the same time I am no longer a 'student reactionary' (if I ever was!) My chosen vocation is teaching and hence my interst in our training standards and methods becomes apparent.
For many years now it has been considered that expertise in one's subject is sufficient qualification for teaching, and one then taught a subject rather than a child or adult. Happily this situation is changing and legislation has recently been introduced banning 'unqualified' teachers from our schools. This , not unnaturally, has caused a great deal of soul searching in the profession, but that is a different problem. The Advance Party Report of the Boy Scout Association (now The Scout Association) recommended that all leaders should undergo training organised by the Association. This was accepted and in the forseeable future all Scouters will become trained.
The situation in St. John leaves much to be desired. State Registered Nurses (of whom my wife, a divisional nursing officer in agreement with these remarks, is one), who may be expert in nursing techniques , are entrusted with the teaching of the nursing syllabus. Doctors, many of whom on their own a dmission know little of first aid, automatically qualify to tea ch this. Those members of the Brigade who are keen enough to undertake stu dy for the lay instructors certificate seem, in my experience, to have a valueless piece of paper, valid for only three years.
In 1969 I spent some three months attending a course for intending lay instructors, being assured that this was the only way in which I could qualify for any training of members , even though I had four years of full time training in education and seven years experience behind me. On completion of the course I mistakenly assumed that I would then be able to assist in various aspects of training. To date I have had no opportunities of teaching, although I have offered on more than one occ asi on Yet in the same period I know of other members of my own Division, without even a lay instructors certificate, who have undertaken training sessions for members of other organisations. I understand, on good authority, that this is perfectly in order. Hence my contention that it is a valueless piece of paper.
In my present post I have to undertake various weekend duties which necessarily restrict my St. John activities. I feel that the teaching of first aid would be a task I could undertake willingly, but the opportunities are lacking. Is it not time that we, as an organisation, considered critically the standards we set in teaching and training and perhaps moved into line with current educational thought?
My thought on this subject may indeed sound as if my 'dignity really matters', but in all humility I can say this is not so. My fears are that unless we update our teaching methods and standards we will fall, having lost our best cadets (our future, no less) to other movements with more to offer.
Lingfield, Surrey R A. Radley
AH - AMBULANCES!
from M. Newbold, Divisional Officer
I was delighted to read the article on ambulances in the January Rev-iew. I feel such an article is well over-due, as the Brigade is primarily concerned with modern transport methods. It is immediately noticeable , hovever, that such names as Herbert Lomas, Dennis Brothers and Pilchers and the fine vehicles they produce for this specialised market received no mention, and I hope this will be rectified in a follow-up article.
r would also like to see a page devoted to ambulances already in service with SJ A, together with a write-up specification of the vehicle , and the work undertaken , etc.
Would it not also be an idea to try to find the oldest operational SJ A ambulance? I know of one in Birmingham which is still in service and going strong at 20 years old. (Unless anyone has a horse-ambulance tucked away somewhere!)
West Molesey, Surrey M Newbold Edit: Will try to get more information from other ambulance manufacturers; and meanwhile what say you , Birmingham? And everyone else - SJA ambulances new, old and middling. Let's hear about them.
from Miss K. D. Wilson, Divisional Superintendent
At our recent county training day as well as lectures on 'Control of infections in the Community' and 'Survival against the
Elements', the members were split up into syndicate groups to discuss five problems. Three of them were major disaster topics , one 'How St. John members could best be deployed in hospitals', and the other was about the First Aid Manual.
As there were some discussions recently in the Review on the Manual , readers may like to hear the opinions of thw sy ndicate group, which was asked: 'If you were responsible for first aid publications in this country, how many and what type of handbook would be required? Would you present the whole subject in one compendium or would you sub-divide it for various users (ie in the home, industry , police and hospital s, e tc)?'
After an hour's discussion our members came to the following conclusions.
1. In general there are too many first aid publications on the market ; they give differing treatments and sometimes cause confusion.
2 The present manual is not approved of, as the subjects are not clearly defined and there is too much referring from one chapter to another.
3. There should be only two manuals:
a) A book for under 16-year-olds, called either 'The Cadet', 'The Cadet First Aid Manual', or 'First Aid for Junior and Young People'. But the title 'Essentials of First Aid' should be scrapped , as the word essentials was regarded as misleading. The group thought this word would be more useful to describe a basic course for beginners and the general public.
b) An adult manual containing:
Section 1 - Essentials of First Aid (at present called Initial F.A ), to be more simple, with only anatomy and physiology , and to be used at public classes and for first year certificates.
Section 2 - Higher First Aid, to be longer than present course, with more detail than above and aimed at members of first aid organisations; to be used for all re-examinations.
The new £ 12 , 000 he a dquarters of Norfolk SJ A was topped out recently by the County Commissioner, Brig. F. P. Barclay , when he tossed a half pint of beer on to the roof.
He told county staff and members 'I am sure this building will stand for many
generations and form the hub of the first-aid work St. John does in this county.
Brigadier Barcl ay thanked all those who had helped raise over £7 ,000 towards the new headquarters, which had four offices for the four county staff officers , and a ground floor garage and store for ambulances, a mini-van and trailer.
After the topping-out, the County Commissioner topped-up everyone's glass. Good health, SJA Norfolk.
Section 3 - Advanced Knowledge , which would incltlde pres en t specialised first aid such as occupational health, and some of the nursing procedures omitted, as these can be learned fr@m the Nursing Manual, if required.
It was also agreed that there should be more pictures and diagrams to illustrate the treatments, as visual aids are of great value. The group felt that the manuals should be advertised more, and be more readily available in the book-shops for sale over the counter, instead of having to order them.
Workington Kathlyn D. Wilson
from Miss Winifred I. Telling, Nursing Officer
Before a recent trip to Australia I had no idea that such a magnificent building as the Order of St. John National Building of the Priory in Australia existed. It just so happened that on my trip I lodged right opposite the building for one night , and seeing the lights in the building that evening I opted out of the City Tour by Night and wandered across the road to make myself known. I was m.ade very welcome, and given a conducted tour of this 'palace', including the kitchen and ladies 'boudoir', which is something out of this world, complete with chaise-longue!
During my rapid excursion round Government House next morning, I could not help noticing how many of the gentlemen depicted in the portraits were wearing their St. John insignia and/or had KStJ among their 'initials'.
While in Sydney I was taken to a divisional meeting at Gladesville, but unfortunately I was not able to make contact in Melbourne, or Hobart and Launceston in Tasmania H Q. in Singapore looked lovely at 11.30 pm, but I don't think I would have been very welcome, especially as it was a Bank Holiday.
Maybe on future trips I shall have more time and opportunity to knock on doors and also explore some of the local divisional activities, evidence of which was visible along the routes we took in the shape of badges and plaques on doorways, roadside huts, etc
These tri ps abroad certainly help an old stick-in-the-mud lik e myself to appreciate the world-wide influence of the White Cross, an d [ wish more of OUF members could participate in thls shrinking of dista nce. It is so comforti.ng when visitin g overseas to know that there are hundreds of friends just round the corner, even if you have never met them personally.
I did not notice any evidence of St. John in Thailand during my 2-day stay in Bangkok , but if I get back there in 1972 as planned, I will certainly have a good look aro und to see what I can dis co ver a bout first aid cover at their very 'English' type public functions. Now I must come down to brass tacks again, and get on with my own divisional problems for 1971 Salisbury, Wilts. Winifred I. Telling
from C. W. Hipkins , Area Superintendent (rtd)
As an active first aider for some fifty years an d a r eader of publications since the days of 'First Aid' to the pr ese nt Review , I would like to comment on the paragraph referring to SJ A in the Review publicity brochure - 'which teaches first aid to 25 0 000 people in British industry each year'.
The present Rev iew, with few exceptions, and I refer to results of industrial finals (Gas, Electricity , R ailway s, Poli ce, etc) fails to contain information about these various in dustries.
The Brigade activities contribute to the bulk of t he reading and these have little interest to non-Brigade members. As a suggestion to increase the circulation why not include the work of the othN bodies , who make up the greater numbe r of the 250,000 first aiders and on which the Order relies to a larg e extent for the first aid movement?
Epsom, Surrey
C. W. Hipkins
Edit: Review first aid articles also apply to first aiders in industry ; but otherwise I quite agree. The problem is to obtain the material -I should welcome it.
OVERDRAFT is a distressing condition associated with modern life and rising prices. It varies considerably from mild attacks of a few days duration to perma:m.ent financial malfunction. To neglect it can induce deterioration which will worsen considerably over the years, and it may even become cO l1lgenital. In short, it needs watching.
While the basic cause is nearly always lack of funds, the condition can be seriously aggravated by overspending, miscalculation (arithmetical incompetence), crisis, and in severe cases by gross mismanagement (financial incompetence).
Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis is simple.
(1965) (Colour 15 mins)
Distributed by: British Medical Association
Produced by: Slough Corporation
The prevention of poisoning accidents in the home. Shows a fatal accident to a child through consumption of drugs, left in an unlocked car.
This excellent film, accurate and very much to the point gets its accident prevention message across with clarity and force. Well-produced technically this film although 5 years old, still has great value especially so considering home accident statistics.
Specifi cally recom mended for use after the St. John statutory course lecture on poisons but well could be screened universally.
DISASTER (Black and White 35 mins)
Distributed by: Disaster Exercise Film Fund
Produced by: Disaster Exercise Film Fund, 38 Clifton Rd, Rugby
This film underlines the problems involved in training first aid and rescue services to deal effectively with a major incident. It takes as its main theme the need for precise planning and co-ordination between the various bodies concerned in any incident and describe s the manner in which each should play its part as a co-ordinated whole.
The panel considered this a sp lendid film. Integrity and honesty are qu a lities notably apparent when this exercise openly admits to c onfusion - many military experts too have found terrain causes dislocation of plan.
Although the film is not up-to-date it still pr esents an accurate picture of organisation needed for Disaster contingencies.
This film is of great value to all organisations affected by disasters.
HILLCRAFT Part 4: SURVIVAL IN THE HILLS (1968)
(Colour 19 mins)
Distributed by: Explorer Films
Produced by: Visual Aids SCFL
Advice on how to survive if lost or injured. First aid for victims of exposure and ways of avoiding such dangers are explained.
The panel considered this a well made instructional film · it is lu cid, informative, logical and well produced. Our medi cal are not in entire accordance with first aid procedures shown within the film but no doubt post viewing discussion would clarify.
Audience : All youth organisations, mountain rescue and specifically to audiences interested in climbing.
HAND SPLINTING: A NEW METHOD (Colour 22 mins)
It
LIFE SAVING TECHNIQUES Parts 1 and 2
(Colour 8 mins)
Distributed by : Explorer Films
Produced by : Royal Life Saving Society
The requirements of the Bronze Medallion examination of the Royal Life Saving Society introduced in 1969. Various life-saving holds, resuscitation, surface dives, etc. are shown.
This well produced film, combining good slow-motion shots, clear commentary and easy to follow instruction suffers by cramming too much detail in its limited running time. It should be used only to recapitulate on extensive skilled instruction on land and in water.
Audience: Those preparing for life-saving tests swimming clubs.
(Colour 22 mins)
Distributor: British Medical Association
Producer: Texas Institute for Rehabilitation and Research
Oral hygiene for aged, disabled or handicapped persons whether at home or hospitalised including an explanation of how to make simple oral device s from readily available materials.
The panel considered this film far too long and detailed for such a circumscribed subject. However , it will be valuable to those co ncerned with the handicapp ed; it has no great general interest.
Audience : medical, nursing , physiotherapists , etc.
and White 8 mins)
Distributed by: I.C.I. Film Library
Produced by I.C.!.
A team of first aiders demonstrat es the correct method of handling and treating such an injury from the initial approach to the eventual removal of the patient on a stretcher.
Inability to perform public duties will often be present.
The likelihood of an attack can be assessed by simple observation of cheque books and statements but the best evidence is usually obtained from bystanders, such as bank managers.
MaAagement
Re-assure those responsible: especially bystanders.
Control expenditure: it avoids aggravation.
OFganise assistance by donations, subseriphons and even personal loan.
Waste no time: obtain professional advice with the least possible delay
Do not move the casualty: it only leads to an increase in interest rate.
The casualty will begin to look strained, with red marks among its 18 figures, which will increase rapidly unless action is taken promptly
Whenever possible arrange for a transfusion or injection of money (formally gold was frequently used)
Bank to bank transfer may be attempted by those holding a certificate of advanced knowledge.
Warning: Do not neglect this condition. It can lead from simple embarrassment and lack of operational ability to permanent insolvency (Sterling's ague), bankruptcy and eventually loss of liberty (incarceration)
Col. W. L. R. (Winky) Benyon Headquarters Appeals Organizer
Edit: I assure all readers that Winky iRenyon gave me this sound piece of first aid advice befoFe the price increase of the Review was even being considered. And the increase did not stem from his promptings. At least, not consciously.
Producer: Wexham Park Hospital
semi-professional film portrays in carefu l steps instruction in splmt making for deformed hands and it clearly achieves its purpose; it is factual and interesting
Limited to those directly engaged with the topic orthopaedic staff and therapists, etc.
INTENSIVE CARE REGIME FOR NURSES (1966)
(Colour 26 mins)
Distributor: Central Film Library
Producer: Burton-on-Trent Hospital film shows patients who are cri ti cally ill and how the special umt group is equipped to maintain complex treatment and concentrated nursing; it also deals with organisational problems.
We?-produced , accurate and still up-to-date, it shows the of intensive care in moribund cases Although a !echmcal , film for specialized audiences it yet proves most uliieresting to laymen
Audience : medical, nursing, medical students and advanced fust aiders.
The panel considered this film was probably a good one a decade ago - then it well could have been thought logical and the black and white photography, dated cmema techmque and lack of improvisation tend to date the film· but even more important the first aid tec hniques shown therein an d NOT in accordance with current teaching; It should be WIthdrawn from circulation. Not recommended for exhibition.
(Colour 30 mins)
Distributed by: Petroleum Films Bureau
Produced by : Shell-Mex and B.P.
This film shows the influences of population economic growth and te chnology on Brita in's landscape.
The panel considered this film a visual delight and a good pieceof general although somewhat kaleidoscopic However , although It poses the question of pollution it offers very little for educational use public exhibition or for dISCUSSIOn groups it is first-class and also topical.
Audience: From an envirqrnental health view-point universal.
LONDON S.E.
C 121 Trocadero Am bulanc€ Cadets were joined by a party from C 148 Peckham Ambulance Cadgts in camp at Pentewan Saflds, St. Austell, for the first two weeks of August.
The party of 2 Superintendents 4 adult helpers and 11 cadets arrived at 10.30am Saturday after travelling overnight , to find that the pile of luggage and t€nts sent in advance to be on the site were non-existent! Day wore on, and by early evening it was ascertained that our luggage and tents had found their way to Plymcmth! The cadets had now been in uniform 24 hours but were, on the whole, treating it as a joke. Luckily our precious primus stoves had been brought down by
car, and we were able to provide a hot meal and drink in the evening. By 9.30 pm (ime large marquee and some of the suitcases, sleeping bags and blankets had arrived, and so everyone was under cover for the night Other campers rallied round the party and helped us put up the tent in what was by then almost total darkness. By Sunday evening all luggage had arrived except one tent , which was relatively unimportant , and camp settled down to a regular routine from a very irregular start.
On the first Friday there was a coach outing to Penzance and Land's End, for which we were blessed with a dry day. But for the rest of the camp we had more
170 BU9ks cadets and 100 camp staff, families and other helpers pitched camp for the 25th time last year at Totland Bay, Isle of Wight, from August 2 to 9. The Commander SJA Bucks was in €amp for part of the week, and Miss Morrison, Chief Officer for Cadets, visited (in group upper picture); also in camp was Mr. Richard Smith, former ambulance member, Town Crier of Beaconsfield and current champion Town Crier of England. (Lower picture) Mr. Smith rallies a tugof-war team.
than our fair share of rain except in the first 3 days , when some members of the party managed to get sunburnt, which resulterl illl much discom£OJit.
The Br igade si d e of our activities cannot be ignored. For the formal camp inspection on the first Thursday by the County Commissioner for Cornwall, Rear-Admiral L. A. Bou[woo d th e Brigade flag was flown on our flagpole. Consequently people then came to us with their ailments. 3 cases were transported 15 miles to Truro Hospital by car, and we treated more wasp stings than anyone remembers! Altogether Some 20 cases were dealt with.
On the l ast Friday night we arranged a barbeque o n the beach For this the lads collected wood all week and on Friday morning went out on the local boats and brought back a considerable quantity of mackerel. One of the camp guides laid on a discotheque and supplied a gallon of oil should the wood be damp. It seems that almost everyone on the site attended the 'happening', which was also enlivened by a group of local hippies.
Next morning a group of tired cadets struck camp and then after tea in a local restaurant we all went to see the film Oliver'. Our train did not leave until
10.20 pm and we did this to prevent the lads getting bored . It must surely be the first time a group of 17 Brigade members in fuil uniform have gone into a cinema, paid, sat down, and watched the film.
On the whole camp this year was a success, and for this we must thank Div/Supt. G. F. White and Div/Supt. B. J. Green for devoting so much time to its organisation. Next year we hope to run a much bigger camp in Je rsey
Cadets from Brentford and Chiswick Hammersmith, Acton and Fulham camped for a week last summer on a farm down a nalfTOW lane 2V2 miles from Monmouth The water tap was %-mil e away and everything we needed was brought with us The journey by coach was quite good but tiring (we were caught in a traffic j am on the M4), and finally arrived at the site by 4.30 pm. Tents were put up, stores sorted, pits dug, tripods made ; and after a meal the camp bank and tuck shop was attended to, which gave everyone fresh hop e.
The site was in a pretty setting of the Wye valley , with the river at the bottom of our field; with hot weather all week the daily swim was great fun. Around the site were the hills of the Royal Forest of Dean. Sheep were free to wander through camp, which they did about three times a day; but they got into the habit of wanting to inspect our tents at four in the morning! Cows and horses from the next field also came to see how we townies were making out.
On the first Saturday evening we had a surprise visit from Div. Supt Beavan and Div Off. Jim (we never knew his other name ) from Monmouth SJA to see if we'd settled in O.K., and inviting us to join them at the Mayor's Civic Service next da y. So SJA Monmouth was reinforced at the Servi c e with 19 London members.
After the service three of our cadets were invited to join Monmouth members on duty at a motor-cycle scramble, while our younger cadets joined the scouts camping in an adjoining field on their canoe instruction.
Tuesday 's camp inspection was carried out by District Commissioner A R. G. POCO Ck, accompanied by the Mayor, Who has had connections with the Briga de for many years, and Div. Supt. J. Beavan ; we thoroughly enjoyed their visit.
Next day our cadets were told they could leave the washing-up to the adults so that they co uld visit SJA Monmouth's H/Q; the washing-up seemed to take hours! But later some of us adults accepted an invitation to drinks with the Mayor in his parlour - which made up for all that washing-up.
On exam-day for map reading and camping, our cadets were split up into groups and taken out in the van (with
windows covered) to different places; then with compass and maps they had to find their way through the forest to camp. They were all in before tea.
Football agains t the scouts, camp-fire sing-songs, hot dogs and baked potatoes - so the fun went on Friday morninglast jokes and pranks. Then, strike camp : kit packed, tents down and folded, pits filled in and turf replaced, litter cleared, and then parade. Camp was over for another year.
Now I'd better get back to that list I was preparing - for this year's camp.
G. W Wright BERKSHIRE
The first county cadet camp in Berkshire for many years was held at Rempstone, Corfe Castle, Dorset, from August 8 to 15.
Cadets from the following attended: A bingdon, Ascot, Lambourn, Maidenhead, Southcote and Wantage.
divisions Didcot, Reading,
Being our first camp, many hours were spent organising equipment; some was bought a certain amount was borrowed from divisions, but the maj ority was borrowed from St. John in Dorsetwithout whose help our camp would not have been possible
An advance party set off on Thursday to prepare the site, and a rear party stopped until Sunday to clear up. The main party arrived by coach, and the van and mini-bus used by the advance party provided transport during the camp.
A full programme was planned, and adequate time allowed for training. This included map reading (with a night expedition), camp activities, gadget making (a camp shower was cleverly designed and made by one group of cadets), and swimming at Studland Bay, which proved very popular. During the week visits were organised to Lulworth Cove, Durleston Head lighthouse, Weymouth and Bovington tank museum.
During the week we were visited by members of local divisions and county and corps staff; we were also pleased to welcome the Secretary General of the Order , Mr. and Mrs McClintock. Our own County Commander Brig. T. E. D. Kelly visited us together with several members of the county and area staff. We were inspected by Mr. A. Clark, County Camp Adviser, Dorset , and County Superintendent Mrs. J. Horsey.
Everyone agreed that for a first-time effort the camp was a great success. Now for 1971.
KENYA
A demonstration of artificial respiration took pla ce recently in Bu ngoma, which is a new area just formed in the Western Province of Kenya (it is mainly agricultural). The area covers Bu sia, Bungoma and Kakamega, and our repre sentat iv e there is Mr. Ja sphet D. Akwiri , who ha s 30 years service in Brigade.
When he was posted to this remote part of Kenya, Mr. Akwiri straight away set out to form a Branch Committee with the District
Commissioner as chairman. He has intere sted all the prominent citizens of the town as well as the medical and nursing staff of Bungoma hospital in SJA. In 12 months he has trained over 200 people in first aid, and formed 4 adult divisions as well as two ca det divi sions. We, in Kenya, are very proud of his achievements. Since this photogr aph was tak en we have b een ab le to supply a resusci-Andy model for training, as well as a few other items.
A
First Week
Arrive late for practice, no need to apologise; it's not the first time. Announce that you are going to start with a lesson on poisoning. Do not rely on your memory; read it from the book. They are a dim crowd anyway. It will take them at least five minutes to realise that you do not know your subject and that they might as well have stayed at home and read it themselves.
Having finished with poisons, thank your ambulance driver and his mate for the transport job they did a couple of evenings before. Then tell the driver you have heard that he turned out in brown shoes. Give him a very severe reprimand. Do not accept his excuse that he was called out at such short notice that he did not have time to change his shoes, or have the meal he was about to start, and that he arrived at the main line station, twenty mil€s away, only two minutes before the train bearing the patient he was to meet. Point out that it takes only a minute to change a pair of shoes and that he would still have a minute to spare. Tear him off a strip. Your Division should be proud to belong to such a disciplined body and will be impressed with the need to be correctly dressed whenever uniform is worn. You can always get another driver.
For practical training choose one man as patiemt. Tell the rest to 'Do him up for a fractured thigh'.
Second Week
Arrive late. Young Ambulance Member Billy Brown has brought a friend along who wishes to join. Be very off-hand with the recruit. Take Brown to one side and tell him quietly that you are not favourably impressed with his friend. Tell him that you do not want long-haired slobs in your Division. Add 'Present company excepted, of course'. Politeness costs nothing. Too bad if Brown takes it to mean you think he is a long-haired slob. After all, you do. Engage in long conversation with the ambulance officer and NCOs on administFative matters. Tell your Division you are sorry but it is too late now to do any training. Admonish them bitterly when you realise that several have got tired of waiting and gone home without permission.
22
Arrive early. The Division will not expect this and quite a number will be late. You will then have a splendid opportunity to give them a pep talk on the meed for punctuality. Admit of cou r se that you have been late yourself once or twice but point out that you are a busy man with lots of other things to do. This will undoubtedly remind them that they are also busy men with other calls on their time.
As you have no programme planned for the evening tell them that it is too late to start training. Instead, since attendances seem to be dropping off , you think it better to have a discussion about how to maintain interest and get recruits. Suggest that you would welcome their suggestions.
Before dismissing the Division ask your corporal to stay on as you want a word with him. Ask him how he is getting on with the big stunt you gave him to prepare. Show no interest when he says it is about ready and that he has spent all his spare time on it for the past two months, often working till midnight or even later. He has done that on other occasions, which is why you gave him the job. Come to the point; you have heard that during his work he ignored an order. Rebuke him in the most arrogant and insolent terms you can think of. That will show him you are boss and orders are to be obeyed. If you can be bad mannered and indisciplined while you are about it, you will have no more trouble with him. But you should get the details of the proj ect he was working on first.
Fourth Week
Arrive on time. Your ambulance officer tells you Old Smithy has thought 1J p a grand idea to interest the Division and perhaps get recruits. He calls Smith forward to explain the details. It is a good idea but would mean a lot of extra work for you so be careful. Veto it. Tell him the Division could not do it, and that it is a silly idea anyway. that you had exciting outdoor of the bct that the Tell the Division prepared a really exercise but in view weather is so bad you win have to postpone it.
Choose a patient and tell the rest to 'Do him up for a fractured thigh'. And
add: 'He is unconscious'. There is nothing better than variety.
Fifth Week
A ttendances are still dropping off. Only four other members arrive tonight. Suggest that it is not worth while doing any training with such small numbers. Instead they are to clean and tidy the store cupboard, and that this will give you a chance to catch up on some of your paper work. When they see you sitting at the table which is covered with letters and forms they will get an insight into all the administrative work needed to run a Division. Besides, it is not so dusty as the store cupboard.
When they tell you they have finished , inspect their work and compliment them
But remember that 'An Active Division is a Happy Division', so tell them that they have put on the right-hand side the things you wanted on the left and vice versa. Tell them to take everything out again and reverse them. When they ha ve emptied the cupboard again point out that it is getting late Help them to bundle everything back higgledy-piggledy and say they can square them up next week.
Sixth Week
Arrive late. Find your H/Q deserted ; no one else turns up. Write out your resignation. Give as your reason the inexplicable lack of support and keeness shown by your Division. Without actually saying so imply your conviction that St. John has very few officers of your standard. The Commissioner is sure to agree with you. He might not mean it in quite the same way though.
To fill in your spare time join the local Bingo club. Perhaps you will meet some old members of your Division there. Wonder why they seem so much keener on the club than they did on your practice nights. Decide that perhaps they actually enjoy Bingo.
Don't worry about the Division. Your successor may be able to rebuild itafter a few years of hard work.
N.13. This superintendent is lP1!Uely fictionai and bears no resemblence to any divisional officer under whom it has been my privilege to serve.
13-year-old Maranna Clark, of Londonderry Nursing Cadet Division, sang and danced her way to wi n the 'Star of Donegal' talent competition, and is now to appear in TV's Opportunity Knocks. Good luck Maranna! (Photo: Londonderry Sentinel)
Upminster and Hornchurch Division's cadet of the year Cpl. Peter Heather is congratulated by his mates
CA , 59 , area commissioner, North Derbyshire (NCB).
Due to the postal strike in Britain we regret there is a shortage of divisional news this month. But be rest assured, the activities of SJA in Britain continue unabated.
SURREY-Memb er s of the Donnan s La nd and Lingfield Nur sing Divi sion w on the Margaret Callow Cup for E ast Surrey Nur sing Divisions recently. Th e t e am was : Mr s Joy ce R o b ert s, Mrs Edith Pe el , Mr s Joy Ash and Mr s Jeann e Robert s.
GEORGE HENRY DAVEY, OStJ, 85, fonner divisional superintendent Torquay Ambulance Division was still serving as divisional storeman. Joined Brigade in 1909 - 61 years service.
JAMES W. EGGLESTON SBOSt, 63, for many years superintendent, Keswick Ambulance Division, Cumberland. Joined Brigade 1928.
INCHE EUSOFF BIN ISHAK, president, SJAA Singapore.
THOMAS McBRIDE, OOSt, 90, London, founder member Hospitallers' Club 1920 pre sident 1929 Joined Brigade 1912.
I?uring 1971 a total of 20 sets of marking sheets relating to fmals of national first aid compe t itions will be made available for training purposes , each set comprising one team plus two individual tests.
The test papers will be forwarded after each competition Occurs to subscribers who forward £5 to defray produ ction costs and surface postal charges.
To ensure receipt of the complete 1971 issue orders should be placed as soon as possible, with :-
The Competition Secretary St. John Ambulance Headquarters, 1, Grosvenor Crescent, LONDON, S.W.I.
to availability , single sets of papers relating to speclflc competitions may be ordered throughout the year at the pro rata cost of 5/- per set, post free.
THOMAS MI LNE, SBOStJ, corps superintendent , Longton and District Corps Joined Brigade 1930
DR. HOWELL BULKELEY PIERCE, KStJ 74, Fonner SJAB commissioner, North Glamorgan District.
FRANK SANDERSON, SBOSt, fonner divisional superintendent, Barton-{)n-Humber Cadet Division. Joined Brigade 1923.
E. A. WOOLFORD, SBOSt, divisional superintendent , Gloucester St. George Ambulance Division. Joined Brigade 1939.
Review commencing with the
I enclose .for years.
£1.70p including postage for one year
CLUES TO CROSSWORD No.3 (71) Compiled by W A Potter
ACROSS:
1. Cranial n e rv e supplying lungs and stoma ch (5) 4 Slander in sect in growth invading and destroying tissues. (9) 9 Rapidly mov i ng facial feature of p er son with common cold ? (7.4) 10 Wa r ming wingless limb (3) 11. Face slashed in a pl ac e for refreshm e nt. ( 4 ) 13 Aimed badly for bacterial cultures. (5) 14. Disorder sure t o fi nd consumer. (4) 16. After period of fasting , I go for a fr eckle (7) 17. Sense organ injur e d by bullet within h e aring distance (3-4 ) 2 0. Deficiency i n quality of blood. (7 ) 2 2. Dispersion of fin e sol d or liquid droplets in air (7) 23 Shed lacrimal secretion (4) 24. Felt immediately prior to an injection. (5 ) 2 5 Light-complexioned little f e llow takes air. (4) 28 Low form of bird. (3) 29 Shared injury affecting articular structures (5. 6 ) 31. Inflammation of stomach lining ( 9 ) 32 Leguminous plant indicating heart rate. (5)
DOWN:
1 Five with slightly damaged air-cell and a common infect iou s disease of childhood. (9) 2 Trap a spirit (3) 3. Appeal for silence in the front part of t he leg (4) 4. Nothing more than a magn e t in internal combustion engine (7) 5. One line forming facial characteristic of some lepers. (7) 6 Matter of brains. (4) 7 Important part of all surgical procedures. (11) 8. He has a way with animals but upsets mater. (5) 12. Soft spots on infant's head. (11) 15. Business association like bone after well-healed fracture (4) 18 Artist and sapper together are very un common. (4) 19 Abil i ty to take large amounts of drug without marked pharm ac ologic al effects. (9) 21 Pn eumatic elevator for rapid movement of men and materials over long distances? (3-4) 22 Its cas e p r esents a s free fluid in the peritoneal (7) 23 Trespass in errOl'. (5) 26. A shock partially opened door. (4) 27. He has record for aid given (4) 30 Dis e ased in village (3).
ACROSS: SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No.2 (71).
1. Hot air; 4 Undulant; 9. Truant ; 10 Breather; 12. Airy; 13 R.a.don; 14. Anus; 17. Hob-nail liver ; 2 0. Acute disea se; 23 Iron; 24 Virus; 25. He M.P.; 28 Cy t ology ; 29 Ca via r; 30. Pressure ; 31 Phenol.
DOWN: 1. Hot bathe; 2. True r i bs; 3 I o ns ; 5. Nar c otic drug ; 6. Upas; 7. Aching ; 8 Thrush; 11. Mallet finger ; 15 Lance ; 16 Y e ast ; 18. Valerian; 19. T e mp oral ; 2 1. Hiccup ; 22. Goit r e ; 26. Plu s; 2 7 Rash 24
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FOR THE FIRST TIME A REIGNING QUEEN OF ENGLAND HOLDS AN INVESTITURE OF THE ORDER
by Colonel P. H. Catt (Director of Ceremonies)
Princess
Maintenance
Industrial Accidents by Vincent Hanna p.14
Your First Aid: Is it up-to-date? by W R. Morris p.17
To stop or not to stop? by J Spencer p.18
The National Competition by Stan Baldwin p.18
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was about
I have been asked to record for the pleasure of all those who read The Review , the great honour and distinction conferred on the Most Venerable Order of St. John of Jerusalem by Her Majesty The Queen, The Sovereign Head when on Wednesday forenoon the day of 1971 Her Majesty was graciously pleased to presIde at a Meetmg of Chapter-General in the Ballroom at Buckingham Palace.
. occasion was one of great historical importance and slgmfIcance, being the first time in which a reigning Queen of England has held an Investiture of Bailiffs and Dames Grand Cross and a reception of Knights of the Order. privilege, together with the ancient, though modIfIed, ntual , coupled with the magnificence of the occasion and splendour of the setting, created an atmosphere which not only inspired the distinguished Postulants and indeed all those who privileged to be present , but created a marked spirit of devotlOn to The Sovereign Head and dedication to the Most Venerable Order.
The Postulant Knights and guests were seated in the Ballroom half an hour before the ceremony, enjoying the music rendered by the string band of the Coldstream Guards. Members of Chapter General habited and led by the clerical brethren and Sub-Prelates , entered in solemn procession and occupied the benches on the flanks of the Dais.
In the meantime the procession for the Sovereign Head waited at the entrance to the Blue Drawing Room, whilst the Lord Prior of St John in full capitular habit of a Bailiff Grand Cross supported by the Prelate , robed in the cape of the Order and wearing his mitre, the Chancellor and I myself awaited Her Majesty therein.
As soon as the Lord Prior had made the presentation he conducted Her Majesty to the waiting procession, which about and moved slowly to the Ballroom.
Her entered the Ballroom in State, preceded by the Executlve Offlcers, Priors, Bailiffs , the Great Officers and the Sword , with the Members of the Royal Family and an Equerry in Attendance and moved to the centre of the Dais supported by the Lord Prior and the Prelate.
As the Sovereign Head turned to face the Postulants 11 o'clock struck. The Band played the National Anthem : the Prelate remo.ved his mitre and offered the Opening Prayers and then Her Majesty was graciously pleased to invite the assembly to be seated.
Band recommenced playing softly and like a canopy the anCIent mantle of the Most Venerable Order shut out for a time
(Continued on n e xt page)
Her Majesty, Princess Anne, Prince William and Chapter Ge ne ral in the Ballroom at Buckingham Palace
the toils of one's daily life, whilst the distinguished company enjoyed the splendour of a Royal yet very personal ceremony.
Her Majesty was robed in the Royal Mantle, first worn by His Majesty King George Vth, Her Grandfather, and further graeiously honoured the Order by being dressed in white, a gentle reminder to all, of the purity of life required of the Knights, which Her Majesty later quoted when reading the Exhortation to those awaiting reception.
Her Royal Highness The Princess Anne honoured the St. John Ambulance by wearing the uniform of Commandant-in-Chief, Ambulance and Nursing Cadets, whilst Prince William of Gloucester was habited in the Sopra Vest and Mantle of a Knight of Justice.
This then was the picture. I will now deal briefly with the presentations and close with a list of the Bailiffs, Dames and Knights, in the order in which they were received.
Her Majesty firstly invested Her Royal Highness The Princess Anne with the insignia of a Dame of Justice, then His Royal Highness Prince William 0f Glouceste li , cousin of Her Majesty, knelt to receive the neck badge of a Knight of JlllStiC€, afterwards being raised by the hand of the Sovereign Head, with the words, "Rise Confrere". Their Royal Highnesses in turn moved to their appointed places on the Dais, behind Her Majesty.
Each Bailiff Grand Cross, attended by his Esquires followed in order of seniority and was likewise invested kneeling but with this difference, his mantle was removed, whilst Her Majesty placed the Riband over his right shoulder and after being raised, he stood in the Presence, whilst his Banner was displayed The Bailiff, after bowing, then moved to his seat behind The Princess and Prin ce and his Esquires withdrew as directed. '
The Dames Grand Cross each in turn, were conducted to the Dais by a Knight of Justice and after making a curtsy were invested likewise with the Riband They curtsied again and returned to their seats
The Sovereign Head then was pleased to command that the Banners of the newly invested Bailiffs Grand Cross should be hung displayed in the Grand Priory Church and gave me leave to address the Chancellor regarding the presence of the Postulate Knights who had been signalled to rise. The Chancellor examined the Postulants on their duties to the Order and then as Knights, to which they severally replied. The Lord Prior presented them to Her Majesty in a body and afterwards offered the Illuminated Exhortation, which Her Majesty was pleased to pronounce, at the conclusion of which the Postulants were signalled to be seated.
The Reception of Knights commenced with the Executive Officers and Members of Chapter-General who were all robed in
Sopra Vests. Each Kn i ght, as his name wa s announced, attended by an Esquire bearing his Mantle and insignia , moved to the Dais in turn, knelt O!l1 the right knee to receive his neck badge from Her Majesty and Mantle from myself and was afterwards raised with the words "Rise Confrere", as before mentioned.
Thos e who w ere Executive Offi ce rs moved to their pl aces on the flank s of the Dais, the others returned to their sea ts fully habited. The remaining Knights each attended by an Esquire bearing his in signi a, were received and invested by Her Majesty likewise and on being raised , bowed and withdrew accompanied by their Esquires.
At the conclusion of the Investiture, Her Majesty read The Address to th e newly invested Knights who were again standing.
The gu ests rose as the Pr8Tat e offered th e Responses and Closing Prayers Th e Band played the National Anthem
Then our Most Gracious Sovereign Lady The Queen, accompanied by the Members of the Royal Family , left the Ballroom in State , pr ece ded by the Cross of the Order , the Prel a te , the Officia ti ng Chaplains and the Sword , sheathed in the new Stat e S ca bbard for the first tim e, and attended as b efo re by the Gr ea t Officers, Bailiffs Grand Cross, Priors and Executive Officers.
The following Bailiffs Grand Cross were invested by Her Majesty The Sovereign Head:
Sir Gilbert Samuel Inglefield, GBE, TD. Lewis Gilmour Wh y te.
Rear-Admiral R oye r Mylius Dic k, CB, CBE, DSC.
Sir Gerald Hall e n Creasy, KCMG , KCVO, OBE
Sir Charl es Archibald Philip Sou thwell, CBE, Me. Leonard Ha nson Nic hol so n, SM MBE.
Colonel Sir George Grafton Lees St ening , E D.
The following Dames Grand Cross were invested by Her Majesty The Soyer.eigA Head:
Dame MaIgaret Wakehmst, DBE MllIjorie , Countes s of Brecknod:: , DBl:
The folklwing Knights of Justice and Knights of Grace who are Members of Chapter-General/were received and invested by Her Majesty The Sovereign Head:
Th e Earl St. Ald wy n, KB E, PC , TD, DL. Nic hola s Cole McClintock.
Lieut.-General Sir William Gregory Huddl esto n Pike KCB CBE, DSO
Sir Hugh Southern Ste ph e nso n, GBE, KCMG CIE , CVO.
Professor Lionel Harry Butler.
Group Captain The Hon. Pe te r Beckford Ru tgers Vann ec k OB E, AFC, ADe.
Mauri ce Stapl eton Barker.
The Hon Deni s Gomer Berry, TO.
Vic e- Admiral Sir Peveril Barton Rei by Wallop Wilham-Powl et t , KCB KCMG, CBE, DSO
Sir Jonathan Lion el Percy Denny , GBE, Me.
Sir Gawain Wes tra y Bell, KCMG , CBE.
Rear- Admiral Rog er Stanl ey Well by , CB, DSO.
Sir David Wilkin son, BT, DSC.
Sir Arthur Hilton Poynton GCMG.
Raymond Lee Bellwood TO
Group Captain Gordon Hamish Martin Pirie. CBE, DL.
Professo r Harold Charles Stewart , DL.
Lieut -Col one John Rhodri Ll e wellyn Trahern e, DL.
The following Knights of Justice and Knights of Grace were received and invested by Her Majesty The Sovereign Head:
Major Robert Alfr ed O'Brie n MVO TD
Major Thomas William Kenneth Clifford Cook.
Sir Robert Ian Be llinger , GBE.
Lieut -Colon e John Walt er Chitty, MB E. Arthur Goring.
Su Arnold Charles Trind er GBE
Sir Ian Fran k Bowat er, GBE, DSO , TD
Jonathan Simon Ch risto pher Ril ey- Smith
J?hn Alastair Montgomerie, DSe.
Sa James Monteith Grant KCVO
Sir Arthur Maynard J enour TO, VL.
Colonel Sir Robert Godfrey Llewellyn, BT CB, CBE, MC TD , DL.
Major-General Lewis Pugh, CB CBE, DSO.
Colonel William Robert Crawshay, DSO , ERD, TD, ADC , DL.
Colonel George Gregg, OBE, TD.
John Harri s Rea, MBE.
The Earl of Gainsborough.
The Vis cou nt Kem sley.
The Vi sco unt Furness.
Sir Peter Malden Studd.
Sir Ronald Herbe rt Garvey, KCMG KCVO , MBE. Lieut .-Gener al Sir Harold Redman , KCB CBE
Sir E dward Betham Beetham, KCMG CVO, OBE
Lieut.-General Sir Cyril Frederick Charle s Coleman, KCB, CMG, DSO OBE.
Sir Jam es Miller, GBE.
Frank Rob ert Bernard Howard Kenn edy , MBE
Graham Halbe rt
Leonard River s Norman Percey, MBE.
The Vi sc ount Gort, MC , DL.
Sir Patrick Henry Dean GCMG
Edwin Bay liss, OB E. DL.
Th e Lord Brock
Sir Regi nald Wat son-Jone
Kenneth George Ward Saunders, OBE.
Li eut -Colonel Arthur Heywood-Lonsdale , CBE , Me.
R egi nald Herbert Blanchford, GM, OBE Me. Lieut .-Colonel Keith Leslie Batten
Gerald Eugene Waddington.
Robert Hugh Percival, DL.
Colonel John Milns Wes t CBE, TD
Denis Noel Johnson , MBE, TD.
Colonel Geoffre y George Hargreave s Bolton CBE, MC , DL.
Th e Earl of Mar and K ellie
Andrew Lawson.
Colonel George William Bru ce, TD , DL.
Brigadier John Gwynn e Morgan, CBE, TD , DL.
William John Skyrm e.
John Henry Wilco x.
Hor Hughe s Davie s
Colonel Henry Robert Humphries , TD, DL. Ebenezer George Howells MM.
George Edward Davies
Joseph Wren
Arnold DaYle s Griffith
Evan William Meurig William s
Thomas Jam es Myles Gregg, OBE.
Briga di e r Hugh Salu sbury Kyna ston Mainwaring , CB, CBE DSO , TD.
Harold Cyril Le Batt Havard
Sir Francis Evan s, GBE , KCMG
Major- Gene ral Sir Julian Alvery Gascoigne, KCMG KCVO CB, DSO DL.
The following Associate Knight of Grace was received and invested by Her
Majesty The Sovereign Head: Sir Bernard Nathaniel Waley-Cohen, BT.
SJA's NEW COMMANDANT-IN-CHIEF AMBULANCE AND NURSING CADETS VISITS HEADQUARTERS
PRINCESS ANNE made her first official visit since being appointed Commandant-in-Chief Ambulance and Nursing Cadets to the headquarters of St. John Ambulance and St John's Gate on February 23. First she lunched with senior headquarters officers at St. John House, then at headquarters she visited the various departments and watched demonstrations of first aid and home nursing given by London District cadets. Later in the afternoon she made an extensive tour of the headquarters of the Order of St John at St. John's Gate, Clerkenwell.
by A. R. Davenport (County Staff Officer)
LAST SEPTEMBER I held a Field Day for cadets within the Peterborough Corps. The main object of the day was for cadets from different divisions to mix and learn to wmk together. In this we in Peterborough think the idea was a great success.
About seventy cadets attended, not as many as expected, but this, I think, was because many cadets did not fully understand what was to happen. We published the event but as this was done during the tail end of holiday many divisions were not well attended. The cadets came from seven divisions: H/Q Am bulance Cadets, Odeon Nursing, Holmes Nursing, Werrington Nursing, St. Matthews Eye Combined, Medehampstede Combined and Yaxley Combined. The Field Day was held at local Walton Secondary School, where we had the use of the playing field and a new sports hall. The day began in the field but as the weather turned cold we moved inside
At 1 Dam the cadets paraded in uniform. The divisions were given an equal mnnber of coloured badges : blue, red, green and yellow. Cadets of the same colour badge were then grouped together and the mixing of the divisions had started. The badges were also lettered
A,B,C,D, and so on, with four of the same letter in each colour group, so that whtm. the four blue A badges came together, for example, we had a team of four mixed so far as division and ages were concerned.
But the cadets were allowed to work in their own divisional teams for one event - a first aid competition. This took the form of a hit-and-run accident staged at a road junction, complete with zebra crossing, within the school grounds. It was won by Yaxley cadets, who took the 'Tamarix Field Day Shiels' with 118 points out of a possible 142. While this competition was going on the rest of the cadets were kept busy. 6
Around the hall we had six with different equipment. The mixed teams of four went to each officer in turn for a small test, which were: fractured arm, fractured leg, resuscitation, first aid questions, child care, and bedmaking. There were lots of laughs as the boys bathed a 'baby' and made a bed It was left to the teams to decide which cadet did which event. The teams were given score cards, which the officers marked for them. The scorers then simply added up
Says Keith Gipson, 10-year-olcl cadet of St. Matthews Eye Division, while 'Bathing the Baby' on the cards as teams comple ted th e circuit. A plaque was presented to each member of th e winning team , who were: NJC J Freemantle, aged 16 NjC M. Bayliss , aged 14, both of Odeon Nursing Cadet Division ; AIC K. Gipson aged 10, and N/C J. Gipson, aged 8 both of St. Matthews Eye Division. The winn ers were not mixed division-wise, but they certainly we r e in ages. This team scored 66 points out of a possible 90. On completion of the morning's event s
we had picnic lunches brought with us, a[IJJ t!i then the cadets changed i n.to old dothes ready for the afternoon's 'fUR-sports'
These were organised for us by Mr. G. Ricketts, an ex-Peterborough foot baIler and Mr. C Cary, a sports master at the school. Cadets of the same badge colour group raced together, so each race was run four times . Now the cadets really let themselves go and thoroughly enjoyed every incident.
In Race One - the competitors sat with their backs to the course and removed their shoes, which they threw over their shoulders and the starter mixed them up. in a heap At the 'off' competitor s had to find their shoes and put them on, and then run to a bowl of water wntaining an apple, which had to be removed by using only the mouth. As well as getting their faces washed for the second time that day (we hope!), the girls had a of trouble with their long hair gettmg mto the water! Having got the apple , the c ontest finished with a sack race - and many laughs.
Ra c e Two - the competitors, on therr knees had to blow a table tennis ball along the floor to a bottle of orange squash , which had to be drunk through a straw They then had to crawl through two tyres to finish the race.
In Race Three - the competitors holding an inflated balloon between legs , ran to an empty 1/3pint milk bottle which had to be filled with water from bowl a yard away using a dessert spoon. More water ended up on the cadets than in the bottles. Having filled the bottl e the next problem was to dive under and crawl beneath a large canvas sheet - to finish
In Rac e F our - this started with an egg-and-spoon r ace , with the egg being scooped up on the spoon from th e floOI" to run a currant bun hanging on pI.ece of stnng, which had to be eaten WIth hands behind the back ; the r ace was completed by cr a wling through a long low formed by upturned
While all th ese races were taking place we also ran a t e am mini-marathon called an aeroplane ra ce. With two lines five yards apart, the four team members raced at the ' off' to the opposite line , where one of the team lay down to be camed back to the base line by the other three. As soon as they had 'touched all four raced back again and this tIme number two lay down and the others carried him back, and so on There a time limit of two minutes ' the w . , mnrng team completed 7 % crossings. After about the second crossing this gam e becomes very hard work indeed.
Throughout the afternoon cadets were points for placings in the races : - 12pts; 2nd - 1 Opts ; etc The overall for the afternoon was N/C Lind a aged 15, of Yaxley Combined IVlslOn, who wo n the Field Day cup
Peterborough Corps' day of fun with instruction. Yaxley cadets, judged by Div. Supt. T. T. Leavy. at the road accident
Presentation of awards was made by Dr. H. M. Weaver, Corps Superintendent. The day ended with the cadets and officers who assisted saying how much they enjoyed it. The cadets thought the SIX small tests in the morning had been first aid with a difference - which they liked. The afternoon's sports were voted - fantastic fun! Everyone wanted
to know when the next Cadet Field Day was to be. I called for cheers for the organisers - and the new sports hall almost lost its roof!
T1us was the first event of its type to held in Peterborough. I now hope it will be an annual one. So if you want a day with a difference for cadets - believe me: Have a CADET FIELD DAY
HER ROYAL HIGHNESS the Princess Anne is very quickly getting to know about us at St. John Ambulance so we should know more about her. As second child of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh she was born at Clarence House on August 15 1950, when her mother was Princess Elizabeth; heir presumptive to the throne. So this August she will be 21. She was baptised at Buckingham Palace on October 21 by the late Dr. Cyril Garbett, Archbishop of York, and was given the names of Anne Elizabeth Alice Louise.
In May 1952, shortly after her accession, Queen Elizabeth moved into Buckingham Palace with her family.
When Princess Anne became old enough, she joined the Prince of Wales for lessons with Miss Katherine Peebles, formerly governess to Prince Michael of Kent. They studied the piano under Miss Hilda Bor, and dancing at a weekly class at Buckingham Palace given by Miss Vacani. After the Prince of Wales went to school Princess Anne's lessons at Buckingham Palace were shared by girl friends until 1963.
In 1 959 the Princess and her class-mates began a round of London visits: to the Tower of London, to a children's matinee at the London Planetarium, and a private educational visit to France. She was the guest of the MarquiS and Marquise de Saint-Genys, friends of the Comte de Paris, and stayed with them at the Chateau de la Lorie at Chapelle-sur-Oudon in Anjou. The following year she visited the Strangers' Gallery at the House of Commons at question time.
APPOI NTMENTS
The Order Dame of Justice: HRH Princess Anne, Commandant-in-Chief of Ambulance and Nursing Cadets.
Bailiff Grand Cross: Commissioner L. H. Nicholson, Canada. Dame Grand Cross: Marjorie, Countess of Brecknock.
St. John Ambulance Herts: Mrs. B. H. McCorquodale appointed Chainnan, St. John Council.
Suffolk: Mr. T. Blackwell appointed Chainnan, St. John Council, June 24 1971.
Surrey: Dr. A. R H. Hicks to Dep. Com. Wores; Mr. T. C. Lench succeeded as Del'. Commissioner by Mr. 1. W. Macpherson.
Berks: Major the Hon. J. D. A. J. Monson to be Com. Eastern Area.
Cambridge: Mr. C. E. Booth to Dep. Com.
Development Officer
Mr. H. R. Dick appointed Development Officer, N.W. Region.
The Princess became a Brownie in 1959, when the Queen initiated the re-formation of the 1st Buckingham Palace Pack. This Pack used to exist when the Queen and Princess Margaret were children; it was re-formed by amalgamation with the pack at Holy Trinity Church, Brompton, and included children from all walks of life. Princess Anne gained her Brownies' first and second class badges and in 1961 became a Girl Guide.
In 1954 Princess Anne, with the Prince of Wales, made her first journey outside Britain, when the two children travelled in the Royal Ya.cht to Tobruk to meet their parents on their return from their Commonwealth tour. With them they visited Gibraltar and Malta on the way home. The young people have spent other holidays on the yacht Britannia.
In September 1963 Princess Anne became a pupil at Benenden School, a boarding school for girls in Kent. She took her A-level examination in 1968 , and left school at the end of the summer term in that year, after which she took a six-weeks course in French at the Berlitz School of Languages
Having reached the age of 18, Her Royal Highness began to undertake public engagements alone, and flew her personal standard for the first time the following year when she opened the education and training centre in Shropshire of the Road Transport Industry Training Board, and followed the ceremony by taking the wheel of a double-decker bus She also began to accompany her parents on state visits, the first occasion being when she joined them in Austria in May 1969.
From her earliest years the Princess was a gay, vivacious child; photographs of her have always borne a striking resemblance to those of her mother the Queen at the same age. She has inherited
BY THE EDITOR
the Queen 's lov e of horses, belongs to the Battle Riding Club and took part in the Horse of the Year Show at Wembl ey in the autumn of 1968. Sh e is fond of other outdoor activities, swims and plays tennis, and she and her brothers take part in many country pursuits when with their parents , they visit the 'Royal residen ces a t Sandringham in Norfolk and Balmoral in Scotland.
And now she has succeeded Princess Margaret as Commandan t-in-Chief of the Nursing and Am bulance Cadets SJ A. Welcome.
All the pageantry of the Order of St. John will be seen when an Order Service is held at Tewkesbury Abbey on the second Saturday in May.
The service, which is rarely held outside London, will be attended by the Lord Prior and all Knights of the Order the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire Hereford shire , Worcestershire and Oxfordshir e, together with more than 2,000 SJA members.
Revealing plans for the service at the annual general meeting of Northleach and District Combined Divisions, Mr. A. Folca, county staff officer, said 1971 was going to be a big year for Gloucestershire as far as the Order was concerned.
Explaining some of the reasons for holding the service at Tewkesbury Abbey, Mr. Folca said this was the SOOth anniversary of the Battle of Tewkesbury in wh[ch the then Lord Prior was killedhe fought on the losing side.
It was also the 850th anniversary of the dedication of the Abbey, originally a Benedictine Abbey, and it was the Benedictine monks who started the Order of St. John.
The bottom fell out of l6-stone Roger Bourne's world while he was dancing the Pase Doble at a 21 st birthday party recently. H e crashed through the floor of the upsta irs ballroom and plunged 15ft into the bar of a r estaura nt at Bushey , Herts - to land among a St. John Ambulance group on their annual outing.
After instant first aid Mr. Bourne 23, was taken to hospital suffering only from cu ts and bruises.
Mr. Bourne said later: I didn't know what had happened. One minute I was dancing. The next second I was flying through the air.
'We were doing a Snowball Pase Doble didn't know the steps so I thought I'd jus t jiggle up anu down a bit. I know I'm quite a weight, but I didn 't think my jiggle was that violent.
'I seemed to go straight through. I remember hitting an iron bar bat otherwise the floor which was of glass blocks just seemed to open up under me. The next minute I was lying on the
carpet in the bar below with the ambulance chaps leaning over me' SJ A on the scene again.
The Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro yacht race captured the imagination of South Africa 1 hear, and St. John in Cape Town had the opportunity of playing its part.
S t. J Qhn established a sick bay in 'Unitie' which was manned from Decem ber 15 1970 until the race started on January 16 1971. Our mem bers were on duty from 9am to 5pm seven days a week, including Christmas and New Year's Day
They dealt with a variety of injuries as mentioned in the accompanying by the honorary surgeon appointed by the race committee.
Special mention must be made of the sterling work put in by A/S Miss C. Taylor of Somerset West Strand Division who spent 23 days at 'Unitie' travelling 70 mile s each day; and that of Corps Officer Miss A. D. R ei d who took over from Miss Taylor on Saturdays and Sundays.
On the day of the start of the race t here were twenty members of the Brigad e on duty. The organisers of the race had i nvit ed seven thousand guests to the Harbour area and another three thousand to the S.A 'Ge neral Botha the S.A. Mercantile Training Base, to witness the start, and SJ A members did not intend to be caught napping.
The members on duty learned a lot about the injuries to be expected when approximately four hundred yachtsmen work in close proximity , and they are now better prepared for the next race which , I understand, is scheduled for January , 1973
Four Andover (Hants) divisions put on a Romany Fair recently - complete with cadets as gYPsies and ambulance member Bert Alden as F.ather Christmas - and raised £225 for €!oIV lslonal funds. Organised by Mrs. S. Wicks ca€let superi ntendent, the fair also gave atil unrehearsed first·aid demonstration when the grandmother of one of the cadets fell and cracked her hip. After examination the casualty was driven to hospital by gyPS;' SJA members.
A Cape Town surgeon - also a keen yachtsman - acted as honorary surgeon to the (;mterprise and duriNg the final days of preparation wrote the following:
The Cape to Rio race began after a fortnight of final intensive preparation following New Year's day 1971.
Over 400 yachtsmen gathered in the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Cape Town harbour, and the Citizen Force Naval establishment S.A.S. Unitie alongside the club was the headquarters of the race organisation.
Accidental injury, minor illness and fatigue are inevitably part of such an exercise and it was essential to establish a constant daily health service in the sick bay.
Due to the assistance of the local Chairman of the St. John Ambulance Association, Mr. Frank Waller - himself a well-known and successful yacht skipper - this sick bay was manned by the St John Ambulance Brigade staff.
When Miss Taylor arrived to initiate the activity there was virtually no equipment nor suitable medicine chest to hand. With my advice a range of useful medicines and diagnostic instruments was rapidly acquired and a steady stream of patients began to flow through the establishment.
Miss Taylor had of necessity to use her own judgment to avoid delaying patients who required minor care. She did this with great skill, keeping a record of her activities so that I could discuss the treatments with her when I attended each day. I could personally attend to more serious cases or examine those others about whom she had some doubts or difficulties.
Miss · Reid attended at the weekends and the St. John's Ambulance provided a continuous, efficient and immensely helpful service every day.
Nearly 300 visits for advice and treatment were handled, of whieh over SO required supervision by the SlH'geon.
The cases included sprains and contusions, fractures, wounds requiring sutures, allergic rashes, asthma, influenza, heatstroke, eye injuries from fragments of stone driven off the quayside by gale-force gusts, ear infections, severe head injury and one sudden death.
The S1. John Ambulance Brigade staff gave evidence at all times, in everything they did, of the excellent training offered by the Brigade to its members in the approach to, and treatment of a wide variety of medical and surgical emergencies.
Cape Town Centre SJA has acquired a new Volkswagen Kombi-type ambulance fully equipped to the requir e d standard for ambulances. This brings the operational number of SJA ambulances in Cape Town to six.
The new ambulance was purchased with funds raised from public donations and will be used , as usual, to conv ey , free of charge, sick and injured of all races in the Western Cape
LIVENED UP
The four B's of First Aid : Breathing , Bleeding, Breaks and Burns were liv e n e d up, I hear , for teaching purposes at a first-aid demonstration given by th e SQuthampton Centre St. John Ambulance. This centre is arranging a series of monthly evenings aimed at arousing interest in first aid and kindred subjects within the region. The fir s t of
See LIVENED UP. (right) Mr. Fox shows what a pint of blood looks like. (left) Arterial haemorrhagea case is treated by demonstration team members H. Hillier and J Curtis (Pho o : Mobile Talkies Ltd )
these was held at the Association on February 19 and organised by Mr. H W. Fox and fiIst aiders from the Southern Gas Board, who are all members of the Southampton Centre
An audience of approximately 100 heard Mr. Fox, in his opening remark s, comment that he felt that the usual six period first-aid course concentrated too much on the examination which pupils fa e ed at the end of the course and le ft little time for teaching of real1y practical first aid Wors e still , the av e rage cours e was dull Mr. Fox offered the audience a different method of teaching.
This consisted of a series of demonstration s, with live and m a d e- up casualties on th e following subjects: artificial respiration , art e rial haemorrh a g e, veinou s haemorrh age fractures and burns.
After re f reshment s, t he audience was shown a film o n first aid produ ce d in Southampton Do cks by the National Dock Labour Bo ar d using th e dock s fir st aiders as the d e monstrating team. It was consid er e d by mo st p e ople as th e b es t first-aid instruction film they had seen.
The even ng e nd ed wi t h a short p eriod entitled Fun and Gam es in First Aid' in which membe rs of th e Southerp G as Board fir s t aid o rg a n is a ti o n demonstr a ted a numb e r o f gam es designed to in cre ase th e first-aide rs knowledge o f th e t ext book . T h ese i ncluded a f ir st- aid quizz c o m pl ete with ringing bell s a nd fl as hing light s, a nd a 'numb er' gam e in whi ch t h e audi e n ce were invit e d t o pr o vi de th e an sw er s, a nd c rossword s, e t c.
The Southampton Centre committee intends to run a series of such evenings, open to anyone interested in fir st-aid; a programme is being worked out which, it is hoped, will include talks on : H e ad Injuries by a neuro surgeon ; Drugs and the problems they create by a poli ce offreer ; and Casualty problem created by nuclear warfare by an ex-army instructor.
The only fish to be hooked in a Sandown St. John Ambulance Cadet Angling Club contest at Ryde Pi e r was an 80z pout it won the prize for Stephen Berry.
First-aid lessons in schools. In the Ellesmere Port district of Cheshire I hear that courses in first aid are being very sUccessfully run for 9 to 10-year-olds and
older children by Mr. L. Hughes , of the SJA Bromsborough Centre . After judging the practical t-est , Mr. Hughes said : 'The children have done incredibly well considering they have had only four theory lessons.'
The classroom first aid continues.
First steps towards starting a new SJA adult division in Wendover, Bucks, were taken recently at a special meeting.
Several adults who had been interested in the new division had taken examinations late last year and 21 out of 25 passed They were presented with their awards by Dr. R. H. Kip ping, Association Director in Bucks.
Of the award winners, 16 agreed to become first members of the new adult division in the village.
Also at the presentation was Wing Cdr. Suter, commandant of Princess Mary's
RAF Hospital , Halton, and area superintendent Mr. W Gibbs.
Members will be sad to hear of the death during February of Miss Gladys Marjorie Swansborough, who had been employed in the Stores Department of the Order of St John since 1939 Her death, which occurred peacefully , followed a serious operation which took place in December at the West Middlesex Hospital.
In her years i n the Stores Department she concentrated entirely upon the accounts side , and under her direction and patient care the Stores moved from an era of book-keeping, through mechanisation, until the most recent development of computerised accounting.
For her long and devoted work with th e 0 rder of St. John , Miss Swansborough was appointed a Serving Sister, and later promoted to Officer Sister of the Order.
LOOK AFTER HER - AND SHE WILL HELP YOU IN TEACHING TECHNIQUES FOR SAVING LIFE
by Yvonne A. Billings, SRN, OHN Student, RCN London
ANY INSTRUCTOR of emergency resuscitation should fully understand how Resusci-Anne work, for it is most disconcerting to find, just as the class is about to start, that she is not working properly. Therefore the instructor should assemble Reshlsci-Anne and make sure she is functioning before the class arrives.
If there is a fault it may be a simple one such as a kink in the non-return valve, but if the instructor does not know what to do , anything may have happeflJed (Fig. 2).
All instructors know that to get air into the lungs the neck must be extended, but I wonder how many know that the air passes through a s<1>ft plastic throat, a rigid tube in the neck, a non-return valve and a rigid windpipe before it gets into the lungs? A fault in one of these places will prevent the passage of air. The maintenance of Resusci-Anne may be divided into two parts, routine cleansing and repair of damage.
Resusci-Arme should be thoroughly cleaned after every session; it is surprising how much moisture collects in the air passages after a class has been practising. It is easier if the cleansing is carried out over a sink and draining board Resusci-Anne must first be dismantled (See Fig. 3).
the track suit. and then take off the head 1 b] turmng it face down and shdmg off. To remove the lungs , unfasten tthe strap,2 take out the holding plug 3 and gently twist off. Remove the shoulders s from the body and withdraw the non-return valve. 6 Now Resusci-Anne is ready for cleaning.
A disinfectant solution of Hibitane 10%, Alcohol 75 % and water 15% is used to flush the lungs , non-return valve and air passage in the shoulder. The disi nfec tant should be poured into the lungs then shake n to ensure good distribution. The non-return vaive and shoulder piece should be held over the sink and tliJe disinfectant poured through , then all the parts left standing to drain.
The hands and face of Resusci-Anne often get very dirty as a result of much handling, especially the nose. It has been found
that the most effective cleanser is Diethyl Ether (Ether Meth ). This removes the dirty marks and does not damage the skin. If used with reasonable care it should not constitute a fire risk. Just moisten a swab with Diethyl Ether and wipe over the face and hands.
To clean the air passages in the head, the instruction leaflet tells us to place a funnel in the mouth , extend the neck and pour the disinfectant through the funnel. If the neck is not properly extended the fluid just comes b ack out of the mouth If you are alone it is rather difficult to do this properly. Experience has shown that an easier and more satisfactory method is to turn the head upside down , grasp the hair firmly and extend the neck by placing the thumb on the base of the neck and pulling it back. The disinfectant is then poured into the base of the neck and flows out through the mouth and nose. This method ensures that the nasal passages are also thoroughly cleansed which is an important point to remember as the class should all have practised the mouth-to-nose method of resuscitation. Then drain all the fluid out. Place a swab moistened with disinfectant over the mouth and nose, so that the next time Resusci-Anne is used it will be apparent that she has been cleaned.
From time to time the clothes and hair should be washed as they get rather dirty after being on the floor. Warm, soapy water is sufficient to get them clean and the hair should be brushed out when dry.
The most common cause for complaint is deflation of the body. It is usually the result of air leaking from one of the welded seams. The leak can be found by blowing the body up hard and passing the back of the hand over the seams, or by immersing the body sectionally in a large sink or bath of water. Once the leak has been located it can be repaired with the special repair kit , in a similar manner to a bicycle puncture.
If the body has been repaired many times or is damaged beyond repair, it is advisable to obtain a new body Simply cut the hands and feet off the old body and insert them into the wrists and ankles of the new one. Then fit them in place with waterproof adhesive tape. It i s not necessary to have a perfect seal because the body itself is airtight.
A further problem may arise if the lungs have been roughly removed from the windpipe. This results in the windpipe being broken off from the shoulder. The broken end is sawn off and a replacement windpipe is cemented and screwed on.
Occasionally the welded seam at the base of the lungs comes apart. This is not a serious defect because the air just escapes instead of being expired through t he back of the neck. If the gap is too big, however , the inflation of the lungs will be affected. It can be repaired in the same way as the body or with waterproof adhesive tape.
It is an advantage to make sure there is a spare non-return valve in the Resusci-Anne case. When , through age, it fails to prevent t he return of air or the soft rubber spli ts, a replacement should be availa ble.
If difficulty is experienced in getting air to pass through into the lungs, even when the neck is fully extended, it may be because the soft plastic throat is cold.
There is a kink in this throat that pr eve nts the passage of air when the neck is not properly extended. When the plastic is cold and you suspect that the soft throat has not straightened, a good hard blow of air through the mouth will usually clear it.
If, however, you still fail to obtain a satisfactory airway, it may be that the soft plastic throat is 110t pushed tightly down over the rigid windpipe inside the neck. To ascertain this , unfasten the strap at the back of the neck, lift up the skin and look underneath.
Should the facial skin become to rn or if it is very soiled, a replacement is available. The manufacturers state that it is not Possible to repair the face. To remove the old one unfasten the strap at the back of the neck and take out the holding plug in the back of the head. The face and hair can then be eased off. When fitting a new face, make sure that the soft plastic throat is
Fig. 3
correctly in place. To re-assemble Resusci-Anne first insert the non-return valve into the shoulder air passage Make sure it is not kinked by blowing air through it. Then fit the shoulder piece into the body Slide the lungs onto the windpipe, replace the holding plug and fasten the strap, allowing enough room for inflation of the body and lungs Insert the head by holding it face down and pushing into the shoulders, then t wist upwards to lock, bringing the face into the correct position. Replace the track suit top.
Resusci-Anne should then be carefully packed into the case, making sure that the body is not creased, only gently folded . Before closing the case check that all the loose equipment such as chest band, pump , etc., has been returned to the case.
Resusci-Anne is invaluable as a training aid and therefore an important part of th e instructor's equipment. With careful handling and regular maintenance Resusci-Anne will give many years of faithful service. So remember to look after her and she will help you to train first aiders in the technique of saving lives
Note. 1 would like to thank Mr. A. A. W. Weston, Deputy Training Officer , St. John Ambulance (London District) , for his help and advice, and Asmund S Laerdal , of Stavanger , Norway for the illustrations.
Pr inted by permission of O ccupational Health.
WHILE BRITAIN AND MANY OTHER COUNTRIES ARE PLAGUED BY INDUSTRIAL STRIKES WHAT IS THE EF.F.ECT OF ACCIDENTS ON A COUNTRY'S ECONOMY? ,
A FEARFUL COST, BOTH IN MONEY AND PAIN
reports Vincent Hanna
THIS YEAR in Britain, more people will die accidentally than were killed by bombs in anyone year of the second w(;)fld war. In British factories alone , seven times as many workers will be killed or maimed as were British Servicemen in any war year.
On any showing the accident rate in British industry is rising at an alarming rate, and not least of the problems is the almost total absence of proper information on the subject.
Take one single statistic: the number of industrial accidents in Britain in 1968. The factory inspectorate lists 254,454 factory accidents in its annual report But there are two things wrong with that figure. First, it does not include accidents in processes like the construction industry, docks or quays Second, there is no obligation in Britain to report accidents where the time lost is less than three days, and in any event about 25 per cent. of accidents that should be reported ('lost time' accidents) aren't.
The true size of the problem can be found by assessing the number of new claims for industrial injury benefit in 1968 They come from a different report and they indicate the annual number of industrial accidents as 937,000
And we are still only scratching the surface. An injured workman also will not get any State benefit until he has been off work for three days, and no one records the incidence of minor accidents although they may affect production. Surveys of industrial first aid records indicate that they may outnumber 'lost time' accidents at the rate of 30: 1. A rate of this magnitu@e means that 75,000 workers are absent through injury at anyone time in Britain. It also means that in 1968 we lost 21.9 million working days through accidents at work.
These facts emerge at a time when both political parties regard a loss of 4 6 million working days in. 1968 through strikes as a national disaster. The loss of production and exports because of strikes can at least be made up But where can the State recover, on the other hand, the £43 million paid out for National Health treatment of accident victims? Who pays the bill for industrial accidents? And where dQes th.e money go? First what d o es it really cost industry? The only definitive research in
.Reprinted from The Sunday Times, London, Feb. 8 1970
Tinle lost (others): He lping Hindering Rearranging
To be added to this £75 are 'variable' costs whi ch depend on whether the injured person is replaced, or whether his wages are paid or made up during absence. This cost, says Beckingsale, can be up to £115 per accident, given an average time off at work of 25 days. If one assumes that accidents are equally divided among the variable factors the total cost to industry is a conservative annual figure of £51 million and to these figures must be added the indirect costs, of non-reported accidents of which there are about 30 million each year.
A. E. Beddoe , former chief accident surveyor of the Royal Insurance Group, argues that the effect is to increase the direct cost by three times. To illustrate this he cites the example of the factory in the North East where recently a worker was mangled in a machine in such a way that his remains had to be cut out with oxy-acetylene torches. The shop was out of production for a week, and nearly every employee in the factory went sick through shock over the following month.
This sort of incident cannot be measured without very detailed recording of data at the place of work. Noone bothers with that in Britain and any estimate of this kind is based on comparison with the US where the collection of such statistics is widespread.
The cost to the State is even more marked and is best set out in the table below. This produces a total direct cost to the nation for industrial accidents of £220 million.
If to BeckingsaJe's figures one adds the indirect costs the final total is £550 million. This is the figure arrived at by both Beddoe and another researcher in this area. If one takes the figures in America and compares them on a population basis with the UK the figure interestingly enough is approximately the same.
FRED HARPER, a packer, nipped his finger in a fork-lift truck, and took it to the factory first aid. The box was empty and a passing foreman told him to stick it under the tap in the yard. In doing so he stood in and destroyed a prepared pile of cement, which annoyed the bricklayers. Tempers were lost, shop stewards were called, and six hours' production time was wasted. And Fred's finger turned sep tic.
the number of accidents; in practice this is far from the case The statutory schemes are either inefficient or lacking in teeth and the effect of the private remedies is weakened by intervention from two groups not generally famed for their public spirit - insurance companies and th e legal profession. Both bodies serve as very effective t .lffers between the injured party and the employers.
British industry pays out about £50 million in premiums against industrial accidents each year. In return, the insurance companies take over the conduct of all claims and payout about £40 million each year in damages.
The trouble is that there does not seem to be any wide-spread relationship between accident records of firms and the size of premiums, as there is for example in motor insurance. The answer probably is that many companies take on Employer's Liability business in an attempt to capture more profitable underwriting in industry. Certainly they constantly claim that they lose money.
(The Royal Group for example expects to lose over 10 per cent. this year on EL). In 1967 a survey carried out at a London electrical engineering works found that not only was there little co-operation between firm and insurers in accident reduction but that there was even damage to industrial relations in the company because of the insurance company's policy of disputing a large number of cases that the firm regarded sympathetically.
One claims manager put it to me that his job was only to save his company money : 'Accident prevention is for the factory inspectors and Rospa and not for insurance companies'. Such an attitude
would hardly be understood in the US where it is in fact to the large insurance corporations that the public turns for safety enforcement in factories.
'Industry will never get the safety message until someo ne puts the commercial squeeze on,' says Jam es Tye of the British Safety Council and it was with that in mind that the Society of Labour Lawyers recently argued for a series of reforms in the law relating to accidents at work.
The insurance problem could be dealt with by the establishing of a public insurance au thori ty , organised 0 n a national or industrial basis. Its income would come from compulsory premium s from employers, and the authority should have power to penalise negligent firms in two ways; it cou ld impose heavy premium increases for bad accident records; or it could, in appropriate cases , apportion part of the damages to be paid directly by the employer. This would certainly be an effective way out against some firms i n the construction industry which admit that they prefer to 'write off' a number of workers each year rather than install expensive safety equipment.
Schemes of this sort have been tried with success in West Germany and Canada where the authorities have in addition coercive powers to force backward firms to raise their standards of safety precautions. But the insurance companies operate after all only within the 'system', and that means that any injured worker seeking compensation must enter his name in the legal lottery to succeed. He has to prove negligence against his employer and that means usually a long and complicated battle against an insurance company with large resources. Of course he cannot do this by himself, any more than the insurance companies ca n; they both need lawyers. Of the £40 million paid out in damages each year about 12 to 15 per cent one way or another ends up in the pockets of the legal profession. This does not take into account either the expense to the publi c of maintaining the Legal Aid scheme and the administration of the courts. The personal injuries claim is the legal profession's gravy train , for
cent of all
this field has been done by Alec Beckingsale, President of the Institution of Industrial Safety Officers and on his figures the tinancial effect on industry is startling. There is, to begin with, the 'fixed' cost of every accident, which values the cost of non-variable services in the following way.
1 The Employer
This means that each accident in this country costs £231 directly and a total £587. But if that is the cost - where does the money go?
When an accident occurs the law intervenes in two ways: in the form of a statutory scheme and also through private legal action. Thus employers can be penalised by criminal prosecution under the Factories Acts or by an action by the work er for Common Law damages for l'legligence. In the same way the injured worker has the right to recover statutory industrial injury benefit and also damages for neglig ence.
In theory both remedies should operate to encourage employers to reduce
accidents and 48.7 per cent are due to accidents at work. What they are usually arguing about in (;;Qurt is not the amount of money the unfortunate worker should get, but rather the problem of whose fault it is.
The example of the industrial injuries scheme supports this view, for under that
TWO MEN were transferring a 4-ton pile of 6ft by 4ft steel sheets from one stack to another in a factory, using a crane with special lifting tackle so that the sheets could be carried flat. One of the two slingers signalled to the driver to lower the load, when a cry was heard. His workmate, Harry Rogers, had been leaning across the stack placing a billet support and the load had come down on his head, killing him.
code the claimant gets an earnings related weekly payment, without any dispute over his rights, because negligence is not an issue, appeals to local tribunals amount to less than 1 per cent of all claims. At Common Law, however, the injured wmker is seeking a lump sum for pain and suffering, loss of amenity, and future loss of wages. The delays are considerable, few cases are settled in less than six m on ths, even with no proceedings ; and when writs are issued the time lag is usually about 18 months.
The insurance companies frankly exploit this by using their superior resources to either delay a settlement to the last moment, or to force a modest offer on a plaintiff who cannot afford to wait f e r his money
Some of the lawyers involved in these cases are neither experienced nor competent, and many insurance companies complain that it is not often possible to settle at an early stage as the solicitor does not know the proper value of the case. The excellent legal aid schemes run by the trade unions have gone some way to redress the balance, since as a result they can afford to employ expert specialised lawyers.
Most opinions now agree that we should move in Britain towards the idea of strict liability for industrial accidents. The concept of fault should disappear, the only issue being that of damages. These could be assessed by tribunals or statutory compensation boards as in Canada, who could award lump sums for pain and suffering or weekly payments to cover future wage loss The result would be speedier justice, at much lower administrative cost. I t has been argued that the whole area of compensation should be fitted within the framework of the National Insurance Acts, but the Labour lawyers insist that there should be always direct contact between worker and employer, if accidents are to be kept in proportion.
What steps can be taken now to reform the statutory enforcement 16
schemes? For the situation is now chaotic.
There are five separate sa:fety codes governing places of wQ)rk, covering factories, offices, construction, railways, and mines; they are administered by separate Government departments which spend much of their time resolving problems of application. They are enforced by a series of inspectors of differing status, qualification, and powers.
(For example, under the Mines and Quarries Act there is power to imprison and to consult with employees about safety, powers not granted in other industries.)
In 1967, Ray Gunter attempted to prepare a new safety code, consolidating all in one massive piece of safety legislation. A consultative document was circulated at the time and received a very lukewarm response from all sides. The Bill has not moved forward since, and when last seen in July , 1969 was still being contemplated by Barbara Castle.
(Edit: The Roben's committee on Safety and Health in Work, to look into this whole problem, was set up and started work last summer.)
While the present structure exists , however, the worker cannot feel very secure. In 1969 937 firms were prosecuted, and the average fine was less than £5 O. There is no provision in th e safety code for increased penal ties on second or subsequent convictions.
While the calibre of factory insp e ctors is undoubtedly very high, the plain fact is that they do not have sufficient powers. There is no general power to issue binding directions to employers in situations of immediate danger - an essential featur e of safety enforcement in the US. The fines inspectors can impose are much too low (the maximum under the Factories Acts is £300). Yet it is clear from a survey carried out by the inspectorate in 1967 that accidents tend to fall when the Acts are strictly applied.
One 0 f the m 0 s tin t ere sting suggestions from the Labour lawyers is that there should be an employment licence for dangerous trades, which could be withdrawn from firms with bad records. Such a device already exists under SS 2 & 4 of the Mines and Quarries Act, 1954. The analogy with the system under the Road Traffic Acts is obvious, and OI'le feels that the absence of such a system of general application indicates the lobby strength of the British industry.
The Government published a Bill last year to provide for the appointment by trade unions of safety representatives, who would have power in factories to inspect the shop floor, and set up joint safety committees in large firms.
(Edit: This Bill was in committee when Parliament was dissolved last year and so far it has not been re-introduced by the present Government.)
The effeet of the Bill would be to b Fling il:he worker for the first time into direct comil:act with safety enforcement, and should assist greatly work of the factory inspectors. Bill Simpson, general secretary of the Foundry Workers Union (one of the most dangerous trad es) sees the act as a 'major breakthrough' and a p oten t new w eap on in accident preven tion
Whatever pressures the trade union movement can bring, the primary responsibility rests with employers. All accidents are attributable to either unsafe acts or to mechanical or physical hazards , and fault lies mainly with employers
Certainly out of 597 fatal accidents in factories and construction sites in 1968
A WOODWORKING machinist, Henry Samson, borrowed a portable saw from the carpenter's shop and placed it on top of a 4ft high stack of timber pan e ls. When it was plugged in the saw propelled itself from the stack and sliced th e man's arm off b e low the elbow. It was found later that the switch on the saw had be e n taped down perman e ntly in the " on " nosition.
the inspectorate found 262 breaches of the code by employers against si x b y workers.
It is prob able that ess than 10 per cent of accidents ar e unavoidable , for in America 98 per cent of a cc ident s ar e regarded as preven t able .
In spite of th e vivid, if rather unorthodox publicity of bodies like the British Safety Council and Rospa, little or no money is being s pent on researching the vital problems of the cost of accident s and their true caus e The 1967 factor y inspectorate survey itself was unable to reach any firm conclusion on these topi cs because of the absence of official material. The figures in this article although reasonably accurate, were culled from a mass of public and privat e statistics, which have never been properly collected or annotated.
Beckingsale puts it this way: 'We organise against national disasters like fire, crime, and war; we have national preventative organisations with training schools, staff colleges , research establishments, all with the necessary staff. Where the bigger national disaster of accidents is concerned, we have none. The amazing thing is that Britain is not short of the money to do it. The industrial injuries fund has been making a steady profit for 20 years, and its current balance stands at over £340 million. The interest on this alone exceeds £ 15 million a year.
Industrial accidents ccmtinue to soar because they are a dead political issue Let us hope that it does not take an industrial Aberfan to make them a live one.
by W. R. Morris (Chairman, Ashton-under-Lyne SJA Centre)
DO YOU put iodine on a cut? Use ointment on burns? Or a tourniquet to stop severe bleeding? Would you rush an accident victim to hospital at all costs? If you would do any of these, then your first aid is out of date!
But this need not surprise you. In recent years many treatments which were once popular have been radically changed or replaced in the light of new medical knowledge. Here are a few new correct techniques, together with some procedures still widely used but medically out of favour.
Burns and scalds
Cool immediately with cold water if possible, then cover with a sterile or clean dressing. Never use ointments, greases or baking powder; doctors must always scrape them off, which delays treatment and can be excruciatingly painful to the patient. Unsterile grease or paste can contribute to infection, and neither hastens healing. If the clothing is on fire smother the flames and rip the smouldering clothing off. Smouldering clothing produces the most terrible burns. The quicker you act the better.
Cold water relieves pain limits the injury, reduces fluid loss and lessens the need for skin grafting. Always continue the treatment until the pain goes or, in more serious cases, skilled medical aid arrives.
To stop serious bleeding
Grasp the sides of the wound. NEVER, NEVER, apply a tourniquet or constrictive bandage.
Thanks to antibiotics, the day that you dared not touch a wound for fear of 0fection has passed. You can grasp the Sides of the wound and squeeze hard. Pressure for up to 15 minutes will squeeze the blood vessels against tissue, muscle or bone and will stop the flow. 'Fhen replace your grasping fingers with a pad. The pad can be a sterile dressing if you have a first aid kit. If you have not, use the inside of a clean handkerchief or something similar.
Bleeding can generally be stopped by the safe, simple method of direct pressure. Try to elevate the wounded part above the level of the heart, to lower the pressure.
Treatment of wou nds
Don't use antiseptics: cleanse the skin around the wound with soap and water or a spot of detergent and water. Gently dab the wound. Antiseptics may destroy tissue of the wound, retarding healing. Antiseptics are very good for killing germs in drains, but must not be used for wounds.
Wipe the dirt outwards away from the wound, starting at the edges. Time is well spent on cleansing. Wounds free of dead tissue and foreign matter heal quickly and resist infection, but large wounds are best cleaned in hospital. To make sure that other members of your family are not tempted to use any antiseptics, ointments, lotions, iodine germicides and so on, throw them away. Indeed, throw away all old bottles of medicine.
Treatment of shock
Overheating such a patient is bad.
When a person loses blood, his body shuts down circulation through the skin to ensure supplies to the vital organsbrain, heart, lungs. The skin goes pale and cold, and the patient may actually shiver.
To give him more than one blanket may upset this self-protective mechanism and kill him, for heat causes the surface blood vessels to expand and claim more of the blood supply, allowing less for the body's essential needs.
Resuscitation
We now realise that not a second must be wasted if resuscitation is to succeed. A lifesaver bringing a casualty ashore must begin mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-nose resuscitation at the earliest possible moment, and he must have learnt how to do it properly.
The Royal Life Saving Society expects its more highly qualified members to give artificial respiration while swimming with the casualty.
Emergency childbirth
Every day in Britain more than 50 babies are born without expert help. Faced with this emergency, the first aiders should on no account handle the baby roughly or smack him. Hold him carefully head downwards, feet up, and gently wipe away any fluid from his mouth and nose. If, after two minutes, he does not breathe, hold his head well back and ventilate his lungs with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, blowing very gently. Send for the doctor or midwife immediately.
Serious accidents and heart attacks
Restrain the urge for precipitate action. Moving an injured person hastily can be disastrous if he has suffered spinal damage; it can also increase bleeding or cause fatal shock. Unless the victim is exposed to greater dangers, such as fire, give him first aid where he lies and wait for doctors or ambulancemen to move him.
You rarely need to worry a bout rushing a person to hospital if you can give him adequate care on the spot. Indeed, a high speed, weaving drive through traffic often aggravates pain and shock.
In the case of a man smitten with a heart attack, the real killers are frequently anxiety and pain. Both constrict his blood vessels and give his heart even more work at its most critical period. Confident, kindly handling and reassurance will do much to allay anxiety and pain.
Says a St. John Ambulance surgeon: 'Let's hope there'll soon be an end to the 'Emergency Ward Ten' dramas of am bulancemen forsaking immediate, essential first aid in order to get the patient to hospital at unnecessary speed.' 17
by J. Spencer (Southwick Division)
MY APOLOGIES to Shakespeare for mis-appropriating his immortal questi(;)n by Hamlet, but how often I wonder does this apply to Brigade members?
Nowadays there can be but few members who have not their own means of transport and when using it - be it a new car or a lowly push-bike - how often do Brigade members come upon a road accident? When they do, members get an instinctive and immediate reaction to st0P and help, but what about the 'sea of difficulties' which can follow?
Let us examine some of them. The first, of course, is the disp0sal of his car.
U he leaves it close to the accident, it will add to the general blockage of the road. At least it will incur the wrath of the police; at most it will add to the difficulties for the arrival or departure of the ambulance. Obviously then, the member must drive on a little and park off the road, even if this means losing a minute or so walking back. However, if he does this he will be surer that the risk of his car being hit by another vehicle is less.
His next problem is the risk of a 'light fingered' member of the local community visiting his car. It has happened, regrettably. So having removed his first-aid case he should lock his car.
Our member now appears at the scene of the accident and his immediate problem is identification. It is most unlikely that he will be in uniform, so as far as the police are concerned he is just another bystander. It is no use our member approaching a policeman and saying 'Can I help?' If he does, he will probably get an answer to the effect of 'No thanks. All under control'; or perhaps 'The ambulance is on its way'. It is far better for the member to say at the start who he is: 'I'm Smith - St. John Ambulance. Anyone hurt?' A police officer has more to worry about than answering superfluous questions from a lDystanoer.
Our member may arrive to find a police officer treating a casualty, when introduction is easy. Most members first-aid kits have the black and white Brigade sign clearly marked on them, so 18
the member need only offer his kit with the sign uppermost to be immediately identified.
At an accident well-meaning members of the public have always been a problem. Invariably there is one who thinks he knows that little bit more about first-aid than the fully trained and experienced Brigade member, and a polite 'Excuse me, I'm a St. John Ambulance man' may still get the Brigade member precisely nowhere.
One way of solving this problem is to say nothing, but get down to the casualty and take his pulse. Often this will have a salutary effect on bystanders; indeed, one Brigade member who did this was mistaken for a doctor. At least such an action can do no harm, and the Brigade member might even learn something from the casualty's pulse. But at least it will give him time to think what he is going to do next.
The fewer words said by our member to bystanders the better. He should remember, as he is not in uniform, that by talking nineteen-to-the-dozen to onlookers they may well regard him as one of them; whereas the less he says the greater the chance of them paying attention to him should he require their assistance. For there is not really a lot that bystanders can do except to telephone emergency services.
The member may encounter difficulties with the ambulance crew. He must tell them who he is, otherwise he may be politely shouldered out of the way and so be wnable to pass on details of his diagnosis.
If our Brigade member is a 'competition fan' it will be most unwise to start giving the ambulance men instructions as to what to do, even if he has been taught this in competition training. Members who have done county ambulance work will remember their own reactions to people who started telling them what to do when they arrived at accidents.
These are but some of the problems that will confront a member who decides 'Yes' to the question 'To stop or not to stop?'
FOR SOME TIME NOW, all day and every day I suffer this frightful sense of threatened danger, this apprehension of coming ill or approaching death; this presentiment which is doubtless the warning signal of a lurking disease germinating in my blood and my flesh. I am certainly ill. I was so well last month. I have a fever, a frightful fever, or rather a feverish weakness that oppresses my mind as much as my body. I have consulted my doctor, for was getting no sleep. He found that my pulse is rapid, my pupils are dilated, my nerves on edge; but no alarming symptom of any kind. I am to take baths and relax.
My case is truly strange. As night falls, an incomprehensible uneasiness fills me, as if the night concealed a frightful menace. I dine in haste, then try to read the First Aid Manual, but I don't understand the words; can hardly make out the letters. So I walk back and forth in my sitting-room oppressed by a vague fear that I cannot throw off, fear of sleeping and fear of my bed.
About ten o'clock I go up to my room. The instant I am inside the room I am afraid Of what? I never dreaded anything before. It's a queer thing that a mere physical ailment, some disorder in the blood perhaps, the jangling of a nerve thread, a slight congestion, the least disturbance in the functioning of this living machine of ours, so imperfect and so frail, can make a melancholic of the happiest of men and a coward of the bravest. Then I lie down and wait for sleep, as if I were waiting to be executed.
I wait for it, dreading its approach; my heart beats, my legs tremble , my whole body shivers in the warmth of the bed-clothes, until the moment I fall suddenly on sleep, like a man falling into deep and stagnant water, there to drown. I never felt it come, as I used to, this perfidious sleep that lurks near me, spying on me, ready to take me by the hand, shut my eyes, steal my strength. I sleep - for a long time - two or three hours - then a dream - no -a nightmare seizes me. I feel that I am lying down and that I am asleep I feel it and know it And I feel too that someone
approaches me, looks at me, touches me, climbs on the bed, kneels on my chest, takes my neck between his hands and s que e zes squeezes with all his might, strangling me. I struggle madly, in the grip of the frightful helplessness that paralyzes me in the dream. I try to cry out. can't, I try to move. I can't. Panting with the most frightful efforts I try to turn around to fling off this creature who is crushing and choking me But I can't.
And suddenly I wake up terrified, bathed in sweat. J switch on the light. It is seven o'clock - the day of the National. A shiver runs down my back a tightness develops across my Chest, ' a feeling of sickness grips me I realize that I have been awake half the night. feel tired, worried and sick. I manage to crawl out of bed and immediately wish I were dead. I decide to have a wash in cold water , but it makes me feel worse The journey down the stairs take an age. The kitchen is cold, the taps drip. I put the kettle on and immediately I have to return to the little room. Ten minutes later , feeling miserable, I crawl back to the kitchen and find the kettle nearly dry. I refill it.
By this time the family are disturbing and shouting for tea and breakfast The smell of cooking makes me feel worse and I visit the little room again. Everybody is saying what a lovely day it is, and wishing me luck and saying this is your big day; this makes me feel awful and back to the little room I go. Whence come these mysterious influences that change our happiness to dejection and our seU-confidence to discouragement?
Eventually J get ready and prepare to set out Now what time was I to meet the others ? 8.15 , I think; or was it 8 o'clock ? I hope I'm not late. I feel ill again.
At the station meet the others. Why do they look so well; why am I the only one who feels ill? On the train we try some feeble jokes but this doesn't last and we sit depressed and miserable.
At the hall I feel worse, and we are marshalled off into a waiting room with two grim-faced beings glaring at us and
2pm we are called I wish I were dead. We are conveyed to a room; a grubby piece of paper is pushed into my hand - I try to read it; I'm pushed forward - a sudden shudder runs through me, not a shudder of cold but a strange shudder of anguish. I quicken my pace, uneasy at being alone in this competition room ; unreasonably, stupidly terrified by the profound solitude I look at the doctor - he looks away - I feel worse. Now what did the trainer say? I forget my training My mouth is dry . stumble out a few words. What's next? 'Time' someone calls and I have not even started.
almost daring us to speak. Every team looks at each other, wishing it was over. Nobody speaks, nobody smiles. I feel ill, but after looking at the stewards I decide I'm better off where I am The stewards bring in the telegrams and cards. We try to read them and wish we could change places with the senders. Another steward brings in tea (wish it was bran d y). We drink a little and feel worse.
Suddenly a steward enters and calls 'A'. A ripple of applause runs around the room and out goes the first team Lucky people getting it over with. As the day wears on I feel worse and worse and at
A team test follows. Where is the telephone? Who has the kit? Where's the bystander gone? I blame everybody get hot. Damn the ambulance driver! Why doesn't he hurry? And then 'Time'. It's over.
Not really over. The trainer glares at us: Why didn't you do this and this and this? I feel better and tell 'him to 'Drop Dead' ; that makes me feel a lot better. Later in the afternoon the results and we sit there nervous and depressed. I feel ill again
It's nearly over now. We didn t win People say 'Hard luck' and 'Better luck next year.' WillI be back?
You bet I will.
NATIONAL FIRST AID COMPETITION RESULTS:
The Challenge trophies were awarded to the following teams :
Men
Pim Challenge Trophy (championslup): Metropolitan Police 'z' Division; Police Review Challenge Cup (runners-up): Dorset and Bournemouth Constabulary
Whyte Challenge Cup (third place): Sheffield and Rotherham Constabulary.
Women
City of London Rose Bowl (championship): Metropolitan Police; Sussex Constabulary Rose Bowl (runners-up): Cheshire Constabulary.
RESULTS
Men
by T. N. Rudd Faber £1.50
This is a practical handbook for guidance on nursing the elderly sick. It has been re-written, new chapters added, and the book has been brought up to date.
Those caring for their own elderly sick at home will find much helpful advice: those nursing in geriatric wards will find the book of great value concerning the care and understanding of the patients and their problems. N.C.
Volume II, Gynaecology
by Derek Llewellyn-Jones Faber £2.75
This is the second volume of a pair by this author and it fulfulls the promise shown by the first volume. It is written in a clear concise form but does assume some basic knowledge of the subject. It is primarily for medical students and housemen, but would be useful to any nurse.
It deals with diseases of women covering the anatomy and physiology the reproductive organs, such topics as menstruation, infertility, contraception, abortion, the menopause, displacements and new growths of the uterus and related structures. Brigade members would find it an interesting and informative reference book and the excellent diagrams aid understanding of the text; but I feel its use is limited and it is better suited to medical and nursing students.
Rosemary Bailey MTD, RNT, DN.
MIGRAINE - EVOLUTION OF A COMMON DISORDER
by Oliver W. Sacks Faber £2.50
The foreward of this pleasing book states that migraine has been described for at least 2,000 years and the author does not hesitate to draw on descriptions from historical sources, many of which bridge the years by their vividness.
The book is divided into four parts, the first of which describes in exhaustive detail the multifarious symptoms of migrainous attacks as well as the aura (Greek for vapour) which sometimes precedes the attack.
The next part attempts to divide the disease into four main groups according to the author's theories, while the third part discusses physiological, biological and psychological approaches. On page 138 is an interesting review of the incidence, and on page 147 is a vivid description of 'the average migraineur' which should be read by all who attach 20
this label to a patient. The chapter on psychological approaches would not be acceptable to all doctors.
The fourth and, understandably, briefest section is on therapeutics and confirms the pre-eminence of ergotamine. Mention is made of the role of Methysergide and its dangers.
There are two rnteresting appendices, a glossary of case histories, a selected bibliography and an adequate appendix.
This is an interesting book which anyone concerned with this puzzling condition will read with profit. It is very reasonably priced and well produced.
R.M.A
MILD DIABETES (15p) THE MEDICO-SOCIAL ASPECTS OF BRINGING UP A DIABETIC CHILD (lOp)
THE CARE OF THE ELDERLY DIABETIC (12%p)
The British Diabetic Assoc. 3-6 Alfred Place, London W.C.I.
This most helpful triology produced by the British Diabetic Association covers the care of the mild to moderate diabetic from childhood to later life; the first two appear to be new publications but judging by the simplicity of style in which they are written and the sound clinical advice given, it is not surprising to note that the third manual dealing with the older diabetic cases is now reprinting for the first time, and, one is quite certain, not for the last time.
Mild Diabetics deals with the management at home of the mild diabetic not requiring insulin; intended primarily for general practitioners it will undou btedly interest other groups involved professionally. Having dealt with diagnosis, treatment and control, very helpful advice on the education of the d i a betic ensures that the essen tial personal approach is not overlooked. Likewise the sections on foot conditions and social factors, particularly how and where to get help, are most useful. Two appendices dealing with dietetics for the diabetic and detailed instructions for urine testing round off this very much recommended work.
The Medico-Social Aspects of Bringing up a Diabetic Child records the results of a 20 year follow up of 31 children seen in Leicester Royal Infirmary : it mainly comprises a report on the progress of events from the formation of the Diabetic Department at Leicester Royal Infirmary in 1945 and describes the initial difficulties encountered, but much useful advice emerges, particularly on the role of the health visitor; a series of tables giving break-down figures for blood glucose levels, ketonuria and hypoglycaemia and other chemical items reveals something of the tremendous effort which Dr. Joan
Walker and her staff have put into th.e care of diabetic children. Th.is booklet will be most useful to any person dealing with the problems encountered by diabetic children and their parents.
The Care of the Elderly Diabetic is written in the same simple manner which makes reading a pleasure; it is intended to help matrons and wardens of old people's homes, but doctors, nurses and other medical auxiliaries can learn a great deal from its pages Rightly, the importance of skin and foot care in the elderly is stressed and the need to institute and maintain a regular life without slipping into boredom or apathy briefly sums up the lesson to be learned from this very useful guide.
In all three booklets one reads the good counsel of a very understanding physician : a quotation from the last of this set of three sums up her dedicated approach to diabetics of all ages : 'the fact that the new resident is a diabetic should not create any undue problems which kindly common sense cannot overcome'.
J.S . B.
HEALTH EDUCATION INDEX
B. Edsall & Co., Ltd., 56 Grosvenor Hill, London, W.l.
£3.15 and £1.75 (soft cover) This is a mine of information on health education and would be most useful to those engaged in this activity. Some of our doctors would find it particularly useful.
Under 154 subject headings, ranging from abortion to worms, it lists books, leaflets, films, filmstrips , tapes and other teaching aids. There is a useful list of organisations who help those in need, a section on posters , and a list of sources of supply.
It is not specifically directed to first aid and, therefore has a limited value in this field. It is prepared for the Health Visitors Association. G.H.
The Priory of Scotland has acquired, through the generosity of Major James Watt , a new headquarters and chan cery at Wemyss House , 21 St. John Str eet, Edinburgh.
Onc e in th e possession of Lord Wemy ss - hence its name - it is one of the few remain ing original houses in the street, th e building of which was one of the Jast major projects of old Edinb urgh before the new town was laid out in the eighteenth century. St John Str ee t was for a time the smartest quarter of Edinburgh , being famous for the characters who lived there ; they included the great writer Tobias Smollet (one of whos e descendants is a Knight of the Priory of Scotland) and the eccentric wit Lord Monboddo, who in imitation of the Romans u sed to give su pper parties in the classical manner. The street it se lf runs towards St. J ahn's Hill from the site of St. John's Cross, which marked the boundary between the city proper and the a ncient burgh of Cannongate. As these nam es imply the ground upon which it was built has for centuries been believed to have been land possessed b y the Order of St. John in the Middle Ages. Indeed there is a persistent and ancient tradition that this was Templar land, acquired by the Hospitallers after the suppression of their rivals.
The hou se is a fine example of eighteenth century Scottish architecture. The top storey is taken up with a caretaker's flat, but we are able to have decent secretarial offices and a committee room, besides a magnificent Chapter Hall and a splendid library. It was bought for £4 500, the money being donated for the purpose by Major Watt who on this occasion has surpassed even his previous acts of generosity to the Order. It is hoped that some of the costs of repairs and decoration can be met by others who might wish to follow Major Watt's example. For this purpose separate estimates are being prepared for different parts of the building so that an individual will be able to donate the sum required to decorate a specific room. I will give readers of the Review reports on how the work on the house is progressing.
Aberdeen Mountain Rescue Team
On December 12 -a dry and moonlit night - the team was out on a training exercise when at 8.30pm it was learned that a party of three venture scouts from Dundee was overdue on a walk from Glen Cava to Braemar. Together with the police and the Braemer mountain rescue team , the members of our team searched the area At 2.10 in the morning four
WALES
LARGEST MILITARY CLASS IN FIRST AID
Headed by the General Officer Commanding, Major General A. J. WOOdrow, MBE , and Mrs Woodrow, twenty-one members of the staff of Army Headquarters Wales and their wives were presented with first aid certificates at Brecon during January The classes, held at the headquarters during the autumn,
were the largest military classes in first aid ever held in the Priory for Wales area of St. John.
The presentation was made by SJA's County Commissioner , Lt Col. 1. F. Q. Maclaine, who was accompanied by Major K. R. Morgan-J ones, the SJ A Association County Organiser. Both Col. Maclaine and Major Morgan-Jones are members of
members of our team found the scouts by Lock Esk. They were cold, wet and hungry but otherwise in a reasonable condition. None of the three scouts had good equipment and when they were found they had no food. They were carrying a map and a compass which they claimed was showing a 15 degree error. It was checked and in fact found to be accurate. They had no idea of basic navigation and were unable even to iden tify Lock Esk
On January 5, Mr. W. A Marshall the team leader, was told by the police that there had been an accident on Carbh Caire Mar on Braeriach in the Cairngorms. The weather was bad so the most experienced members of the team were called out A fifteen-strong party left at 10.15pm , arriving with the police and Braemar team at the site of the accident at four the next morning. Falling snow and a deep powder covering made the return trek of eighteen miles very arduous and the rescue operation was not completed until 10.30am.
This accident happened in the most remote part of the Cairngorms, but the behaviour of Mr. Alan Frost, the companion of the injured man, deserves praise. He went down from the scene of the accident to the refuge hut where they were staying and returned to his friend with sleeping bags. He then made his way to where he could raise the alarm and after that again returned to his companion so that he could guide in the rescue parties.
Winter in the mountains can be hard.
J.R-S.
the staff of Army headquarters. Instructors were Lt. Col. 1. F. Q. Maclaine, Dr. P. L. Benson, Sennybridge, divisional surgeon for st. John, and Staff Sgt. R. Tayler RAMC, of the Medical Reception Station , Sennybridge , who spent 10 years as a· RAMC NCO with the Special Air Service.
ANDOVER-at the Centre's AGM, chaired by Mr. Cecil Horne , sat isfactory reports were pres e nted by th e secretary and treasurer. Mr. B. Sokerville was elected secretary in place of Mrs . Wil son , who founded the Centre in 1949.
Commander E. A. Morrison, Commander SJ A Hampshire, expressed gratitude to Mrs. Wilson for the expansion of the Centre over the years. Unfortunately , du e to the postal strike, the gift to Mrs. Wilson had not arrived. The Mayor, Mr s. Ruby Lynn President of the Centre , present e d her with a token card for a Caithness cut-glass bowl and six sherry glasses, saying 'These people do such work without looking for thanks or favour. On behalf of the people of Andover , thank you very much '.
A second annual cheque of £500 was presented to Marjorie, Countess of Brecknock , County President , who had opened the hall in 1963 , as part of a promise from Bonhomie to SJ A Andover to payoff the balance of the debt on their headquarters. Handing over th e cheque Mr. B. J. Davies Chairman of Bonhomie, said 'A debt is money that cannot be paid. I hope that you will treat this building fund as an account that wil l be paid'
Receiving the cheque Lady Brecknock said: 'I am quite overcome. It is a most wonderful gift. For to have a debt hanging round one's neck is a terrible millstone'
The evening closed with refreshments served by members of the Andover nursing division. Everyone enjoyed this evening of 'Merger'.
EXMOUTH-Wendy Curtis, 17-year-ol d
Exmouth school-girl and SJ A cadet is th e new Devon county senior women' s cross-country champion and winner of the Warren cup. Wendy recently won the 2 V2-mile race over Newton Abbot racecourse in 23mins 29secs defeating Devon's top long-distance girl runners in her first year as a se nior. She has also
played table tennis and hockey for Devon juniors.
Another Exmouth nursing cadet, Ann Curryer, who plays hockey for Devon juniors and with Wendy and nursing member Rita Phillips was in the Exmouth team, went to Lugano , Switzerland a short time ago as England's sole representative in BBCjTV's 'It's a Knockout' competition semi-final.
Led by a local band, about 150 members of Exmouth divisions marched to Holy Trinity church recently for the dedication of their two new ambulances and a mobile first-aid post.
The annual dinner of Exmouth SJA divisions was attended by 120 members and friends, including many Devon county officers. Following the dinner, Dr. Hardy, who is leaving the district after 18 years, was presented with a silver rose bowl and a S t. John tankard from the divisions. He also received a life membership cer tificate from the Association com mitt ee. Th e County
Commissioner Major T. C. Gracey pres en ted nursing members Linda Joys and Lynn Perret , recently promoted from cadets, with Grand Prior badges.
PL YMOUTH-South-West Devon and East Cornwall co unty were ple ase d to receive a two-day visit from the Chief Commander and Commissioner-in-Chief, Lieut.-Gen. Sir William Pike and his chief staff officer , Wing Com. T. W. C. Fazan, during February
After being welcomed by the Commander and Commissioner , Sqn.-Ldr. J. E G Hancock, they attended the annual dinner-dance, where Sir William responding to the toast 'The Guests', proposed by Mr. P E. I. Foot chairman of the St. John Council, stressed the need for greater co-operation between St. John divisions He said that in many parts of the country this get-together of divisions had already taken place with great success It was more economic and efficient. He also said that it was important to encourage younger members and give them positions of responsibility.
Later, Gen Pike presented a retirement gift to Mrs. E. M. Wood, Assistant County Superintendent.
Mrs. Wood joined St. John Ambulance in 1939 and was a member of Plymouth's Sherwell Nursing Division until 1946, When she was appointed county staff officer for nursing cadets. For 8V2 years she was regional representative on the Cadet Advisory Committee
In 1951 Mrs. Wood was admitted to the Order of St. John as a Serving Sister, and was promoted to Officer Sister in 1956. She became Assistant County Superintendent in 1963, was a member of the Plymouth and District St. John Association committee and now assists with the St. John library service at Greenbank Hospital.
Her husband, Dr. T E. Wood was the
Brigade County Surgeon from 1951 to 1966.
On the Saturday Gen. Pike and Wing Com. Fazan were at a coffee morning at Greenbank Methodist Church Hall, where they met members of the county and informally discussed St. John work
After Sir William had explained the policy of the merger of the Association and the Brigade the morning ended with an 'Any Questions' session in which cadet matters were discussed In answer to a question on practical training, he said that football matches and motor-cycle scrambles were about the only avenues left in which members of the SJA could obtain practical training now that it had been decided nationally they could not work alongside local-authority employed ambulance crews. This fact was deplored and he added that SJA had been 'squeezed out of the service' and no longer had the opportunity of gaining practical training in going out to these awful accidents'.
The nursing section, he said, was not affected so much by the change, but as far' as the ambulance brigade was
concerned he would welcome any ideas of how it could obtain practical training.
WESTON-SUPER-MARE-A collection in memory of nursing member Miss Dorothy Day (See Obituary) resulted in £ I 0 donated to cancer research and the balance to buy an 'aspirator' for our nursing division; a silver cup in memory of Miss Day will be awarded annually for public duties.
A new Corps newsletter, edited by Cpl. S . F. J. Davis of 'A' Division , has just been issued Newsletter No. 2 is being prepared.
During the last two years the town's summer carnival committee has donated 1, 600 guineas to the local hospital. This year our Corps is to benefit from the carnival.
OBITUARY
Miss Dorothy Day, 69, Weston-superMare, nursing member for 25 years with 34,044V2 duty hours.
Charles Wood , OStJ, 65 , area superintendent , East Devon, 47 years service.
CLU ES TO CROSSWORD No.4 (71) Compiled by W. A. Potter
ACROSS:
1. Compressed against the humerus to arrest severe bleeding from an upper limb. (8 6) 9. Clever Len has a bit of grey matter. (S.4) 10. Become mature in strip engagement. (S) 11. Living to a great age (8) 12. Its lower extremity forms the lateral malleolus. (6) 14 Type of fracture occurring in Copenhagen. (4) IS Sli ced trout playing an important role in nurse's training ( S ) 16 Part o f algebraic expression for p €riod of pregnancy (4) 17 For example the written message stating th e circumstances of an accident or illness (4) 19. Atmosphere to be avoided when dressing wounds. (S) 20. Employed Un ite d States po ck et edition. (4) 24. Checked a German in red (6) 2S. Organ providing foetus with food and oxygen. (8) 27 Di r ection mother follows for evacuation of bowels. (S) 28. Saved from decay and putrefaction . (9) 29. A part of spinal cord carrying sensations to the brain (9.S)
DOWN:
1. May describe a person under mental stress or the cauda equina (6.2 6) 2. Ran in torn gear to make preparations (7) 3. Listen ed to the warning. (6) 4. Socket for the head of the femur. (10) S. Looks A .I. at' first , but is not in good health (4) 6 Sluggish and inactive tripod reassembled. (6) 7. Burst a hernia. (7) 8. Lawl es s amputee taking a gambler'S money (3-S .6) 13 No live part i n vessel carrying products of digestion to liver. (6.4) 18 An instant addendum for three-headed muscle extending forearm ( 7) 21. Lubricant in joint cavities and tendon sheaths. (7) 22. Woman, yet largely male. (6) 23. Characteristic manner of speaking. (6) 26. Potato for the eye surgeon. (4)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No.3 (71)
ACROSS:
1. Vagus ; 4. Malign.ant ; 9. Running nose ; 10 Arm; 11. Cafe; 13. Media; 14. User; 16. Lent.i.go; 17. Ear-shot; 20 Anaemia; 22. Aerosol; 23 Weep; 24 Prick ; 2S. F.air; 28. Owl ; 29. Joint lesion; 31. Gastritis ; 32 Pulse.
DOWN:
1. V.aricell.a; 2 Gin ; 3. Sh.in; 4. Magnet.o; S. Leo nine ; 6. Grey, 7. Anaesthesia; 8. Tamer; 12. Fontanelles; IS. Firm; 18. R.A R .E; 19. Tolerance; 21. Air-lift; 22 Ascites; 23. Wrong; 26. A.jar ; 27. He.L.P; 30. Ill.
24
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Then a friend recommended Complan. And he got the nourishment he needed in a form that was easy to take Complan provides the right kind of nourishment and is easy to digest even during illness.
When someone vou know needs nutritional help, recommend Complan
Complan ,,,demo , k the food they can face during illness
SAY
'Savlon' Liquid and 'Savlon' Cream are indispensable to your first-aid kit They gently clean away dirt , killing the germs that would infect the wound. The antiseptics in both products are powerful, safe. They were discovered by ICI and are now us ed extensively by doctors and hospitals in thi $ country and overseas.
Order
by Frank White
THE PURPOSE of first aid competitions is to raise the standard of first aid training to the highest possible level under conditions as proximate to thos e of a real emlugency as can be simulated. Whilst the examinations conducted for the first aid certificates of the voluntary first aid organisations provide an objective test of the candidates knowledge , it is only in competition work that a first aider may learn to apply this knowledge to the diagnosis, treatment and disposal of casualties in an emergency situation.
It follows that a first aid competition is a training exercise I t is not a social event, a spectator sport, or a means of gaining prestige by winning cups. If a competition is to be of any value as a training exercise its keynote must be realism. I would venture to suggest that many persons who hold valid fiFst aid certificates and are endowed w i th a vast theoretical knowledge of tke contents of the manual would be hard put to practice first aid in an emergency situation. Any competition which fails to reproduce em ergency conditions as nearly as possible is a waste of the time of both the organisers and the participants. There are many such.
The basic requirements for a Ul seful first eornpetition are:
1. Enthusiastic judges, with a sound knowledge of first aid.
2. Trained patients who combine a sound knowledge of the signs and symptoms of the conditie)ll from which they are supposed to be suffering with aN ability to reproduce them accurately.
3. A realistic setting with injuries that are related to that setting.
2
4. An accurate and detailed marking sheet which shows the team where it went wrong
If any team expects to find more than one of the above factors present in an average competition they are doom e d to rapid disillusionment.
Too many judges at competitions seem to regard the event either as an opportunity to display a frustrated talent for theatrical production or to ri de their pet hobby horse in public befor e a captive audience. The latter are relatively harmless. Most teams have gained by bitter experience a sound working knowledge of their local judges and are well aware that 'X' will require his patient to be placed )n the coma position regardless of whether he is suffe ring from compression or ingrowing toenails and that 'Y' will always set diabetic coma
More dangerous, not only for individual teams, but for the competition world as a whole, is the latent Cecil B. De Mille. Given two hours on a Sunday afternoon in a dusty parish hall with a cast of two old age pensioners and a member of the local youth club, he will essay a team test that would strain the combined resources of the National Theatre and 20th Century Fox.
The fata flaw in this type of competition is the utter absence of any degree of realism. The parish hall is the parish hall. It cannot be converted into a dockside, a racecourse or the scene of a rail disaster. The type of thing met with at this sort of competition is a piano bearing a card with the legend, 'Railway engine', a child's pedal car resting on a foot to simulate a road accident, a chalk ]ine on a dusty floor to represent the edge of the sea (step over it and you are held to be i n stantly drowned) At one competition the patient with a fra ctured neck of the femur w as out of sight of the audience behind a substantial piece of
said the casualty waving his arm in the alr; in fact this patient was supposed to ha¥e sustained a compound fracture of the numerous . At one and the same competition a team had marks deducted on the team test for 'unnecessary commentary' while on the individual test a judge said to a competitor, 'You have done it all very well, but I can't give you many marks because you didn't tell me what you were doing. You must rem em ber this is a competition'. A judge should make clear to each team what his policy is in this respect, if he dislikes dialogue he must see to it that his patients are of such skill that it is unnecessary.
The chief defect of marking sheets lies in the 'block' system of awarding marks
This consists of say 10 marks being
awarded for some aspect of the test This makes life easy for the judge 'Treatment of fractured ribs l0 marks'.
But the team who are awarded 2 or 6 or 8 marks are unable to see in what particular aspect of their treatment they failed; they have l earned nothing. In a worthwhile marking sheet the operation is divid ed into stages an d marks aw arded for each stage. This d emands concentration on the part of the judge If he is unwiHing to concentrate he would be better employed relaxing at home.
Competitors who h ave trained hard and with enthusiasm have the right to expect to be properly judged. This further requires that there shou ld be a judge for each patient and that each stage in the diagnosis , treatment and disposal should
be set out on th e marking sheet , with points awarded in proportion to their respective importance. There should also be a penalty clause to al10w for the deduction of marks for such things as the rough handling of the patient. In this respect it is useful if the patient is give n a proportion of marks for those aspects of the treatment that only he ca n judge , i.e. 'Was your head supported throughout ?' I am convinced that the only training that is of value in any activity is that which prepares the student for the actual conditions that he will face in practice In first aid training this is only don e by competitions, and it is therefore vital to the first aid movement t hat no consideration other than realism should enter into the staging of such competitions.
furniture. The judge wanted her carried into full view of the s pectat ors to be treated, 'so that they could see what was happening' All the teams that treated th e fracture on the spot in accordance with the manual were penalised
At these com p etitio ns the on l y thing a team can do is keep their eyes open, read all the lab els and not be disheartened by the result, which is after all by way of a lottery.
Th e most important person at a real emergency is the casualty. Thi s also should be the case at a competition. This can only be so if the casualties are trained and the injuries acc urately reprodu ced so that the presence of the judge can be forgotten. This h a ppy state of affairs is rare. Too often the casualt ies combine enthusiasm with cluelessness, bei ng recruited at the last moment and having only the most sketchy knowledge of their signs and symptoms, and mak e up b ei ng inaccurate or non-existent. In such a case diagnosis may only be arriv e d at b y a process of cross exam ination of the judge ; this often gives the impression of an old time music hall act and again destroys all r ea lism.
At present one of the greatest problems facing competitors is that of whether or not to carryon such a dialogue with the judge. Ideally , with a pro p erly train e d , responsive, ac ting cas ualty no questions need to be directed to the judge. Th e danger arises when the requirement s of the judge are in advance of the abilities of the casualty The judges marking sheet often provides penalties for Unnecessary questions or commentm:y'.
Yet the patient h as little or no knowledge of the symptoms he is meant to portray.
At one competition the first aider wishing to eliminate a fracture of th e arm asked the 'casualty' if he could raise it. 'Yes'
by D. Teify
MANY comments are written about those who part ic i pa te in com peti tive first aid ; and most of them are taken in good faith by the competitor who does not answer back.
But I feel the time has come to air the views of those Brigade mem bers who have this keen competitive spirit. These comments hav e been col1ected from teams from England and Wales , with some experience of my own since my introduction to first aid i n 1932.
Teams are usua11y instruct e d to report to a compound by a certain time, so le t us first examine the co mpound More often than not, they are small rooms with little ventilation and half the amount of seating required. Teams are locked into
these boxes, sometimes for hours without food or drink , especially so with cadet teams. I am sure that most competitors would like to be able to buy a cup of tea etc, and would most certainly welcome the opportunity for a wash-and-brush-up after hours of travelling to the competition.
Next we come to the 'Stewards'. It is difficult to obtain the services of good stewards for this very thankless task, but those appointed should be fully briefed that no unauthorised person should be allowed near the 'compound' until after the teams have competed They should also remember to give the same assistance to the first competing team as to the last team. This is a common fault, as stewards
are often not given a proper briefing before the competition.
The next item is 'casualty faking'. This has improved greatly over the last few years, and is of help to judge , com petitor and onlooker, but a piece of 'plasticine' on the front of the knee-cap with a little bruising does not look like a sprained knee. To arrive at hi s diagno sis the competitor must have 'si gns ', 'sy mp to ms ' and 'history' Therefore the casualty should know the difference between a fracture' and a dislo catio n' , and symptoms of 's hock ', 'i nternal haemorrhage' etc and should rem em ber that they are the same for every team . Setting : Here again , with the limited resources availabl e, most competitions are
of demonstrations against the
Relations Bill.
very good, but if there is a ear crash and the casualties are in the car, the seats cannot be removed in 12 minutes with0ut metal burning equipment. Furthermme, a chalk line on the floor does not resemble a wall.
Timekeeping: Please let us do away with the wrist-watch as a time piece for competition. Stop watches are the answer. Timekeepers should be reminded to give their full attention to the test in progress. During the last two years I have been present at competitions where the test has over run by at least a minute because the timekeeper was talking to a friend. If we have to work to a time limit, then please time correctly.
Judging: Many times we hear the judge remark that the standard of certain teams was not very high. Do you think that the first team out in a competition has fair play? No! Why? Because many judges do not make out the tests, so they are not really acquainted with the marking sheet until after the first two teams have finished.
Even when judges do make out their
own tests, but have them typed by someone else, 0ften they still have difficulty in marking with complete assurance until one or two teams have competed. Competitors would prefer to see a dummy run first to familiarise judge, stewards, casualties, etc, with details of the test.
Teams would also prefer judges to mark the test sheet as the test progresses rather than to rely on memory.
Block marking is another sore point; more detail would give teams with first aid knowledge and the ability to use it a better chance. A block mark for finding a fracture is fine; but how are you to find out if the competitor realises that there are some fractures with special signs and symptoms?
There is also a difference between the 'cadet' and the 'adult' books. I watched a team of cadets give the correct treatment for bleeding from the palm of the hand, but the judge told them they had not correctly placed the bandage for the fist, and went on to demonstrate the method from the 'adult' book. These cadets knew the judge was wrong, bu t there was
FIRST-AID for coma due to drug overdosage is essentially the same as for any other unconscious patient. The following routine should theref ore be adopted whether unconsciousness is due to sudden illness, attempted suicide, drug abuse, or even a simple fainting attack. In practice, it may be impossible to distinguish between them, though a person who has fainted will usually recover before there has been time to call an ambulance.
1. Do not panic. Do not throw cold water over the patient. Do not move him unless it is necessary for his own safety (if he has fallen near a fire, for instance). There is unlikely to be any immediate danger to life, provided breathing is maintained.
2. Place the patient face downward on the floor (or a bed), without a pillow, in the semi-prone position with the head turned to lOne side. This prevents choking due to vomiting and stops the teHilgue falling backwards into the throat. On no account should an unconscious person be propped up in a chair or aUowed to lie on the back.
3. Remove any false teeth, see that the mouth and throat are cleaF, and then hold the chin up to ease breathing. Loosen collar and any tight clothing around the abdomen. Try and olDtam someone to help. 4
nothing they could do or say.
Also cadets shou[d be judged 0111 their ability only , with no sympathetic marking for the smallest competitors, as I've wifnessed; an open competition for cadets speaks for itself , they are all cadets.
Ambulance car arrives: All ambulance cars have drivers, and they are trained first aiders , so please allow them at least to open the car doors and prepare their own stretcher. No more remote control.
Summing up and reading of marks: Most competitors travel long distances to competitions. Some return home to go straight to work. Everyone gets tired and hungry. We realise, of course that people have to be thanked for their invaluable services, but a little less talking after the event would be appreciated by all. An example should be taken from the Welsh Brigade Finals and the Brigade Finals in London 1970.
All competitors are unanimous in their praise for the people who organise and judge these competitions, but they fe el that by expressing just a few of their complaints , future competitions can only lmprove.
byGeorgeBirdwood
4. Telephone the emergency services (dial 999), and ask for 'ambulance'. Give your name and address, and explain that you have an unconscious patient, thought to be suffering from an overdose of drugs , who requires urgent removal to hospital. In such cases it is not essential for the patient to be seen by a doctor first.
5. Telephone the doctor to enquire if he is immediately available. Say the ambulance has been called, but do not waste time on repeated calls to other doctors.
6. Check that patient's breathing is still satisfactory, the mouth clear and chin raised. If necessary, keep warm with blankets, but not hot water bottles.
7. If the patient can be left, search for tablets, bottles, pill boxes (even empty ones), syringes, ampoules etc., or any other evidence (prescriptions, hospital attendance cards, name and address of doctor) that might help in identifying the drugs taken. Take them to the hospital together with any vomited material. Without such evidence, the doctor may be unable to tell what drug or drugs have been taken, and may not know what treatment is required.
8. If there is still time, telephone the casualty department of the local hospital, and advise them to expect an unconscious patient pmbalDly sufferiThg from an overdose of drugs, and inform the
casualty department which drug, if there is evidence available
9. Wait for the ambulance to arrive. Ensure that patient is placed on a stretcher still in the semi-prone position without pillows and with the head to one side. Never try to get a sleepy or unconscious patient to drink , or make him sick.
If breathing fails in an unconscious patient, this may be simply due to obstruction of the throat by dentures , vomit or the tongue falling back - all of which can be cleared rapidly. It is of no avail to proceed with artificial respiration unless such obstacles are removed, and indeed their removal and in particular the placing of the patient in the coma position , may be all that is necessary to restore breathing.
If, after this procedure, breathing does not return, then no time must be wasted in applying mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
If a patient is still fully conscious after taking an overdose by mouth, make him sick by pushing a spoon handle or finger down the throat. Then give a drink of strong salt water (about two tablespoons of salt dissolved in a tumbler of water) and make him sick again.
This article is reprinted from Appendix 1 of The Willing Victim, A Parent's Guide to Drug Abuse (Secker and Warburg, 1969) by kind permission of the author and pu blishers.
by Wm. Herring
HOW WELL do you know the Order's Patron Saint? Most of us know the date of his birth, June 24, in the year that was to become Anno Domini. Many know from the gospel of Luke the physician of the event leading up to his birth, during the terrible time of Herod, Tetrarch of Judea; of how an Angel of God came down and prophesied to Zacharias, a priest of the Temple, that his wife Elizabeth should conceive a child in her old age. The full account can be read in Luke, Chapter I, verse 5.
Some will know of John's death by beheading on August 29, 31AD One account is given in Matthew Chapter 14. But what of the years between?
Much new evidence was brought to light in 1947 by the discovery near the Dead Sea of caves that held sacred scrolls from the library of a monastery that was flourishing during Christ's time on earth.
Some of this evidence from the Dead Sea Scrolls suggests that John was not brought up by the Hebrew sect that Luke mentioned but by another but equally strict sect, the Essenes, spending his noviciate in the Qumran monastery
When Matthew, chapter 3, takes up the story of John, he was by then a young man of 26 years and certainly still in the area of the Qumran monastery, in the desert wilderness at the northern end of the Dead Sea He was at that time devoting his life to prayer and meditation, dressed only in a camel hair robe and leather girdle. By the following year he was a renowned and respected figure , both at the two trading posts where major tracks crossed the desert and at the Jordan towns of Aenon in the north and Bethany where the Jordan flows into the Dead Sea.
On his wanderings around this desert region, living on only water, locusts and wild honey, he gathered a great following from the towns and cities, some to hear his preaching of the good life and the spirit of the Mosaic Law, and to be baptised. Others came who saw in him the long awaited Messiah. At this time, 27AD, Jesus of Nazareth came up from Galilee to Aenon and was baptised by John, and, as Jesus came up from the
river, the Spirit of God descended as a dove and lighted upon Jesus, while a voice from on high called out 'This is my Son in whom I am well pleased'.
From here on Jesus and John continue their separate ways, both preaching a better way of life, and drawing greater multitudes until we learn of his death by beheading at the instigation of Salome in Herod's fortress city of Machaerus, 31 AD. Equally detailed accounts of his death can be found in the writings of Matthew chapter 14, Mark chapter 6 verse 17, and the 1st Century historian Joseph Ben Mathias's 'Jewish Wars'.
Our tale, however, is not yet over for John's followers removed his body from Machaerus and hid it. How exactly the Knights of St. John obtained the body's right hand is not exactly known, but as they originated from the Greek Orthodox monastery of st. John Baptist in 1113 AD , perhaps the hand was already there
{)I£"·D Ave uC;, 2qc A·"!) .31
as a relic. However, it was in the knights' possession when they left Acre and sailed for Cyprus in 1291 AD. They still had John's right hand when Napoleon drove them from Malta in 1798. They took it on their wanderings through Europe and when in 1805 they were given sanctuary in St. Petersburg, Russia, it was entrusted to Czar Paul St. John's right hand remained in the Winter Palace at Petrograd until the revolution in 1917. It was next heard of in 1919 in the possession of the Dowager Czarina Marie in Copenhagen. When last heard of in Belgrade in 1931 it lay in Belgrade's Royal Chapel, the property of the King of Yugoslavia. Where is it now? After 40 years can it be traced? How sad to lose so recently such a link with the past. However, one consolation is the other hand lies in a museum in Constantinople, Turkey. Could it not be purchased by the Order?
5
JAMAICA
Alcan Jamaica Ltd., a subsidiary of Alcan Aluminium Ltd., Montreal, has been mining bauxite and converting the ore into alumina in J amaica since 1952. The Company has plants at Kirkvine and at Ewarton and employs 240 0 Jamaicans.
Alcan recognizes the value of first aid training in a chemical plant where daily use is made of strong caustic solutions and other potentially toxic s)Jbstances.
For this reason the company has welcomed and encouraged the work of St. John Ambulance in its two plants.
Two of the company's senior executives are involved in the control of St. John Ambulance in Jamaica: Dr. E. R. Gunn, Alcan's chief medical officer, is chairman of the S.W. Jamaica area committee and Mr. F. A. Whittaker, personnel superintendent at Ewarton , is the chairman for the Parish (County) of St. Catherine. Moreover, two senior employees serve on area committees: Mrs. M. H. P erry of Ewarton on the S.E., and Mr. Charles Bell of Kirkvine on the S.W.
The first first-aid course for Alcan employees was held at Kirkvine in 1955. Among the members of the class were Mrs. Perry and Mr. Bell, both of whom went on to become lay lecturers.
Recently the co urse s at Kirkvine have been increased and a considerable number of employees have been trained.
The first Ewarton course was held in 1962. This was so successful that there has been a succession of courses ever since and most of the security force and drivers are now trained first aiders. In 1964 a closed division of the Brigade was formed at Ewarton. This division is constantly in action at the plant and carries out duties outside whenever its personnel can be spared. Its members are very keen and have proved that they can hold their own against all-comers in first-aid competitions.
Mrs. Perry was subsequently made available to train other classes from other business places in the surrounding areas.
Many classes have riow been conducted in surrounding districts comprising teachers from the various schools , housewives , clerks and a really comprehensive section of the community. Recently Mrs Perry was made a lecturer of potential lay lecturers. One lay lecturer has since been trained - tl1e safety officer at the plant.
The work of St. ]iohn Ambulance in Jamaica owes a lot to Alcan Jamaica Ltd., and the company's very practical help, given in so many ways, is greatly appreciated.
NIGERIA - Presentation of SJ badges to successful first - aiders by the British Deputy High Commissioner in Benin, Mr Gilbert d' Arnaud-Taylor. Seated (L to R) Dr. Pardoe; District Officer; Major Williams ; the Ovie of Ozoro; Mr. and Mrs. d'Arnaud-Taylor; and Dr James""
EGH MP the Attorney General and Vice-President St. John Council, Kenya ..,.
AFRICA
Hermann Calderwood Koch
Recently appointed Hospi taller of the Order in Sou t h Africa, 'Hermie' Koch, as he was always known, died suddenly last November. He will be greatly missed here in many spheres for he truly encouraged 'the spiritual strengthening of mankind' and his life was devoted to the promotion of 'all works of humanity . .. without distinction of race, class, or creed'.
He died in Cape Town where he was attending the Synod of the Church of the Province in South Africa as one of the church's most prominent laymen; the Archbishop of Canterbury also attended the Synod.
As Hospitaller, Mr. Koch was very Occupied with Provincial assistance for Ul.e Ophthalmic Hospital at Baragwanath, !ohannesburg, which, as with the hospital m. Jerusalem is going through a financial crisis.
The funer al service on N ovem ber 18 at
St Aidan's Church Yeoville, was attended by the Prior, the Chancellor, the Bailiff Grand Cross, and seven other members of the Priory Chapter. The traditional mantled procession followed the Bishop and Father Britton down the aisle of the crowded church to pay tribute to a member whose life had been an example of total dedication, and for whom PRO FIDE and PRO UTI LIT ATE HOMINUM had been a daily guide
L t-Col Frederick Wilkinson Smyth, OBE, KStJ
Another well-known St. John personality in South Africa , Fred Smyth - or 'Colonel' as many knew him died recently.
He gave dedicated service to the Witwatersrand and Southern Transvaal Association Centre for 20 years, from his appointment as secretary and honor ary treasurer in 1938 to his retirement in 1958. Within a year of Fred joining the
Centre it expanded from one room to a complete floor of a new building in the busiest part of Johannesburg. First aid and home nursing classes were soon organised throughout the Southern Transvaal , as well as eleven auxiliary military hospitals being established. Together with this vast amount of work, Fred was the honorary secretary of the Red Cross National Co-ordinating Committee from 1939 to 1952; also of the committee formed in 1945 to enquire into preventable blindness , which led to the establishment of the St. John Ophthalmic Hospital near Johannesburg; Our Centre acquired new headquarters in 1944 ; Fred was on another committee. He travelled far and wide by car, often accompanied by his wife Doris, on St. John work. In his efforts he was un tiring, unselfish
We will miss Fred. Everyone will miss him.
W.G. M 7
We are pleased t @ h ea r that Singapore's President of the Republi €, Dr. B H . Sheares, has accepted nomination to be Patron of the St. John Ambulance Association , Singapore
Returning home to Germany after a two-year tour of du ty in London is Baron Cornmande F Gerhard von Ledebur, Assil stant Naval Attache He is to take up a sea-going appointment.
Being an enthusiastic member of the Johanniterorden , he has taken a great interest in the work of St. John , particularly in London. With hi s charming wife, Christiana, he has visited many public duties, competitions and only re ce ntly was guest of honour at the annual dinner of the Molesey and Hampton Court divisions where he spoke of the wonderful co-operation that had developed between St. John and the J ohanniter Unfall Hilfe.
Baron von Ledebur has played an active part in the exchange of members of the two organisations, the most important being the party of JUH from Bacdtm-Wutemmberg who landed at Biggin Hill last year to b e on duty with their London colleagues at the International Air Fair. In addition he facilitated the v-isit of German members to the Casualties Union competition at Sandown Park. Recently he has C()ordinating the official visit on duty of 10 London District members to Mannheim, and also the participation of St. J enn mernbeIs from Lcmdon and all over the country to the Training Camp in Hornum Isle of Sylt, during August.
It is hoped that Baron von Ledebur ' s duties in Germany will not prevent him from maintaining his sincere interest in the work ef the two organisati o ns
APPOINTMENTS
Cumberland: Dr. Birkett retired as Cty. Sgn
Hampshire : Mr. G. H. Waites resigned as Com. Eastern Area
Norfolk : Mr. R C. Crighton r esigned as Com. Eastern Area
Birmingham: Mr. J. C. Miller appointed Com. South Eastern Area
Derbyshire: Captain Drury-Lowe to be CStJA
Devon: Vice Admiral Sir Ronald Brockman, KCB , CSI, ClE, CBE, DL to be County Pre sident StJ A
Casualties Union: The Chief Command e r has been appointed a Vice-President
Development Officers: Mr. Dick has taken up hi s appointment as Development Offic er N.W. Region
SJA AND FOOTBALL
A rep ort in the Daily Express , Man c hester , reads : WHY ST. JOHN WILL NOT PUT THE SOCCER BOOT IN.
The St. John's Ambulance Brigad e, who mercifully provide a service to every-one who attends a League football match, find costs escalating, club contribution trickling.
But they will not put the boot in.
It would be easy enough. Th eir service to League clubs is voluntary. They could withdraw that service , bringing a Home
My c up s runneth ove Kings Lynn (Norfolk) Divisi on's David Cole recently won two more cups for diagno sis to add to others he holds individually and as a team memb e r (Photo: Lynn News)
Office ban o n football until the clubs had set up an a dequate safety organisation themselves - at a considerable cost to themselves.
The figures are alarming. The Brigade estimate that it costs them approximately £400 per season to maintain their service on each First Division ground.
The average co ntributio n from each First Divi sion club is about £70 per season.
Bu t still they will not pu t the boot in. Why?
The Brigad e's Chief Staff Officer Wing-Commander Tom Fazan repli es: 'Mainly because we are a charitable organisation.
'We also b elieve that our case is strong enough for us to go to t he clubs and convince them of t h e need for increasing their contributions.
'To be fair, many clubs who do not make a direct contribution do allow us to take a collection. The pu bhc are receptive, the collection can raise up to At the recent BlJ €k ingham Palace Order investiture were
BY THE EDITOR
£100 but this can be a hit-or-miss effort and we would obviously prefer to hav e a definite donation.'
Recently Lancashire's Lord Lieuten ant, Lord Rhodes, in launching an appeal for fund s for St John, suggested that legislation might enforce adequate safety standards on League grounds.
The police have hinted discreetly that they believe that if a policeman is necessary for every 50 spectators (and the clubs have to pay for policemen) then there should b e a fully-trained first-aid man to accompany every 10 policemen. St. John will certainly make one appeal to sweet r eason If that fails St. John will not, could not withdraw their services But if those s,ervices suffer through lack of funds, if public safety is involved, the Government are certain to say: 'Pay up - or stop playing'.
A new approach com bining a friendly night out with good first-aid t raining for EIland, Halifax (Yorks) SJ A cadets has brought results. The cadet division , under new officers, has increased in strength.
{Photo:
hear that the Disabled Living Foundation is carrying out an enquiry into facilities in part time adult education for phy sically handicapped p erso ns in Greater London and three large towns for comparative purposes
The investigation is co vering parti cu larl y the participation of the physically handi ca pped in non-vocational classes run by the Local Authorities and other organisations for the able bodied ; and also covering classes run specifically for the disabled With regard to the former classes, the
investigator is attempting to find out the extent to which disabled people know and are making use of local Adult Education facilities.
The Disabled Living Foundation would like to hear from anyone who could help in their study. Information is needed from disabled people themselves or from those professionally concerned in the subject in the following areas.
(A) Attendance of physically handicapped at ordinary classes run by the Local Authority or by other local organisations (eg Workers Educational Association)
(B) Attendance at special classes run by the Local Authority both at welfare centres and adult education centres.
(C) Attendance at any other type of part time or non-vocational class
Comments on faciliti es curriculum transport, accessibility, an'd any othe; information would be extremely welcome and should be sent to the researcher, Miss Diana Mohr, The Disabled Living Foundation, 346 Kensington High Street, London , W.14.
r hear five women first-aid enthusiasts won a competition for the Merseyside and North Wales area for the second time recently - beating six teams of men.
The MANWEB Chester ladies team were the only women's team in the competition and came out 59 points clear of the second t eam, and theh reserve, Miss Carol Milnes, won the reserves competition.
The team. c aptain Mrs. Sybil Cooper, said afterwards: 'We have practised hard for this competition. I hope it doesn't embarrass the men too much being beaten by women, but really first-aid comes more naturally to women'.
Last year, after winning the women's district trophy the same team went on to win the national cornpetitio Trl fOJ! the Eleetricity industry.
Dr. B J. Muir (extreme right) presented SJ certificates to a RAF helicopter crew recently, they presented him with a shove-halfpenny board for Braunton 's HQ (Photo: Tony Freeman Barnstaple)
SJA Reading members are building a 11-foot-dinghy to use for river patrols on the Thames summer weekends (Photo: Reading Evening Post)
Dorset, is to be held in the abbey every evening (except Sundays) from July 1 to September 30 this year. Seats for this historic event, priced from 30p to £ 1.10, can be obtained from the Son et Lumier e Booking Office, Greenhill Bookshop, Sherborne, Dorset.
FOR TH E DISABLED
The Guide to Northum bria 1971 together with an accommodation registe; for the disabled, in an effort to minimis e the difficulties experienced by disabled
A 'Son et Lumiere' celebrating 1200 years of history of Sherborne Abbey, • When SJA Braunton's (Devon)
In recegnition of her 32 years' service with the Brigade in Norfolk. Mrs. GraGe Haywood, divisional superintendent (nursing) Gf the Thorpe DivisiGn untH last October is now 1!l1le division's presidemt. The of a Norfolk river, was presented to her by the County Commissi0ner, Brig F P Barclay
people in finding accommodation suitable for their needs in the area, is available free of charge from the Northum b erland and Durham Travel Association, 8 Eldon Square , Newc ast le-upon-Tyne
£310 HORSE RIDE
The sponsored horse ride organised by the Wantage Combined Ambulance Nursing and Cadet Division I hear, raised a total of £310 for the Division's fund for replacing its am bulan ce.
TO BUY KIDNEY
The target of £ 1000 for the pur chase of a home dialysis kidney machine, hear , has been reached by a group of teenage office girls employed by th e west London engineering company CA V Ltd The money ha s been raised by such ou t -of-office- hour s activities as bring and buy sales, a sponsored swim and a pantomime.
Th e machine will be provided at a special pric e by Lu cas Medical Equipm ent
Ltd , a division of Rot ax Ltd (Willesden, London NW 10) It is d esi gned for use in either ho spitals or in the home by pati en ts suffering from chronic renal failure. The girls plan to contact a local hospital in th e near future so that arrangements can be made to supply the machine to an Acton (London W3) resident in need of the equipment.
Helping others is becoming a habit with the CA V girls Last year th ey raised sufficient money to purchase two guide dogs for the blind.
A £250 , 000 project to provide specialized higher e du ca ti onal facilities for handicapped school-Ie avers is being undertaken by REHAB , the British Cou nci1 for R ehabilitation of the Disabled.
Every year 2 0 , 000 physically
handicapped children leave sc hool , according to a REHAB survey. Many have to leave with lower educational qualifications than their talents merit , through tuition time lost when having medical treatment for their disabilities.
Now REHAB is to help these gifted disabled by establishing a specialized residential college of further education at Liphook, to be known as the Liphook Academy. It will provide accommodation initially for 40 school-leavers. Qualified staff will coach pupils for 0 and A levels and university entrance examinations or equip them to embark upon professional careers.
Announcing details of the scheme Lord Napier and Ettrick, who has launched an appeal for funds on behalf of the British Council for Rehabilitation of the Disabled said: 'We need contributions to reach our target.
local rugby club matches (Photo : Burnlev Express)
But more than that we need information. Already we know that there may be as many as four applicants for every single study-bedroom at Liphook. But our initial planning is handicapped by a lack of information on the numbers of gifted young disabled whom we may be asked to help in the future
'For too long the physically disabled have been regarded as people apart by the community in general, yet intellectually many are more than equal to those more fortunate. Our job at Liphook will be to provide the facilities, the time and the encouragement these promising young people deserve Liphook is just the beginning. If our planning is right - and in this we need help and information from all over Britain - Liphook Academy could be the forerunner of a chain of such establishments throughout Britain .' If you know a bright physically disabled youngster who would benefit from the REHAB scheme or if you wish to contribute financially to the project , write to : Lord Napier and .Ettrick, The British Council for Rehabilitation of the D isa bled, Tavistock House (South), Tavistock Square London WC 1.
I was delighted to hear that Miss E. R. Bailey, Divi sional Nursing Offi ce r (Kensington, 9th Division), was recently ap pointed to the Royal Free Hospital as Principal Nursing Officer on the Education Division The Royal Free Hospital is a large group co ntaining 1, 063 beds , an d will shortly be moving into a new hospital being built in Hampst ead.
MR. KEITH LYLE
Th e Hospitaller of the Order was incorrectly referred to in last month's Review as Sir Keith Lyle ; h e is of course 'Mr'.
by Ron Nicholls
JCYPRUS is one of the oldest vine growing countries in the world and her wines have been famous since times of antiquity.
Reference to these wines and their excellent quality is found in the writings of Homer, who stated that they were obtainable in most countries of the world at the time. Cyprus must have gained much of her wealth from vines.
After the fall of Rome, there is no record of these wines until Richard Coeur de Lion's conquest of Cyprus in 1191. From then 'Commandaria' wine became known and today it is said to be the oldest named wine in the world
The label on the Commandaria bottle, a wine which is obtainable in many countries , reads: This bottle contains that exquisite wine which the ancient Greek writer Hesiod in the eighth century B C. described as the 'Cypriot Nama' and which is still being made in the same way as in those ancient times. Cyprus became renowned all over the known world through this excellent wine which the Knights Templars exported to Europe under the name 'Commandaria'.
Members of St. John know that the Knights Templars while in Cyprus fell on hard times, and that their estates and property were passed on to the Knights of St. John.
Another wine 'Commanderie St. John' is still made in Cyprus; it was originally made during the Crusades by the Knights Hospitallers of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem from the vines of the Commandery of Kolossi Castle, Cyprus
The wines, made from partly dried grapes, are sweetish desert wines of distinctive flavour.
In England 'Commandaria', a favourite sweet wine of the Flamtagenet kings, enjoyed their greatest popularity during the· reign of Elizabeth I, who entrusted their monoply to Sir Walter Raleigh of tobacco fame. 12
In 1340 a German priest, the Rev . Ludolf Sudh eim , wrot e in the 'S o ng of Songs':
"In the diocese of Paphos lies the vineyard of Engadi, which has not its equal in the whole world. This vineyard lies on a very high mountain and is two miles long Many vines bear grapes as big as a pot or jug, other grapes are very small. Th e vineyard was once the Templars ' but belongs now to the Hospitallers o f st. John at Rhodes. In the days of th e Templars there was always a hundred slaves, i.e. Saracen prisoners, daily at work in it; these had no other task or duty than the care and tending of this particular vineyard. I have indeed heard from many experienced men that there is no more beautiful , nobl e and wonderous jewel under the sun created by God for the advantage of man As it is said in the Song o f So ngs, 'My beloved is unto me as a cluster of gli apes from the vineyards of Engadi '." Sad to relate, this particular vineyard cannot now be traced.
A Jewish wine merchant from Portugal gave samples of Commandaria to Selim II , Sultan of Turkey, who was so impressed by it that he ordered the capture of Cyprus, telling his Commander-in-Chief , Lala Mustafa, that 'Within this island there is a treasure which only the King of Kings is worthy of possessing.' The Turks captured Cyprus in 1570.
Champagne is believed to be derived from vines originating in Cyprus and it is known that the famous Madeira wines, similar to Command aria came from the vines introduced to Madeira in the 15 th- c en tury.
Kolossi Castle, near Lim assai in Cyprus, dates from about 1210, when the estate was gi¥en to the Knights of St. J ahn of Jerusalem. This area was further wonderfully developed after the fall of Acre in Palestine it 1291, when the
Knights wer e for c ed t o est abli sh t h eir new Headquart e rs in Cyprus and wh er e they already own e d th e prop e rty. F ro m this time they b ec am e a nav al p o w er.
Th e Ha s pitallers held t hr ee Comm a nder ie s in Cyprus th e Gr and Commandery wi t h its H Q. at Kol ossi comprising 40 villag es ; th e Command er y of Tern pl ars , 14 vill ages ; and t h e Commander y of Phi n ika fiv e vill ages.
When the Knight s ca ptur e d Rh odes i n 1310 and moved th ere they still r et ai n ed the Comm a ndery of Kolo ssi , p art of which is to this d a y sa id to b e own e d b y the Order of St John in England.
EDITOR:
The Order of St. John lost the K o l ossi estates when the Turki sh conqu e st of Cyprus took pl ace in 1570 . Cyprus came unde r British rul e in 1878 and Kolo ss i remained in priv at e ownership until 1913. In that y ear it was dis c overed that a share of the propert y w as owned by som e 9 0 Mosl em vill a ge rs. These villagers sold thei r infinit e si m al shares to the Order of St John in England for £30 Thus the Order be c ame the registered owner of 55/256 shar es in the following p arts of the property :-
(a) One room on the second floor of the castl e
(b) Nin e rooms (now demolished ) and a quarter share in one water cistern (reservoir)
(c) One straw store and yard
(d) One building site - 30 fee t square
(e) One sheep fold (now demolished)
Later, about 1930, the Cypru s Government acquilied the remaining sha res in this portion of the property and also the whole of the rest of !t he castle and the grounds and buildings immediately surrounding H
In 1933 the Order donated a sum of £50 towards the cQst of restoring the
battlem e nts a nd cl e aring a nd re con st ru ct ing th e entr ances to the castle.
Two y ea r s la t e r , a n e w Antiquities Law was pass e d in C yprus and through thi s, difficulti es arose on ac c ount of the dual-contr ol o f Kol o ssi by the Cypru s Government and the Order. To help remove thes e diffi c ulties , the Order in 1937 authoris e d the Cyprus Government to tak e any st e p it considered necessary for the restoration of Kolossi wi thout prior refer en ce to the Order.
Between 1937 and 1948 small-s cale conserv a tion works we re carried out from time to time by the Department of Antiquities but there was no general scheme of imp r ov e ment through la ck of funds.
In 1948, Sir Harry Luke Registrar of the Order visited Cyprus to find au t the possibility of the Order acquiring the rest of the shares in the Kolossi property The Cyprus Government offered to make over its share of the property to the Order free of cost, provided that the Order unde r took the preserva tioIl and il" estoration of the property It was estimated that the cost of this work would be about £5 000 and that an annual expenditu;e of £400 for
maintenan c e would be required After discussion, the Counc il of the Order de cided that the expenditure of these amounts was not justified unless special funds could be raised. The Order did not , therefor e, tak e ov er compl et e control of Kolossi.
The la te Lord Prior , Lord Wakehurst , visited Kolossi in 1949 and confirmed the wisdom of Council s decision. As a result of his recommendation however , a grant of £1 , 500 spr e ad over two y e ars was made by the Order to the Department of Antiquities to enable essential repairs to be carri ed out.
While in Cyprus, the Lord Prior also visited the factory of the Cyprus Wine & Spirits Co. Ltd. , known as K .E.O. which owns the vineyards formerly belonging to the Order's Commandery. The Lord Prior suggested to the company that the St. John organisation might be able to help the sale of 'Commandaria' wine in this country by recommending it at St John functions. It was arranged that a special label bearing a Knight of St. John and the eight-pointed cross would be used on bottles of 'Commanderie St John'. In return , K.E.O agreed to make an annual payment of £200 to the Department of
Antiquities in Cyprus towards the maintenance of Kolossi Castle. This amount was contributed for about 10 years , so a total of about £2 000 was provided by K.E O through the Order of st. John towards the preservation of Kolossi. The restoration carri e d out included th e following:Main entrance - brought back into use by providing a wooden bridge across its small fosse and restoring the damaged arch above it. Custodian s Office - built on the premi ses. A full-time custodian has be e n appointed ( paid from Government funds).
Keep - masonry repaired and modern plaster removed. Floors repaired Mill-ra c e - restored. Garden - laid out with paths and flower beds in front of ea st entrance. Outbuilding (sugar factory) Vaulted roof repaired In the early 1960s the finan cial arrangement with K E.O. c ame to an end and since then little r estoration work to Kolossi castle has been ne eded. The Order still ho l ds its proprietary interests in the castle , which is still th e general care of the Department o f Antiquities of Cy prus .
Readers' views and opinions, which shou Id be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations. Although readers may sign published letters with a pen-name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
f fOtllil Mrs. A. Sheehan, divisi<:>nal superintendent
All of our seven ca dets over 16 years old have transferred into a new adult division, of which they ar e the founder m embers. Four parents have also been encouraged to join, and they all successfully passed their adult first-aid examination in December.
Three cadet officers have also transferred to this new division , making a total of 14 members - a good start. But the really interesting fact is that all the ex-cadets transferred with their Grand Prior b a dge s I A record?
eN 37 Bexley, Kent. A. Sheehan UNIFORM
from Ian M. Wilson
Re Sartor Res ar tus , Uniform: To keep my haversack on its strap (I am one of the taller brethren) I hav e us ed 'Velcro'. Two pieces of white Velcro sewn at each end of the strap, and in the correct positions to give the required length , ha s done the trick and the strap can still be readily undone. I have used black Velcro to keep my jacket pocket s neatly closed.
Could th e peaked cap be an officers type with a white plastic band; standardisation and more comfortable?
The replacement of NCO stripes with a horizontal bar would ce rtainly br i ng the SJA into line with other professionals; but again to standardise , why not a chromium bar on shoulder strap like shift leaders in co unty services?
from P. L. White
I have just finished reading the March Review, which is the best, may I suggest, since the new format. How I enjoyed the article on 'Unifmm'. What a lot of common sense it makes; but what about doing away with the white piping on the trousers altogether?
How very true about the reference to the haversac. Our German (Counterpart, Joharmiter Unfall Hilfe, can teach us a great deal with their very reasonable and practical equipment. The idea of doing away with the NCO's chevrons (they should have been done away with years ago) for the more up to date and conventional bars of the leader and sub leader, as SARTOR RESAR TUS suggests, is excellent.
The letter from R. A. Radley (Lingfield, Surrey) 'Teaching and the Future' could not have expressed my views better if I had written it myself.
become known ; and if you are a good instructor you will be asked to take more classes than you can find time for.
If there is a local instructors' Association i n your area, join it; if there isn't get one started. In this way you can keep up with the latest news, methods, etc; you can lecture, demonstrate , try out new ideas, and discuss anything you care to on the subject, as we are doing in the Eastern Area Instructors Association
Have a talk with your divisional superintendent; maybe in time you will be in the happy position (as we are) of training the division. When we run an adult first-aid course our superintendent allocates each instructor a practical session, and we are in sole charge, with no interference.
The white boiler suit now authorised as special duty uniform is ideal for motoring events, and handy to carry in the car for emergencies, as it will fit over ordinary clothes and is very easily seen and recognised There is little to catch on wreckage and the outfit is easily washed at home.
West Riding, Yorks Ian M. Wilson
from Terry M. Wing ambulance member
The following extract from a local paper dated March 18 1971 might save a few divisions from getting themselves a hefty fine.
'From April 1 this year, all electrical appliances on sale , whether new or secondhand, must have the new standard wiring colours on the mains lead These colours are brown for liv e, blue
for neutral, and green and yellow stripes for earth.
'The old colours of red, black and green will become illef;al.
'This law applies only to three-core flex ; television an.1 radio s will not be affected. House-wiring need not be changed.
'The Sutton Home Safety Committee especially warns all organisations planning to have jumble sales after April 1 to check that appliances comply with the new law, and only offer legal' items for sale.'
Now that I have finished my electrical comment, I shall let off a few of my own sparks!
I agree with you DIO Newbold, the article on ambulan ces was overdue. But have you thought why? Do we really want to read an article on ambulances that are pa st their prime in life? I am now speaking as a nurse , not as an ambulance joyrider. How can you treat shock in a converted rock tail-shaker? How do you ca lm an internal ha emo rrhage patiel t when the e ngine sounds like 'a bridge over troubled waters'? do you tak e a patient to a pla ce of sa fety when they are tied to a 'born b'?
I thought we were keeping up with the times , so let's forget those old buses and get new, modern publicity (ambulances)1 My las t comment is a concern of only a few (I think?). In theory, we student nurses are dealt with in the same way as registered nurs es in the brigade, i.e. first aid examinations, etc. But in practice we are treated as if we know nothing. Thi s appears to be more so in the case of us unheard-of male student nurses I'm sure we know more about nursing than a nursing member. Anyway , in hospital , if we are in our third year of training, we are treated as being on th e same or a higher level than State Enrolled Nurses
Does the Brigade want nurses? Does it want fema 1 , s or males? Or does it want both? If it wants more may I suggest that it treats student nurses as nurses, not as I have been in th e Brigade six years. later years I have asked various 'top brass' about : l Y last comment. Will something be done before the Brigad e loses us to the Red Cross?
London
Terry M. Wing
Edit: To try to answer Mr. Wing s criticism of my publishing articles on old 'ambulances', I assume he is referring to the two articles on mobile first-aid units published in the Review under my control? If so I was not under the impression that these
P.L. White
But still, Mr. Editm, I expect you get lots of ideas and suggestio1ils such as these Perhaps someone, someday, will read and act on them, and St. John will reflect the image of the 'Review' in its new conceI£ltion_ London,SW16
A PLEA FOR INSTRUCTORS
from J. B. Harvey
After R. A. Radley's letter, March Review, 1 would like to say how much I agree with him regarding the methods and standards of training.
I too know the feel!ing of frustirmtion after having spent time, money and many hours of study to become a lay instructor only to find that through lack of opportunity you are unable to impart this knowledge. No wonder Mr. Radley feels an instructor's certificate is a valueless piece of paper. I think many newly-qualified first-aid instructors feel this. F or there is a curtain of resistance that has to be penetrated before one is accepted.
My instructor's certificate means a great deal to me; for inslruGting is part of my life aNd with.out it I would be lost. This is really why I joined SJA - to practise and to teach first aid.
The Scout movement, :Boys Brigade, Girls :Brigade, St John cadets, youngsters stUJdying for the Duke of Edinburgh 's awalid , local women's guilds, etc., all require instructors and, at times, examiners. You don't get paid for this service, but you will 14
If you have the enthusiasm and the determination to teach , don't let anyone put you off. And there are rewards for instructors: after a stiff examination of a class I had in st ructed the examining doctor said to me : 'This is the first class I haven 't had to drag answers from.'
Keep pushing, Mr. Radley London, E.11.
from B. F. Rockell, area staff officer
J. B. Harve y
With so many advances now being made within our organisation , is it not time we reviewed the first-aid kits we carry? While the personal kits seem to prove fairly satisfactory, the main kit used , the l5A, would appear out-dated for our needs To reach for a dressing quickly two satchel straps are first undone, the whole metal case is lifted out (the innards of splints and triangular bandages collapsing into the remaining canvas bag), the metal box is opened and by rummaging in the miniscule compartments the dressing is found; then comes the episode of repacking again. All this in a canvas container that is neither water nor stainproof!
I have found two boxes which are more suitable for our purposes. The first is a Woolworths tool box retailing at around £ l. 5 O This is made in coloured plastic with a single metal clip and when opened the whole contents displayed in view. Even more suit aM e for a iarger kit is the Motifu.ercare Baby Box, made in white Polypropylene, l6ins by 1 by 7ins in size, weighing only 3%lb, and obtainable from a ny Mothercare Ib ranch at £2.25.
Surely something on these line s can replace the antiquated 15 A? Slough, Bucks
B F. Rockell
vehicles were to be used as ambulances. They are first aid units, created from elderly vekicles, which can be driven born site to site. No-one is taken anywhere in a first-aid unit.
from J. E. Smith, area staff officer
I comment on Mr. Johnson's reply to my letter on 'New Civil Defence', of a few months ago.
1 I only meant to point out that it is a new type Civil Defence in as much as members of the Civil Defence Corps have banded themselves together under Civil Aid units I realise that there still is a Goyernment CD set-up. I repeat however, that I cannot see why we cannot include welfare and rescue training with first aid and nursing in our St. John programme.
2. We cannot have another voluntary organisation acting as a further co-ordinator of St. John and BRCS activities. We in St. John have our own area and county staff; this becomes complicated enough sometimes without having smaller groups channelling our efforts. I repeat again that Civil Aid members would be of more help in the St. John organisation than out.
3. I dGl realise that very little support is given by local authorities to Civil Aid, but here again we have duplication of fund raising and pUblicity.
4. No comment.
S. Mr. Johnson defends the existence of the Civil Aid organisation as a separate body , but in his last paragraph wants the St. John and BRCS to amalgamate. I think most agree that it is a pity that we have these two separate organisations, but both are so firmly established I think it would do more harm than good at present to try amalgamation. Both organisations a r e down on adult membership, and amalgamation would mean a further decrease. With the best will in the world, everyone would not agree. We are amalgamated as far as basic training, which is the main thing.
To conclude we can do without newer organisations such as Civil Aid and St. Georges Ambulance Corps. So come on Civil Aid members and St. John senior officers - get together and see what can be done!
Surrey J E. Smith
PEN- OR TAPE-PALS
from D A. Young, divisional officer
I am a 28-year-old English-speaking divisional officer in SJAB in South Africa, and wish to write to, or exchange tapes with , fellow members of the Brigade in other parts of the world.
Any offers?
71 Innes Rd, Durban, Natal, S. Africa D. A. Young
THE WAY IN from Miss Valerie Pacey, divisi0nal officer
Who says it's not a good idea for St. John to keep in with the local papers? At the finish of a duty my friend and I gave a lift to a local reporter because he was urgently needed at his office.
A few weeks later we managed to get another weekend off from nursing and desperately wanted to see Mungo Jerry , who was appearing at a local dance hall. Arriving at the hall without tickets, our hearts sank; there was a long queue of ticket-holder s only; and then our reporter friend appeared to say: 'What - not on duty with 600 people here?'
Fetching our first-aid equipment from the car and putting on our badges and arm-bands, into the hall we went as first aiders.
I t was a good show!
Stoke Mandervill e Hospital Valerie Pa cey
Corrections to Readers' Views:
STREET ACCIDENTS, from Mrs Norman Railings, in the February 1971 issue: the first paragraph should read - At the 1969 Presidents' Conference I asked if I might have full backing and encouragement from Headquarters
FIRST AID MANUAL, from Miss K. D. Wilson divisional officer, in the March 1971 issue: sub-heading 3 should read -
3. There should be only two manuals :
a) A book for under 16-year-olds entitled either 'The Cadet First Aid Manual' or 'First Aid for Juniors', but the title 'Essentials of First Aid' should be scrapped as the word essentials was regard ed as misleading. The group felt this word would bett er d escribe a basic course for beginners and the general public (e.g. the suggested new short course).
b) An adult manual containing:
Section 1: 'Essentials of First Aid' (at present known for examination purposes as Initial First Aid) This should be more simple throughout than present Part 1 and contain only essential or basic anatomy and physiology, and b e used at publi c classes and for first year certificates.
Section 2: ' Higher First Aid' to be longer and more detailed than aforementioned Essentials of First Aid and aimed at members of First Aid organisations and to be used for all re-examinations after first year.
Section 3: 'Advanced First Aid' - to include present specialised first aid procedures (especially 02 administration and insertion of airways), but some nursing procedur es should not b e included as these can be learned from the Nursing Manual, if required.
Section 3 should also contain special first aid such as occupational health instead of it being in present separate bo ok.
fortnightly at Headquarters consists of doctors, first aiders and visual aid experts who offer their services for this important aspect of visual aids
It is intended to publish monthly reviews of those 16mm. film s recommended by the panel
AID: INSTRUCTIONAL
(Colour 25 mins.)
Distributed by : Ministry of Defence (Admiralty)
Produced by : Ministry of Defence (Admiralty)
This film portrays the use of visual aids within teaching situa tions.
The panel considered this an excellent film inasmuch as it is made for a specific purpose , addressed to a specific target audience and it succeeds admirably in the task it attempts. The sheer prof essio nalism of this film is an example to less efficient film producers; it is first rate.
This film is obligatory viewing for all connected with instru c tion.
THE CHOICE (Colour 29 mins.)
Distribu ted by Imperial Chemical Industries Ltd.
Produced by: Imperial Chemical Industries Ltd.
This film shows problems i nvolv ed in preserving the environmen t from poIlu tion of earth, air and water.
The panel co ns idere d this a well made film with good photography; however, it believed the Wm too long for its content an d its clarity of development poor. Its main fault, however , is that it fails to ca rry conviction. Th e panel , too , co nsidered the judgment of this film at fault being balanced in favour of industrialists.
Of general interest as a topical programme filler.
PRESCRIPTION FOR LIFE (1967) (Colour 50 mins.)
Distributed by: Vickers Ltd. (Medical Engineering)
Produced by: American Heart Association , U S.A.
Detailed instructions in cardiopulmonary resuscitation , including artificial r es piration , artificial circulation, and definitive treatm ent of all forms of cardiac arrest.
The panel considered this a very good training film but far too long ; it could be cut into Parts I and II an d thus would be more effective. In cardio respiratory resuscitation techn i que the model , diagrams and charts shown within the film are first rate. How ever, the emergency procedures shown i n th e second half of the film a r e beyond the scope of first aid audiences.
Audienc e: Suitabl e in entirety so l ely for medical and nursing audiences; however , the first half of this film would be of great value in firs t a id resuscitation
PROGRAMMED LEARNING (1970) (Colour 32 mins.)
Distributed by: Ministry of Defence (Admiralty)
Produced by : Ministry of Defence (Admiralty)
This training film made for the Royal Navy demonstra tes Programmed Learning and brings out main headings of objectives, tests, programme validation and both hardware and soft ware.
The panel considered this an excellent film; accurate, mod ern 3ffilJO extremely relevant. The cinema technique is blriJIiant not kas t for the way visual aids are employed in explanation of programmed learning technique.
This film is essential viewing for educationalists responsible for principles of first aid training but also should be exhibited to all first aid instructors.
IN MANUAL HANDLING (8 & W 14 mins.)
Distribu ted by I. C.I. Film Library
Produced by: I.C.!
The film primarily concerned with strain prevention, introduces the basic key factors of good kinetics, and shows their application in the handling of bags, barrels, drums, boxes, etc.
The panel considered this film, the first in the field, still an authoritative production upon the subject. It shows correct and incorrect lifting methods and presents all facts clearly. However, the fact that the film is 15 years old, with stilted dialogue old-fashioned cinematographic technique and lacking in models and animation does mitigate against its effect. If the producers could be persuaded to make an up-to-date version i n colour it would be helpful.
Audience: Generally addressed to industrial workers but has universal application
(Colour 33 mins.)
Distributor: Town and Country Productions Ltd.
Producer: Church of England Children's Society
This film shows the work of the Church of England Children's Society and includes an immigrant child orphaned in a fire , a deserted mother and child, mentally and physically handicapped children and orphans.
The panel considered this film far too lengthy for its content. It shows the admirable work of the Society but drastic cutting would increase its value.
May be screened to all types of audiences as a general information filler.
(Colour 16 mins.)
Distributor: World Wide Pictures Ltd.
Producer : Unilever Limited
This film , aided by x-ray photography , examines the development of the mouth from babyhood to maturity and shows bacterial attack upon teeth enamel and also complex activities such as in the exercise of taste and smell and speech.
The panel considered this film , within its limits , a miniature masterpiece of film-craft. Its story-line is fully developed , the use of x-ray photography and diagrams faultless, its exposition of the utmost clarity, the colour is good and all material accurate.
This film is of great interest to all first aiders; it will be of value to nurses and medi cal students too.
(Colour 18 mins.)
Distributor: Hospital Med.icine Film Unit
Producer : Horthwood Films
The use of methohe x itone in the treatment of phobic states including a young girl suffering from agoraphobia and a young man with primary impotence. Dr. Friedman describes his tec hniqu e of desensitisation in detail and use of methohexitone in E.C.T. is shown.
The panel considered this film only a mod e rate piece of film-craft. Not too well produced and with amateur actors it stands or falls only by its subject matter which will be of very great interest to medical officers and in particular psychiatrists. Not for first aiders. Should be screened solely to medical personnel.
FEBRUARY 25 1971
AS DAME OF GRACE
Mrs. M. B. Carmichael , OBE, SRN , SCM, JP.
AS CHAPLAIN
The Rev. J S. D. Mansel, MA.
A S COMMANDER (BRO T HER)
MajQr F. R. Ingham
T. L. Somersc;;ales, CBE, FCA.
Captain D J. Laffer y, MBE
Captai n W. Mills, MBE
E Mason.
M A. Simmons.
T. A. Jackso n , MB£.
R Latham Br own, MB.
C. W. Haywa r d.
Air Vice-Marshall R O. Yerbury, CBE, QHS, Me, BS, MR CS, L R CP, DPH.
AS e OMMANDER (SISTER)
Miss V. M Leathe r MBE
Mrs. E. Nason
AS OFFICER (BROTHER)
The Rev. K. F. Belbe n (Su b-Chap l ain).
The R ev. 1. F. M. Llewellyn (Sub-Chaplain)
R C. Evans.
A Ort on, MBE.
T. L. H u r st.
H. G H. Farrow.
T. A Atherton, BEM.
E. S V. Stephens.
J. C. Wade, OBE, JP.
Col. R C. Jeffery, TD, DL.
H. W K. Wont n er, CVO.
G C. Gundersen, MB, ChB.
T. W. R obershaw.
D. R. Wemb.
D McN. Be u gie, MB, BS, CObst, RCOG, MRCGP.
J. Mackie
B. S tevens.
C. N. Banks, MB, BChir, FReS.
AS OFFI C ER (SISTER)
Squadron Officer E. M. Harris.
Mrs. T. J. Bristow.
Miss F. I. Bott.
Tuc k ing into t f iumph
Mrs. D. A MacNeill.
Mrs. A. M. Ward.
Mrs. D F r edricksen.
Mrs. D R. Booth.
Miss L. M. Cou l ton.
Mrs. D. L. Dowling.
Mrs. D A. Ward.
Miss M A W. Paterson.
Miss D. M Dixon. Miss J. H ughes
AS SERVING BROTHERS
The Rev Idwal Jones MA. Wardmaster Lieut. L. Massey, MB£.
L. D. Baird.
G. J. Bates.
W. Breen.
A. C. Co ll ins A J. Cratchley.
S. G. Deavin, OBE.
A. J Din, C.Eng , MIEE, AMInstF.
T. C. Herries.
T. Jackson. H. JQhnson.
R. Jones.
J. E. Kirby H. Leece
D. G. Lund. G H Marigold.
P. J. Moore.
W. R. Morris.
W. Nicol, MB, ChB, DIP.
J. R. Price. R Pwudlock.
R G. R obinso n A. G Scott.
A. T Solly.
J. M. Stuart, MB, ChB, DIH. S. Sykes
G. E. Thompson.
J. W. Towell.
J. R. Urwin.
J. P. Varley, TD, LLB
1. Westwell. E Whiteley.
A. M. Mcintosh. J W H awkes
P. G. Wilkes. F Anderson, MM
W. C Darcy
H. G lentworth.
M. J McCoy.
H. Fowler.
Major A. E. Rampling , MRCS, LRCP DPH , LDS S R Smith.
T. L. Bryant.
A. H. Torr e nc e, MA, MB , BCh W. O. Gay
AS ASSOCIA TE SE RVING BROTHER
Mohammed Ishaque, MB, BS.
AS SERVING SIST E RS
Miss S. C Puckle , MBE, TD
Miss M. Smith.
Miss G Waddicor.
Mrs. M. C. Bake r.
Mrs. D W. Nash, SRN SCM
Miss D. Palfreeman.
Mrs. G. West
Mrs. E. M. Metcalfe, MB BCh , MRCP.
Miss B. Farnell, SRN , SCM, HV.
Mrs 1. H. Railing.
Mrs. V J. Hanby.
Mrs. V F. Gray, SRN SCM
Miss M. A Leighton
Mrs. E. M. Shing er.
Mrs. K N. Hussey.
Miss O Jackson.
Mrs. F M Fowler.
Mr s. A. Andjel.
Mrs. E. E. Harrison
Mrs. E. E. Turn e r.
Mrs M. Wilson.
Mrs. E. A Cheadle.
Miss M. Ward, SRN , SCM, HV.
Miss I. M. Bamford.
Mrs. S. J. Collins.
Miss M. A. 1. He e ps. The Lady We stbury.
AS ASSOCIATE SERVING SISTER
Mr s. F Festenstein, MRCS, LRCP.
London (Batt
Priory Headquarters
WORK has now begun on the restoration of 21, St.' John Street, Edinburgh, the new headquarters of our Order in Scotland. By the mid-summer it should have taken the form Hlustrated in the two photograpns shown. But the job is a very expensive one and financial help will be needed if the dreams ef Majer Watts, who the property, are to be properly realiseci. Every penny that can be raised from outside will reduce the on the Order's own finances. Some way will be found of commemorating all tl10se who contribute to the building. Because it is felt that there are generous benefactors who might like to help tewards the decoration of a room or the providing of an individual feature, a detailed break-down of the costs involved has been prepared for inspection by all who might be interested Meanwhile here is a selection from the list:
The costs of light fittings and appliances have been broken down so that individual items, costing from £20 to £ 1QO, can be donated.
A Visitation to Edinburgh
19-year-old DIAN E DAVIS tells us abol!lt her life as a
I HAVE NOW reached the sixteenth month of my training. Since starting in Janu ary 1970, this has included eight weeks introductory course, t welve months on wards, and four weeks 'study block' , which is theoretical work in the school of nursing. Having recently taken my intermediate practical and theoretical examinations (which I haven't had the re su lts of yet) , I am now doing my second year study block; there will be two further study blocks before completing my three years training
On the wards, where I've just finished two month s in male surgery , I'm now a 'grey belt' - at UCH a second-year student nu rse. Our s was a busy surgical ward, with usually 28 patients Ranging in age from 16 to a 76-year-old, these p atients consisted of twenty surgical cases including hernia repairs, appendicectomy, gastri c and duodenal ulcers, to a pancreatectomy - and eight radiotherapy b eds.
The ward staff comprised a young siste r two staff nurses (stripe-belts), myself (a grey-belt), and five first-year nurses (white-belts). In four weeks did three weeks of day duty, and one week nights. As a rule I was on duty with a staff nurse, a stripe-belt and two white-belts.
At first 1 fou nd it strange to be asked nursing questions on the ward by the new girls who had just completed their introductory course. For it seems only yesterday that I was 'a new girl'. Most of the que stions , I m glad to say, I could answer; if I couldn't, 1 eit her turned up my books or asked a senior nurse. And so one goes on learning. But what did surprise me about these questions was how much of my first year's training had unconsciously registered Suddenly I r ea lly knew that I was a third of the way to my finals.
Due to shortage of staff was often the sen ior student nurse on the ward and sister would then give me pre- and post-oper a tiv e patients to look after - a responsibility that just m akes one learn AJld I must say I relished this third-year responsibility when only just in my second year.
ACROSS:
1. Largest gland of the body (5). 4. Pupils in a state of alcoholic intoxication (7). 8. Destroyed no main foetal membrane (6). 9. A slight fever before I can produce pepper (6). 10. Quanti t ative assessment of antibody content of blood (5). 11. Small pupils , perhaps a result of opium poisoning (6). 13 Shivering attacks with rising temperature (6). 14. Girl always providing aid (3).15. Professionally visited nurse in ruined date (8). 18. Suet if found in group of ce lls forming a structure of body (6). 20. Organ important in regUlation of body temperature (6). 21. Point out show (8) 23. Part of finger or foot for highway robber (3). 24. After a short day , rush to get fungus infection of mouth (6). 26. Painful when touched (6). 28. A large cut showing astonishment ( 5). 29. Doctor and flying group cutting grass (6). 30. Beer for hospital worker (6). 31. Try heap for treatment (7). 32. Cleanse and protect a wound (5).
DOWN:
But now it's back to school I go - this time to study the genito-urinary and reproductive syste m s.
In both places the atmosphere - warm, affectionate and happy - was a tribute to the devoted care of the wardens and committees. The combined AGM went extremely well and it was agreed by members of the Council that whatever good their visit might have done to those in Edinburgh was far outweighed by the inspiration they themselves received. The success of the gift shop - last year it showed a clear profit of £ 1,200tegether with the sterling work of those resJ!)onsibJJe for other activities, including the sales of work and flag days - they made over £1,133 amd over £639 respectively - had resulted in the receipts of the Association almost doubling in a
The Council's attendance last summer at the founding celebrations at Torphichen was such a success that it was decided to institute regular visitations to th€ local committees of the Ordcr and the Asseciatielll, so as to bring Priory into cleser touch with those who contributed so much. A start was made on 15 March whem the Council in full regalia attended the AGMs of the Edinburgh Committee and Association. The day began with a visit to the St. John Gift Shop in Deanhaugh Street which has been an outstanding success, largely through the efforts of Mrs. Wilkie who runs it with the able support of members of the Order who are in the antique trade. At the shop the Librarian snapped up a fine pair Qf Vietorian horses that now ciecorate the top ef his bookcase. The Council then travelled out to St. John's Hospice, C al'berry, situated in the beautiEul grounds of Carberry Towers once the 20 trountS Filar PlIO seat of Lord Elphinstone, and from there went to St. John's House, 7 Lennox Row
year: from £1,865 to £3,297. It only goes to show what initiative and enthusiasm can do.
Mountain Rescue
Regular readers of News from Scotland will remember the report of the rescue in the Cairngorms on 5 January Letters were later received by Mr. William A. Marshall, th e team leader , from the young man rescued and his mother. The young man had arranged for 't he beer (or something) for your team and I hope yOU enjoy it - you all flogged yourselves to save me.' His mother wrote 'to tha!l1l!k you and the mountain rescue team for all yoU did to rescue my son from the Cairngorms. It is thanks to you and the Braemar team that I still h ave a son.'
To'-lIG-H ON THE TRfATI'1HJT INSffIJSf(3IL "f. o
(;D ALL ouT FOA.
1. Apparently a pharyngeal tumour caused emotion (4.2.3.6). 2. Afferent vessels of the circulatory system (5). 3 Periodic payments for tears (5). 4 Old diet varied for shoulder muscle (7). 5. Alec shaken and scolded sustained a cut (9). 6. Froth in gall -bladder conceals inanimate object (5). 7 . Hallucinations of chronic alcoholic (8.7). 12. In North camouflaging a hostelry (3). 16. Tree used in helminthiasis (3). 17. Possible result of 1 Down is hard to swallow (9). 19. Point taken before food in pouch of hernia (3). 21. In a perfect manner (7). 22. Bag applied to ease pain and reduce swelling (3). 25. Secreted by kidney (5). 26. Bath slightly below body temperature (5). 27. Never change conducting tissue (5)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 4-71
ACROSS:
1. Brachial artery; 9. Nerve Cell; 10. Rip.en ; 11. Longeval ; 12 Fibula; 14 Open; 15. Tutor ; 16. Term ; 17. Note ; 19. Dusty ; 20. U S Ed; 24. R .ei n .e d ; 2 5 : Placenta; 27. Ene.ma; 28. Preserved ; 29. Ascending Tract.
DOWN:
1. Bundle of nerves; 2. Ar.ran .ge; 3. Heeded ; 4 Acetabulum ; 5 A.i.ls ; 6. Torpid; 7. Rupture ; 8. One-armed bandit; 13. Portal vein ; 18. Tric.P.S.; 2l. Synovia; 22. Fe.male ; 23. Accent ; 26. Spud.
HE RTS-Anoth er step towards SJ A Hemel Hempstead's new headquarters was taken recently when the Lord Lieutenant, Major-General Sir George Burns , who is also President of the Hertfordshire SJA, visited the partially completed building to lay co mmemorative stone.
As a result of the largest fund-raising project so far undertaken by the Hertford and District Round Table, the lo cal SJA divisions were present e d wifh a brand new ambulance at a ceremony during March.
KENT-Bexley Nursing Division's first-aid team again won the Area competitions during Mar c h for the fourth year in succession; they also won the Area uniform cup for the fourth successive year. The team was very ably ed by Gillian Haz el, and assisted by Pa tricia Wat so n , Deni se Sisley and Hazel Row e. In the first competition the divisi on entered in 196 8, the team was led by Gillian Hazel's siste r Angela, now a cadet leader , and two of the team - Patricia Watson and Gillian Hazell - have been in each competition since Gillian was only 11 years old for h er first competition and she still has nex t year before she will hav e to drop ou t. This will mean 5 years as a team member , starting as a No. 4 and gradually progressing to be No 1 and an excellent team l eade r at th e age of 14V2 I s this a record?
Bexley says: Watch out at London District Finals on May 8!
KINGSTON-UPON-THAMES-Aft er four months of preparation , a first aid cl as s held at th e Kingston plant of Hawker Siddeley Aviation faced the examiner Dr. Bartley, also of Kingston , and all 25 entrants successfully passed; which speaks well for the company medical officer Dr. Baggley and the lay instructors whose class this was.
MIDDLESBROUGH-Two points only decided the third and fourth placings in the Teess i de and Workington group first aid competition held during March. Placed third with 293 points was Ayrton Works , and with 291 points Workington took fourth place. R e dcar Works who won the competition, had a clear lead of 369 points over second place Lackenby with 305.
Miss Florence Jenkins, former Divisional Superintendent Wallas ey Nursing Cadet Division. Retired in 1968.
Mrs Joyce Robertshaw, 41 , Shipley NurSing Division for 10 years, Divisional Officer Cadets for last two years.
CO. DURHAM County Nursing and Cadet Finals.
BEARPARK ROSE BOWL
or
CARPET
5 & 6,
90-92, Pilgrim St ., 1. Tel : 20321/21428
WESTCLIFF-on-SEA: 495, London Rd Tel: Southend 46569 Open : 9 00-5 30 Mon. to Fri. Sat. 9.00-12 00 (Manchl!stel 9.00-4.00) (111
CENTRAL NURSING APPOINTMENTS AND TRAINING SCHEMES
MOORFIELDS EYE HOSPITAL CITY ROAD, LONDON, E.C 1.
Vacancies exist for State Enrolled Nurses to enter for the Post Enroli ed training in Ophthalmic Nursing Twe lve months cou r se, of which tw O months are spent in the School of Nurs i n(:l Moorfields Certificate of Proficiency and Medal awarded to successfu cand ida tes who are 2 1so pr e pared for the Prof icie ncy Certifi ca tes of th e Ophthalmic Nursing Board
Opportunities for promotion and practical respons i bility in the specialist field of nursing.
Apply to Miss M B. M acKe llar, Matron ( 26)
MOORFIELDS EYE HOSPITAL CITY ROAD, LONDON, E.C l.
Ophthalmic Student Nurses
Candidates accepted at the age of 17 to com mence an 18 months co urse of Iraining as Ophthalmic Students, Moorfi elds
in Ke rls ington within easy reach of th e Albert Hall Victoria and Albe r t Museum and Theatres, Tennis Court Active Socia l Club.
Applications in writing to the Matron (81
This is your chance to jo n us
To
FEWER
MR. F. ADAMS, the guest speaker of a recent meeting at St. John House, Kidderminster, at which the local nursing division was hostess to the ambulance division and British Red Cross detachments, dealt with the interesting subject of first aid and the law.
The following report of the talk is by Ambulance Member G. Jukes
'There are two main types of law:
1_ Common Law: which is derived from ancient usage an d customs which can only be changed by Act of Parli a ment.
Contents
Here it is - First Aid for Everyone! p.2
The Doctor / Patient Relationship p.3
Nigeria 1970, by Sylvia M Watkins pA
The Overhead Projector p.6
Around and About, by the Editor p.8
Canoeing - It's fun! by M alcolm Cowell p.12
The Unconscious Patient, by William Thomson p.14
Order Investiture, 6 May 1971 p 15
Readers' Views p 16
A SJA Division in 1925 p.18
News from Scotland, Wales p.20
Overseas News p.21
News from the Divisions p.22
EDITOR : FRANK DRISCO LL. 26 Pemb ro ke Gar den s, London , W 8. (01 -6 038 5 1 2)
ADVERTISEMENTS T G Scott & Son Ltd Price 12p Cover: 1 Clement's Inn London WC2A 2ED (01 -2 426264 and
2. Precedent Law: where previous cases are taken as example or rule.
'Looking through the acts, Mr. Adams said the first mention of the word first aid was in the 1930 Factory Act, which mentioned the use of a first-aid box or cover in industrial buildings. The Defence Regulation 1938 was the first time the contents of the first-aid box were listed.
'M r. Adams went on to say that as frrst-aiders are volunteers they are safeguarded by the law and would only be liable if grossly negligent. It was further pointed out that a first-aider is holding him or herself out as an able or qualified person, but not to the standard of a State Nurse_
Paid f ir st-aiders , nurses or doctors are classed as specialists and could be sued for any further injury caused, but there would be no come-back as a volunteer. Howev e r , Mr. Adams said that there were aspects based on volunteers which acted against the first-aider , this being th at the law looked on a volunteer as an interferer. An example was given of a first-aider lifting a patient into an ambulance. If the first-aider caused himself some serious injury would anyone be liable? Who co uld the first-aider claim from? This raised the question : were divisional members insured by the divisions ?
'M r. Adams then asked and answered several questions: Is the first-aider a special volunteer? Does a first-aider h ave a moral duty? If the first-aider is called to give assistance, is the first-aider still a volunteer? As volunteer bodie s fit the term charity, coming under the Charity Act, does the organisation receive a Rate Relief?
The question of a trail er , mobile unit or caravan w as covered and it was pointed out that a speci a l insurance was r e quired Also the law says no vehicle must be ove rl oad e d , a nd that motor acc idents with personal injury mu st b e reported at a poli ce station within 24 hours.
elf clothing or va luables are removed from a patient and the first-aider t akes charge of them without charging a fee , then the first-aider is termed a bailee and th e responsibility is very slight and even if lost there is no a bsolute li a bility , but a witness would b e advisable'_ Int e re sti ng. P erha ps readers h ave questions or views on thi s su bj ect .
The Editor.
A REPORT ON ONE OF THE FIRST 4-HOUR COURSES, BASED ON THE NEWLY-PUBLISHED DIGEST OF FIRST AID, TO BE HELD: A COURSE THAT GIVES EVERY MEMBER THE OPPORTUNITY TO
by Ken Weald
THIS COURSE was carried out in four sessions of one hour each on March 16, 17, 23 and 24 at the North Romford School, Essex.
The class comprised 65 students of the 6th Form (average age 17 years), some 'A' level students, some awaiting university entrance examinations, whom had taken biology and kindred subjects, which was apparent by the questions asked and the degree of accuracy demaNded in the answers.
At the planning stage of the course it had been stated that the class had taken driving instruction and road accidents were causing them some concern as to what to do. Further a swimming pool has been installed and the 'kiss of life' was a subject that they wished to know more about.
Accordingly it was arranged with Mr. W. Oliver, SJAB Development Officer for this area, that Resusci-Ann and Resusci-Andy be made avaiJable for the 2nd session. Thus the syllabus was compiled as follows:
Session 1
Introduction to the course.
Chapter 1, 2 and 3 (omitting causes of asphyxia and special treatments).
PRACTICAL. Recovery position and silvester method.
Session 2
Causes of asphyxia and special treatments
PRACTICAL. Resuscitation.
Session 3
Chapters 4, 5 and 6.
PRACTICAL. Dressings. l3uilt up dressings.
Session 4
Chapters 7, 8, 9 and 10.
2
PRACTICAL. Immobilisation of fractures.
In session 2 the entire class of 65 performed mouth-to-mouth and external cardiac massage resuscitation.
While leaving the lecture hall the canteen staff showed interest in the dolls, so the canteen staff were shown how to dl) mouth-to-mouth and each member of the staff successfully applied it.
At this time the school of 1 ,3 00 pupils was assembling in the main hall and 900 to 1000 pupils were present when mouth-to-mouth was demonstrated. After the demonstration, two of the youngest pupils were invited on to the stage and they both performed correctly and successfully on the dolls.
Because of the ability of this particular class to absorb knowledge qu ick ly and retain it, I devoted the entire 2nd session to resuscitation. I would not recommend such thoroughness in all classes though.
The handbook DIGEST OF FIRST AID must be adhered to closely and provided that one quarter of the book is dealt with each hour, and sufficient question time given after every chapter, the operation of the course is sim·plicity itself.
During th[s course no visual aids were used. Fortunately I am able to draw and this sufficed. However , I feel that a skeleton and flannelgraph would be of immeRse assistance to the lecturer and is highly recommended for inclusion.
May I offer my congratulations to the compilers of DIGEST OF FIRST AID. Wtith more than 25 years rn fiFst aid, I have never read such a well laid out manuaL It deserves every success.
Subsequent to the Course:
Because of the demonstration to the
entire school, great interest was shown in the subject and as a result a full day of films and practical resuscitation has been arranged through Mr. Oliver. It has been suggested by the Head Mistress that the school will organise a first aid course for those wishing to further their knowledge , and this information has also been pa sse d to Mr. Oliver.
The Head Mistress, Miss Patterson , was an SJ AB nurse from 1939 to 45 and served in several London hospitals during the war years. She show ed great interest in the course and attended every lecture, as indeed did several of the staff, male and female.
It was during these sessions that it struck me that several schools have Air Training Corps, Officer Training Corps, so why not a St. John Cadet Unit? If we went for the ll-y ear-o lds, by the time they left school they would be ready for an adult division, plus a formidable first aid force for industry when they seek employment.
If after due discussion thi s speculation should be acted upon, may I suggest that the North Romford Comprehensive School offers a tre m endous opportunity for such a venture, a nd that Mis s Patterson would be an ideal commander for such a unit, and there are interested tutorial staff to assis t h er.
These comprehensive schools with 1 ,500 pupils offer such a tremendous opportunity to the cadet organisation that so me action should be taken; they possess likely recruits, a responsible st a ff, and medical officers available.
Copies of Digest of First Aid can be obtained from Stores D epartment, St. John's Gate, London, E.C.l price 20p plus postage.
TIIH 1971 St. John A mhuLonce Medical Conj'erence, h e Ld at Nottingham !l pril 16 to 18, was honoured hy a Lecture given hy Professor Sir f/ ed Ley Atkins, KBe, DM , MCh, f'RCS, who is chairman oj' Ih e Medical Board oj' the Foundation. Th e [allowing is a reporf oj' his stirring address:
' I am go in g to ta k about the do cto r/pati e nt relationship. I was abso lu te ly fa sc inated by Mi ss Hecto r' s talk earlier this morning on Communication. She has bee n far bett e r and more convincing than I can hope to be on this subject, but J think perhap s ] can give it a diff e rent slant.
I think communication is very important and I will emphasize some of the point s whi c h strik e a do c tor in the difficulties in co mmunicating with patients.
The d oc tor /patie n t relationship was depicted graphi ca ll y for me by a picture which used to hang in my father's co n s ulting room in 1908; it was ca ll e d 'A D oc tor'. It showed a man sitt ing by the side of a sick child; hi s bearded c hin r ested in hi s left hand , hi s right ha nd o n hi s knee. ] n th e background were the two anxious parents. One se nsed that the doctor had been looking at the chi ld for a long time. What was he thinking? What could he derive from su c h scru tiny? Thi s sce ne was typical of the doctor /patie n t relationship i n 189 0 and t h e early decades of this cent ury.
The first rule, I am sure, of a d octor who wishes to com mand hi s patients' co n fide n ce is that h e mu st tell them the tr uth. I d o not think it is n ecessa ry always to tell the whole truth, as in a co urt of law but I think it is impracticable to tell a n untruth. A co nseq u ence is t h at if ever you are ca ught out in telling a lie , tha t patient and m a ny others will nev e r trust you as long as you live.
Therefor e J wou ld say that you must always tell the truth but not nece ssari ly the whole tr uth. Why do [ say this? Be ca u se there are ce rtain situ ations where you have to be very careful what you say to a pa tien t
Languag e is a means to communicate ideas, but a word may very well hav e an e ntirely different meaning to h ea rer and speak er. For instanc e, I n e ve r automatically use the word 'ca ncer' when di scussi ng the disease with the patient. In the first pla ce, when I see a patient , I do not use the wo r d because however certain 1 may be t hat there is cancer, I can n ot be abso lute ly certain until this has been confirmed histologically. I think you have to be extremely carefu l about this.
Cancer to me, as I'm sure it is to you, means a certain state of t he cells whereby they multiply in an anarchica l manner, and this state can be exorcised by proper treatment in a large number of cases; and therefore when one thinks of a case it does not necessarily mean that you are signing a death certificate. But to t he patient the word might have a different meaning; it may mean t hat they have this dread disease all over the body. This kind of picture can be easily conjured up by a patient. Thi s is not the purpose of communication.
I have seen ju st over 3 , 000 cases and have never had difficulty in explaining what is the matter with them without incurring or stirring up any fears in their minds and yet sticking to the truth. If they do ask, I say, 'You are suffering from a serious condition and unless we do something about this, it will be extremely dangerous'. In a number of cases that is sufficient information for patient to know perfectly well what they h ave.
Details of the treatment and prognosis are alway s carefull y explained to the patient. When we come to deal with the nearest re lative then I generally tell them , with few exceptions, not only the trut h but the whole truth. One shou ld take an optimistic view where this is justifiable and this i s the only principle that I go on.
I said that you must never tell a patient a n untruth but that it is n ot invariably ne cessary to tell the whole truth. Let me now exp lain the situat ion where I think that this is the case.
If you have two methods of treatment and you do not know which is t he bett e r, the only way of di scove ring thi s is o do a control led clinical trial. You divide the population su ffering from the disea se int o two; one is given treatment A, the other treat m ent B. In o rd er that no bia s sho uld enter into this comparison, the o nly way is to selec t patient s at random. That is t h e on ly way in which the trial can b e don e scientifica ll y
There is one rule which is paramount if your wife , mother, daughter, or any of your oved ones were suffering from this disease and you allowed the m to go into the trial , it is ethical ; if you would not allow them to , it is unethical. Controlled clini cal trial shou ld be run by a group of doctors. It is important that the whole group should agree that the trial is ethical.
Cle arly it is much better to tell patients that they are taking part in a controlled clinical trial becau se in principle it is better to be abso lut ely frank and to tell them what you are doing and why.
Another thing that I think doctor s must realise , and I am sure they do increasingly, is that there are r ea lly only two things a patient considers about his doctor - whether the examination is thorough, and whether he is kind. Therefore if you are really an orthodox medical practitioner you shou ld not neglect this kind treatment.
There have been three circumstances within the last 30 years which have influenced materially the.doctor / patient re lation ship. The first was the b i rth of the National Health S e rvic e in 1945 , the second the setting up of Academic Departments in nearly all teach i ng hospitals throughout the country, and the third was the arrival of the computer. I would like to consider the effect of these on the doctor / patient relationship.
The NHS m ea ns that t h e doctor is not really paid for services rendered , and I think this may have made a little difference. It should not properly have made any d i fference at all, of course, but I think that the NHS has had some effects on the doctor /p atient relationship coupled with other influen ces - a more scientific attitude of the laity.
I do not think Academic Departments have made much difference to the doctor / patient relationship ; indeed , I have found that the care and friendliness of the Academic Departments full-time professo rs mat ches that of the private practitioners , and in fact I should have thought co mpares very well with it.
Computers: I think many people fear that the computer will drive out the remains of humanitarianism from medicine. as indeed it may from many other fields as well. I do not think that anything will ever replace the care an d attention that a doctor may devote to exami ning a patient. Apparently all the computer can do is act as a reminder of what might be amiss because a computer has a store of memory from which it can recall almost instantly: but it can give the diagnostician a very good idea of the chances in any particular I think, perhaps one thing that has changed dr astica lly in the doctor / patient relationship nowadays is the lack of time the doctor h as for consultation Time is the essence of getting close to a patient , to find out what he is worried about, to distinguish between what he complai n s of and what he is worried about In the 19 70s, far more than in 1910 , the really understanding. sympathetic doctor is required, and I think it i s the duty of all of u s to imbue our doctors with this aim.'
Sometime s, however, native treatment res ulted in disfigu ning ClJlts and! scars, or appalling infection, which we were called upon to c ure - a difficult situation since we were then held responsible if the patient did not recover, and were liable to have a Juju c urs e put on us.
NOW BACK IN A LONDON HOSPITAL, DR. WATKINS RECALLS HER WORK IN NIGERIA WITH THE SJA MEDICAL TEAM LAST AUTUMN
by Sylvia M. Watkins, MA, BM, MRCP
The author with a patient-friend
IN THE JULY 1970 issue of the Rev1ew Mr. Percival reported on the activities of the St. John Ambulance medical team in Calabar, in the South Eastern State , after the end of the Biafran war. I was in the South Eastern State from August to November 1970, by which time the team had shrunk to three: Joan Shaw and Bill Duffy, who worked as nurse tutors at St. Margaret's Hospital, Calabar, and myself working as sole medical officer at a small hospital in the bush
The hospital, St. Joseph's at Ikot Ene, is only 15 miles from Calabar , but the journey can take 2 hours or more by
road. Th e road, or more accurate l y mud track , t hrough th e swamps outside the town is usually almost completely und e r water - haz ar dou s driving and ext r e m ely unpleasant if one has t o get out and push.
The ferry over the Great Kwah river (crocodile in fested, of course) consists of a raft on 4 dug-out canoes powered by an outboard motor until it was stolen, and then by 30-foot punt poles. A curious form of transport, perhaps, but much pleasanter than a London traffic jam on Monday morning. Beyond th e ferry the mud road is reasonably good as far as the next river, which one eit her p a ddles
through or risks b e ing carried ac ro ss pick-a-back.
The hospit al, run by t h e Catholic Mission, is looked after by two devoted and skilled Iri sh sisters who have had no regular medical help since before the Bia fran war. Me mber s of previous St. John Ambulance tea m s u se d to go to the hospital for a d ay's operating from tim e to time or a week or two of general medical ' care; occasiona l visits by a sister -d octor team from another Mission hospital at Anua beyond the Cross Riv er so lved furth er problems How eve r , with 65 in-patients , daily out-patient clinic s and weekly bush clini cs, a full-time resident doctor is well occupied.
We dealt with all types of diseases : malnutrition, malaria anaemia , tuber cul osis a nd h ernias wer e th e commonest problems, plus every imaginable obstetric comp li cation. The patients came from the surrounding villag es, some of which are 50 a nd 60 miles away; patients f rom greater distance s arrived on bicycles or hitch-hiked in one of the rarely passin g vehicles Some of them we regarded as being too sick or too severely inj ured to travel other than in a co mfortabl e and I well-eq uip ped ambulance; yet some ho w they trekked these long distances to seek help from the hospital. Many patients we would have lik e d to admit we couldn't admit, because there was either no vacan l b ed or they were unwilling to come in because they were also attending the witch do c to r an unorthodox combination of treatments, but one which worked well enough in most cases,
En route to the hospital in the bush -a river to be crossed
My first duty each day was to go round the wards a nd to visit any mothers who had deliv ered in the night and examine the new babies. The many children with gross malnutrition and severe anaemia were heart breaking sights Most of them were gi r ls : when food was scarce it was given to the boys while the girls were often left to starve. Likewise mothers always wanted to have boys and were usually disappointed if a girl arrived. This is because girls will marry away from home, while boys are expected to care for their parents in old age. Only once did I se e a mother thrilled to have a girl; this was a woman who had lost he r four previous babies. We delivered the girls by Caesarian section and in due course she was given the name of 'Mfon Abasi', meaning 'the Kindness of God.'
Out patients arrive d each day at about 9 am and t he nursing auxiliary took a brief history from each one before I went to see them at 10 .3 0. The commonest com plain ts were 'in ternal heat and waist pain', which could mean a nything from a strangulated hern ia to full-term pregnan cy to nothing at all. We had 30 to 40 patients each day, but a low attendance was diagnostic of market day
- like anywhere else in the world buying and selling takes prierity, over attending hospital. Op eratio ns were started in the late afternoon, if possible, to avoid the hottest tim e of the day. I very soon gave up trying to do an evening ward round: at about 8 pm the entire family of each patient moved into the ward, spread out their mats on the floor and went to sleep there, together with the patients, leaving only the really sick in bed. By the dim light supplied by an ailing generator it was possible to sort out the patients from their relatives and friends. The genera tor was turned off at about 10.30 pm and most things after that were done with the help of a hurricane lamp. Once a week we went 'to bush' - that is drove out by ambulance to a distant village where again patients came from miles around. 200 patients in a morning was not unusual, which meant an average of a patient per minute - rather different from medical out-patients in London! All one co uld hope to do was to sort out the sheep from the goats; the really ill we took with us back to the hospital, less serio usly ill we treated on the spotdressing wounds, opening abscesses, treating malaria, anaemia and minor infections as well as minor injuries. The others, some of whom I suspect had just co me for the outing and some free tablets (w hich they could then sell on the market), were dealt with very quickly: antimalarial, iron and aspirin tablets covered most things.
The author had her hands full at this remote hospital
managed to befriend the local medicine man, who was in fact a specialist in bone setting. (" Do c tor, you break your head, your back, your arms and legs, you break every bone in your body, I mend, you give me job in your hospitaL') His techniqu e was a combination of massage (using a palm oil and leaf mixture) , Juju and application of a primitive bamboo splint; most of the villagers preferred this treatment to my smart plaster casts. Except in the cases of serious fractures, the native treatment was probably as good as the orthodox variety, so I did not worry unduly if they spurned my treatment in favour of h is. One type of patient I positively encouraged to go to the witch doctor rather than to the hospit a were those with psychiatric problems ; difficult at the best of times here they were made impossible by the linguistic and cultural barriers. I am sure that these patients , terrified by Juju curses; omens and spells, by witches and wizards, fared better on Juju treatment than on a handful of tranq uilliser pills.
I was the last of the St. John team to leave the South Eastern State, though two doctors still remained in Ozoro in the Mid Western State However St. John will not be forgotten there. In Calabar there is an enthusiastic and flourishing Brigade , launched and trained by my colleagues and their predecessors. The spirit and work of St. John goes on in Nigeria, even though we have come home.
Another river to c ross but there's no ferry here
by Alan Vincent
THE YEAR was 1946; the place I forget.
The instructor switched on the projector.
'You see, gentlemen, I write on this sheet of glass, and, behold, behind me, the Writing on the Walt That's why we call this thing the Belshazzar'.
Why did overhead projectors remain in obscurity for so long? The reasons are partly technical, and partly bound up with the development of educational ideas
There have been many significant improvements-better light sources, silent ventilating fans, tilting lens units, for example. There has been competition between manufacturers to bring out cheaper and better projectors, and the use of this teaching aid is now firmly established in the Services, and in industrial training. Its use in schools is developing steadily, but more slowly.
If the overhead projector were no more than a rather costly substitute for the chalkboard there would be no point in promoting its use. As with so many other developments in educational technology, the hardware cannot be fully used until teachers create the right kind of software.
Probably the most significant factor in the development of the overhead projector has been the proliferation of copying processes primarily developed for use in business.
Concurrently with the development of mechanical means of making transparencies has gone a great deal of new work on art materials Teachers who wish to make their own material for the overhead projector can draw or write on Cellofilm with cheap fibretip pens, or they can produce professional-looking art work with technical drawing pens, adhesive films for colouring, and transfer sheets of printeF's type, for more permanent items.
But those who become enthusiastic users of the overhead projector will find that it is a hungry monster , devouring teaching material faster than it can be produ ced under existing conditions in schools. At the same time, it offers the most direct and immediate opportunity to a teacher to develop his own ideas and try out teaching material specifically designed for the classes he teaches, in the 6
real school situation It requires not a little skill and experience to design really effective visual material and it is the skill of the teacher rather than the artist that is most important.
It has now been established that transparencies can be printed by offset litho, silk screen and photogravure processes. There could b e available, in a relatively short time , a wide range of published transparencies covering basic topics in all su bj ects.
There are two obstacles, which I hope will in due course be overcome. The first is an adequate appreciation of the special advantages of the overhead projectorsome of the published transparencies which have already appeared could more cheaply and conveniently have been presented as filmstrips or slides. The second obstacle is the limited number of overhead projectors available in schools.
There is at present a sort of chicken and egg situation. Until there is more pu blished material available, schools may hesitate to install overhead projectors ; until there are enough projectors in the schools to provide a viable market , pu blishers will hesitate to invest capital in producing transparen cies.
Eventually there may well come a time when transparencies dealing with topical events or important issues can reach schools as quickly and as cheaply as the daily newspapers.
It is essential that not only a relatively sm all number of teachers actively associated with particular projects , but all teachers , should have time to k ee p abreast of developments in their own subjects, to consider the implications of the important changes being made, and to become aware of the new technology now available.
A recent repo r t rev ea led that in some schools expensive eq uipmen t was lying idle, either because teachers did not know how to use it, or because too much effort was involved to get it set up in the right classroom at the right time. No busines s firm requires its typists to fetch a typewriter from a remote part of the building, but teachers are constantly carrying projJectors, tape recGl !f ders and other equipment from classroom to classroom.
(a) The image can be projected high on the screen or wall; this enables all the class to see the projected image
(b) Drawings or illustrations can be pre-prepared on acetate sheet which can be used any number of times.
(c) Any subject can be broken down into separate overlays which can the m be com bined as the lecture progresses
(d) It is easier for the teacher to write or dra w on the horizontal surface of the projector instead of the vertical surface of a chalkboard.
(e) The teacher faces the c1ass when presenting his or her material.
If we compare the machinery in daily use in the home of a family of four or five with the equipment conveniently available to a teacher dealing all day with classes of 30 or 40, the disparity b eco mes obvious If a housewife had to share a washing machine with Mrs. Robin so n, a television set with Mrs. Brown, a sewing ma c hin e with Mrs. Jones and an electric iron with Mrs. Smith and still ke e p an eye on the children, she would unde rs tand something of the probl e m s of rJu n y teachers who try to u se mod ern equipment in sc hools. If our society is prosperous e nough to allow quite a lot of ex pensive machinery in mo st p eo ple's hom es, and co nsid era bly more expensive it em s in many offices, it should be able to provide certain basic equipment in eve ry classroom where it is needed
More equipment, more time , mor e training - but it is only by meeting thes e needs that we ca n take full advantage of the opportunities available for improving the quality of our te ac hing. To do it satisfactorily we may use filmstrips or slides, tape r ecor ding , r a dio or t elevi sion. But the one piece of equipment which ca n most easily function as link man is the overhead projector.
(R eprinted from the Times Educational Supplemen t )
THE OVERH EA D projector is basically an instrument for projecting lOin x lOi n transpar enci es or illustrations drawn on the surface of the machine using a special p e ncil. It is designed to be operated by the teacher in front of the class and the transparencies are projected on to a SClieen or white wall behind t he teacher. Th e basic shape and design of an overhead proj ec tor is shown in the illustr ation
The main advantages when using th e overhead proj ecto r are:
Fordigraph Educ Aids, Ofrex Ltd., Ofmex House, Horn Lane, London W.3.
Int. Tutor Machines Ltd , Ashford Road, Ashford, Middlesex.
Minne so ta Mining & Manuf. Co. Ltd., 3M House, Wigmore Stree rt London W.l.
(f) Class attention can be focused either on the teacher or the illustration by switching the projector on or off.
Opaque material (i.e. material which will not let light through) such as cardboard, metal, etc, can be used for making animated lOin x lOin displays
Such material will project as a silhouette or shadow on the screen and so the outline must be recognisable.
Sources
Overhead pi. ojectors cost from approximately £60 upward s and some sources of supply are:
Be ll and How ell A.V. Ltd. , Alperton House, Bridgewater Road, Alperton, Middl esex.
Rank Audio-Visual Ltd. , Woodger Road, Shepherd' s Bu sh London, W 12.
Nat. Audio-Visual Aids Centre, Paxton Place, Gipsy Road, London S.E.27
ESL Bristol, St. Lawre n oe House, Broad Street Bristol.
Elite Opti cs Ltd ., 354 Caerphilly Road, Cardi f f, Wal es I / I -
Pencils
---ne3igns can be made directly on to clear acetate and x-ray film using a black chinagraph pencil, stabilo true black or Mars Lumocolor pencils (in the case of china graph and stabilo pencils colours other than black will not project)
Unfortunately it is difficult to produce a fine lina for use on a 35mm slide with any of the above mentioned pencils, though in the case of overhead projector transparencies, it is easier.
Clarke and Smith Manuf. Co. Ltd., Melbourne Works, Wallington, Surrey.
pyser-Britex (Swift) Ltd ., Fircroft Way, Edenbridge, Kent
Materials for making transparencies
(N ote: The suggestions which follow also cover hand-made 35mm slides and other types of slides for use in slide projectors.)
The materials listed are a selection which have been found suitable for making transparencies. In certain circumstances some material will be far more suitable for overhead projector transparencies than slide and this has been indi c ated.
-...A-SSQ m b I'y
Transparencies
Overhead projector: The normal size transparency for the overhead projector is lOin x lOin or 8in x lOin Clear or frosted acetate, cellofilm or old x -ra y film may be used (x-ray film can be cleaned with a strong household soda).
Slide proj ector: The size for slide transparencies vary from a 35mm half frame and 35mm full frame to Super slide 2Y<1 sq. and sq. - acetate, x-ray film, tracing paper or glass may be used . In the case of frosted acetate, ce llofilm and tracing paper, normal water based inks or felt pens may be used for drawing the illustrations The finished tracing paper slide can be made more transparent by ru bbing thin oil on the reverse side of the illustration.
elikan inks for plastic are available for use on the clear acetate and these are of two types. Type T and Type K colours are intermixable and will etch into the acetate making permanent marking. Type T can be erased by the use of a damp cloth. These inks are particularly useful for making prepared transparencies and reasonable fine line work.
Winsor and Newton Vitrina inks for glass can be used equally well on acetate , ideal for painting in large areas of colour.
Engineer's Scriber: To produce a really fine even line on acetate or x -ray film, especially for 35mm slides , an engineer's scriber, or any sharp pointed metal instrument may be used. The drawing is lightly scratched into the surface of the acetate ; the etched lines on the slide will appear black when projected.
Technical fountain pen: Although a mapping pen and ink can be used to draw or write on acetate, the technical fountain pen e.g. Mars 500 - will give a smooth flow of ink and give a consistently uniform line without risk of flooding or blotting. The Pelikan ink type K must not be used in these fountain pens as the etching properties of this ink will damage the plastic parts of the pen.
Felt-tip pens: Spirit-based Miracle pens, glass fibre tip , Flashdry felt-tip ideal for shading (not very good for writing). Pentel glass fibre tip (Spirit felt pens can be erased with carbon tetrochloride). Water based : Projectachrome takes well to acetate. Transpaseal (available in five colours). This is a transparent PVC sheeting with a backing paper to protect its self-adhesive properties until required for use It can be c ut to any shape or size for use where large areas of colour are required on a transparency. Not advisable for use on a 35mm slide.
Letraset : The professional way of putting captions on transparencies , varied range of type styles and sizes; Letraset 194 is most suitable for slides.
Projector type transfers : A range of instant lettering sheets in Grotesque 216 style, with transparent coloured letters that will project in colour.
Transparency mounts : Overhead projector and slides mounts can either be bought or made
Masking tape : This can be used to secure the overhead pro jector transparency to the mount and for hinging overlays.
7
I hear that a normally quiet Manchester square recently resounded with the angry shouts of university students and Boroviat compatriots demanding the release of their revolutionary leader, Nikki Anu, who was being forcibly detained in the nearby Boraviat Embassy.
As the crowd began to get out of hand the police were called to restore order among the demonstratOFs and to speed up the flow of traffic whiclh had beeN. redu(;:ed to a crawl, as curiol!ls motorists slowed down to watch the incident.
BBC .radio and television units were on the spot when a Boroviat youth climbed onto a makeshift platform and began to incite the crowd into a riotous mob.
A retired army colonel, veteran of two world wars, attempted to l"emonstrate with the youth and after a bitter exchange of feeling the colonel tried to strike the youth with an umbrella; fists hegan to fly and the colonel received a blow' in the face which broke his speGtacles and caused nasty lacerations around the eyes. As the Golonel fell to the
ground he put out his hand to soften the fall and sustained a fractured collar bone.
At the same time a young woman in the crowd received foot injuries as a number of 'bovver' booted youngstel"s stamped awund; the police arrested one of them.
This arrest seemed to have the desired effect on the crowd, which became much more co-operative and moved back to allow a crew of firemen, who'd been held up in the traffic, to enter the square and
BY THE EDITOR
Barbados: Colonel J. Connell retirine a'> Commissioner 3.7.7l.
Berkshire: General Sir Rodney Moore appointed Chairman of the St. John Council in succession of Major J. O K. Purdey resigned for health reasons.
Ceylon: Colonel D. N. Rockwood is retiring as Commissioner and will be succeeded by Dr. Milroy Paul.
Lt. Col. D N. JilIa will succeed Dr. Milroy Paul as Dep. Comm.
Gibraltar: Mrs. M Soleci appointed Principal Superintendent(N) .
Guyana: Mr. J. L. Wills, CBE, appointed Chairman of Association Vice Sir Donald Jackson.
Lincolnshire: Mr. Nicholas Playne appointed Chairman of the St. John Council in succession of Commander Sir John Maitland , resigned for health reasons.
St. Vincent: Captain R. M. Thomas MBE, (Commissioner of Police) appointed Commissioner and Chairman Association. Vice Lt. Col.
S. A . Anderson resigned . St. Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla: Mrs Eardsley Glasgow appointed Chairman of Council and Mrs Clement Arrindelle Council Secretary.
Wiltshire: Mrs. Simpson appointed County Secretary.
give first-aid treatment to the colonel and the young woman.
The success of the crowd control tactics used by the police also enabled the BBC units to circulate among the crowd to obtain information on the situation. It was learned that the student leader, Nikki Anu, was being held in the Boroviat Embassy and was to be extradited to Boroviat that day.
Some five minutes after the fir e m en-first-aiders had entered the square and commenced treatment on th.e colonel, a Boroviat diplomat arrived on the scene waving an extradition order; a
BBC interviewer began to question the Boroviat diplomat when a youth drew a revolver and fired at the diplomat . A police officer, seeing the revolver , grabbed t he youth's wrist and, while preventing serious injury, even death, to the diplomat, the bullet struck a workman who was working on a scaffolding on the opposite side of the square.
The bullet lodged in the workman's spine and the fireme n first-aiders were faced with the additional problem of a serious injury t o a patient in a very pre ca rious position.
The firemen first-aiders had only thirteen minutes to deal with the three injured persons.
All this seemed r ea l enough to the 450 spectators who watched the scene enacted on the stage at the BBC Playhouse Theatre, Manchester, recently , but of course they knew that they were witnessing the finals of the Manchester Fire Brigade's Tweedale Shield first aid competition 197 1
It was quite a different matter , however, for the three four-man-teams finalists who put up a really professional performance to crown a hard fought competition which was won by London Road Red Watch 'B' team with 267 points out of 400.
Twenty four fire brigade teams took part in this year's co mpetition which is the twenty first sin ce its inception in 1950.
The Chief Fire Offi ce r , Mr. Harry Loma s, described the competition as 'coming of age'. Doctor Goronwy Hughes, county medical officer for SJ A Lamcashire, presented the shield to the winners
Dukinfield SJA (Manchester) now has its first headquarters, an £11,000 building opened during March For more than 70 years members have met in hired rooms
lancashire's mercy drugs round-up is om the move in St. Helens, I hear, to bring aid to refugees scattered around the World's troUble-spots.
The challenging mission, which cou ld
become co untrywide, is the idea of former university lecturer, Dr. Geoffrey Fairhurst area surgeon to the St. John Ambulance Brigade in St. Helens
'We have outlined our plan to 50 doctors in the area and we are hoping to draw up a panel of regular suppliers of drugs and medicines, said Dr. Fairhurst
When sufficient quantities are gathered at the mission base, at the SJ AB Standish Street HQ ., they will be airlifted out to particular 'plight' zones abroad.
On their arrival the drugs will be distributed by Dr. Fairhurst's former students who are working in hospitals abread.
At Berkshire's county first·aid competitions, individual events were conneeted to a central control point by radio - so large was the number of entries
(Photo: Reading Chronicle)
'We have worked out a network of helpers who I knew at medical school, and we hope to make regular once-a-week flights,' he added.
'If the pilot scheme is a success, we have plans to extend the operation to cover doctors all over Lancashire ,' said the doctor.
FAMILY TIES
often receive news of family associations with St. John from many parts of the country, but one of the most exceptional I recently received is the record of Mr. T. W. Clark, vice-president of Gloucester City Corps, and his son, Mr.
G. T. Clark, who is the c;orps superintendent, as they are both Commanders of the Order of St. John For father and son to achieve this distinction while both are still actively serving is probably unique.
Mr. Clark senior is regarded as the doyen of SJ A in Gloucestershire, having served from private to divisional superintendent over a period of fifty years on the active list, and then continuing without a break as divisional vice-president , president, and latterly as corps vice-president. This makes a total of sixty-four years uninterrupted service to the Brigade and the Order. He is now in his 87th year and still maintains a practical and useful connection with the Brigarle in all matters affecting its w0Ik and welfare. He is also a vice-president of the Gloucester Centre of the Association.
He joined the City of Gloucester Ambulance Division in April 1907, and was one of the first men to wear the uniform of the Brigade in the county, as his unit was the senior division.
His son, Mr. G. T. Clark, joined the City of Gloucester Ambulance Division in June 1931.
In his present appointment as corps superintendent he commands a group of divisions which concentrates on active public duty of a high order, the total hours of duty having been increased yearly since 1963, the 1970 total being almost 10,000 hours
In addition to his Brigade responsibilities he also occupies the position of vice-chairman of the Gloucester Centre of the Association and is secretary of the Gloucester City St. .T 0 h n h eadq uarters manage men t
committee.
These two officers have between them given 104 years' service to St. John, and ex clusive of war-time Civil Defence duties have contributed well over 7,000 hours of actual public duty, with an even greater total in otheF forms of St. John activities, such as instruction, administration and organisation.
On a final note it should also be mentioned that the late Mrs. M. G. Clark, wife of Mr. Clark senior , also served St. John in Gloucester and Cheltenham for twenty-one years (1925-46), served in Civil Defence throughout the 1939-45 War, and became a Serving Sister of the Order.
I am sure everyone will be delighted to hear that Mrs. Frances Pinches, divisional officer of Old Hill N ur sing Cadet Division, Worcestershire , was recently awarded the certificate of the Society of Protection of Life from Fire for her prompt action in saving the life of a baby from a burning house last November, as reported earlier in the Review.
An ecumenical service of dedication was celebrated by Archbishop David Mathew and Canon Wilfred Wat ts on the occasion of the presentation of a Land Rover, the gift of Lord Camoys and five friends, to S1. John Ambulance Brigade in Buck inghams hir e. The presentation took place at Stonor Park
Lord Camoys handed the keys of th e vehicle to the Lord Lieutenant, Major J. D. Young, who in turn handed them to The Earl Howe, President for Buckinghamshire st. John Ambulance. Those present, from left to right (picture left) : Lieut. Col. Richard Close Smith OBE, Chairman of St. John Council; The Lord Lie utenant , Major 1.
D. Young, P resi dent of St. John Council; Canon Watts, Archb ishop David Mat h ew; Lord Camoys, DL: Lady Camoys, County Supt. N; a nd The Earl Howe President St. John Ambulance Brigade, Bu ckinghamshire.
Divisional Officer Mrs. M. Westmuckett, of the Stotfold nursing ca det division, Hertfordshire, has had a l e tter from her cousin Bob Oyst o n in New Zealand
Mr. Oyston , who is in St. John out there , sa ys they a re very short of such things as plasticine, first- aid literature and cas ualty aids, and would therefore be very gr a teful if any divisions in t he UK cou ld help them by se nding anything along these li n es 'They would be r ea lly appreciat e d and put to their proper u se ,' Bob writes.
Mr. Oyston and hi s co ll eagues run t he local am bulance service, so their n ee ds are very real.
Any divisi o n which ca n help can contact Mr. Oy sto n a TE PUK E . B.O .P . North Island , New Zealand.
Dr. C. E Watso n , a r ea m e di ca officer, Scottish South Area, ha s co mp iled these in te rest ing n otes fo r u s : Infl atab le sp lin ts a re light and eas il y packed an d ar e simple to apply without specia l training ; excepti ng in fra c tur es of the femur they are probably more effective than a n y other fo rm of temporary limb sp lintin g, especially durin g transport over rough ground For these reasons they may be worth their r ather high cost , particularly to climbers, skiers a nd ambulance cr ews. They have, how ever, some dis advantages which must be born e i n mind . The splints ar e eas ily damag ed unl ess carefu lly packed a nd handled , a nd a sma ll pun c ture , or a tag pulled off t h e zip will m ake a splint usel es s (a puncture rep air outfit can be supplied, bu t may not be availab le in an emergency).
Another and mor e important considera tion is the possible danger from over inflation and interference with the blood supply of a limb The makers claim that it is impossible to attain dangerous pressures by mouth inflation ; experiment shows that it is possible to achieve a splint pressure of about 50 mm Hg by mouth inflation, which many people find a little tight for comfort, but the difference betwe e n a safe and unsafe pressure cou ld not be left for the patient to judge , except that a safe pressure should be the lowest which is felt to support a fracture comfortably. Trouble may Occur if the int ernal splint pressure rises as a result of lowered atmospheric pressure, which can happen if a splint is ililflated at ground level and then taken up in an aeroplane , or inflated at the bottom of a mine and then brought to the Surface.
at their recent divisional jumble sale Weight guessing, maybe ? ( P hoto: The Advertiser, S Croydon )
Theoretically the atmospheric pressure drops by 28 mm. Hg. for every I , 000 feet of ascent a nd the internal splint p r essure can be assumed to increase by a similar amount , although elasticity of the splint, lowering of the a mbient air temperature and condensation of water vapour inside the splint (a lik el y event following mouth inflation) will a ll tend to offset this in c rease.
In order to see what happens in practi ce, a splint was taken to the bottom o f a 3 000 foot mineshaft and inflated. The valve wa s fully unscrewed and bound with p.v. c insu la ting tape in an attempt to prev e nt leakage and then connected to a mercury sphygmomanometer.
Preliminary tests showed a leakage rate of 2 mm. H¥. per minute. The splint was inflated to 46 mm. Hg. at the beginning of the ascent at the half way mark the
Area
manometer registered 66 mm. Hg. and at the surface 86 mm .Hg . Allowing for 4 mm. Hg. leakage during the 2 minute ascent this showed an incre a se of 44 mm. Hg in splint pressure considerably less than the calculated figure of 84 mm. Hg. but enough to cause trouble to the blood supply of a limb
It is clear that if these splints are to be used in mines or in the air-evacuation of cas ualties a close watch must be kept and pressure adjustments made as required. Connection to a manometer is not practicable and the splints should be kept at the minimum pressure sufficient to keep the patient free of pain.
It would be a good thing if manufacturers and their representatives warned prospective users of the danger of over inflation due to alterations in atmospheric pressure
Early Steps
AT FIRST, Dunstable Ambulance Cadet Division did not think of canoeing as a reg u lar divisional activity, such as camping. The local Education Authority's county youth service offered a beginners canoeing course to members of registered youth groups and three of our cadets decided to have a go. This was in the late summer of 1969. The Gourse was for three weekends over a twe menth period.
by Malcolm Cowell (Divisional Superintendent)
One of our lads found this sport a bit cold and miserable but the other two, Geoffrey and Philip, fell for canoeing in a big way. Their tales of rapids , shooting weirs and capsizing for the fun of it aroused such interest among the other cadets that I too was caught by the idea. I had watched much of the canoeing course and was already half convinced before the enthusiasm began to spread through our members. But how were we to go about
making this sport a divisional activity?
Canoeing needs money, so we carefully examined our finances and eventually I proposed to the cadets that we could start in a small way with one canoe; to see how the idea progressed With everyone in favour Philip and I went off to Ottersports in Northampton on a canoe-shopping expedition. We bought St. Elmo, a plywood slalom canoe, two sets of paddles of different lengths, one lifejacket and a spray cover to fit St. Elmo's cockpit This cost us about £30 , including the discount which most manufacturers give to youth organisations.
At this stage St. Elmo was a kit of pre-cut plywood parts wh iJc h had to be 'stitched' together with nylon fishing line and then permanently joined with glass-fibre tape and resin. The whole canoe was then sanded down and marine varnished. This work was done by the cadets and myself in the attic of our headqu arters; the finished canoe was 'launched' out of a window and down a long ladder to the ground.
Our first attempts at sitting in the canoe were made in November 1969 on the Grand Union Canal, having purchased a one month licence to use a boat on the canal.
This glorious day in our canoeing career came only after the essential preliminaries were over - our swimming tests. All who were potential canoeis ts had to swim 50 yards dressed in shirt, shorts and plimsoles; permission, of course, was obtaine d from the pool superintendent to enter the pool dressed up like that. Next we checked that everyone knew the drill in the eve nt of a capsize This drill means paddling the canoe into deep water, throwing away the paddle , and rocking th e canoe until it rolls over. Now upside down, the canoeist ca lmly lean s forward across the foredeck, releases the elasticated spray cover, and tumbles out of the canoe bottom first.
Having surfaced to welcomed fresh air, the canoeist hangs on to the canoe, swims to collect the paddle, then gets ashore as quickly as possible The penalties for not turning completely upside down at our drills are bruised knees , derisory laughs from cadets on the bank, and orders to
get back and repeat the operation until it's done properly.
With only one ca noe available our progress was very slow, but by the spri ng of 1970 I was so bitten by the canoeing bug I bought my own craft. This was a glass-fibre slalom kayak costing about £30 from Avoncraft in Redbourne and came completely finished with the hull, deck and seat only needing to be j oined together around the gunwale with glass fibre tape and resin.
The addition of this second can"e to our fleet enabled us to put two people on the water at once, thu s increasing our safety and the speed at which we could
learn to turn our theoretical knowledge into practic al skill. So that this training could be more concentrated, I also took each cadet in turn for an afternoon tour on the Grand Union i nvolving a round trip of 6 to 8 miles. This proved to be the most effective training we had attempted so far, as in a single afternoon we could progress from learnin g to paddle a straight co urse , thro ugh simple turning and sideways manoeuvres, to being able to rid e out the wash of a passing coa l-carrying narrow boat or pleasure craft.
We're canoeists
Having established that canoeing as a divisional activity at Dunstable had come to stay, it was obvious that we had to set ourselves on a sound footing with the rest of the canoeing fraternity, so I became a memb e r of the British Canoe Union a nd we affiliated the division. This i mmedi ately made us aware of all t he cano eing competitions and touring meetings going on all over the country by providing us with a calendar and a quarterly magazine. Also we could now licence our canoes at special low rates , and get very generous trade discount on life jackets; two points not to be missed for the sake of a modest annual subscription.
1nstruction and novice tests
Up to now the instruction I was giving was based on interpretabon of the la t est books on ca n oeing and what I learned by watching the experts in competition, which was fine as far as it went, but obviously not the best way to teach other
Knots instruction for Richard prior to a test ru n
people good canoeing. Therefore when the county youth service arranged a canoeing course for teachers and leaders late last summer I went along. The course was for two weekends and properly introduced us to the basic strokes and methods of teaching, as well as giving us some background of the history of canoeing and the legal tangles of water access. We worked on the water for most of the time, having sessions where we taught each other basic strokes followed by criticism of our paddling and teaching techniq ues from the class and our instructor. We learned a lot about canoeing in a very short time.
On the second weekend of the course I was able to take two cadets, Graham and Richard, who had a day of training under the charge of some young canoeists from Bedford. On the Sunday afternoon they passed the B.C.U. novice test. This novice test is now discontinued, but it was the eq uivalent to our S t. John Proficiency test in canoeing for under lS-year-olds and thus gave us our first certificate holders.
Progressing further in our efforts to master canoeing we now affiliated ourselves to the Bedfordshire Young Canoeist Association, which is made up of youth groups like ourselves who are keen to see the sport develop in a controlled, responsible way. The B.Y.C.A. organised slalom competitions for novices, touring trips and youth long distance races.
Races and touring
Youth long distance races were sponsored last year by A voncraft of Redbourne and the series caused a measure of interest among the cadets. So
I proposed that if members were keen enough to cOlil'lmit themselves to taking part in the 1 9 71 series of L.D. Faces, then we would perhaps buy a craft suitable for the task. The cadets agreed so we spent some more money this time £4S to buy St. Angelo, which is a UK4 racing/touring class two-seater canoe. (Have you noticed how the price cree ps up each time we buy new equipment? If you thimk camping's expensive , try canoeing!)
I hardly dare tell you of our wobbly attempts to paddle St. Angelo On our first trip afloat Philip provided gent le motive power a nd steering f rom the front cockpit, while from the rear cockpit I concentrated on trying to keep us upright. We paddled about 200-yards on this trial, both to climb out limp from excessive concentration.
This rather shook our confidence , and we began to wonder if we hadn't taken on too much. However I took advantage of a long-standing invitation to visit a canoe club at Bedford during their Wednesday training sessions, where the instructor from the leaders' ca noe course offered to help. Brian, a B.C.U. senior instructor, is also a leader in the Boys Brigade a nd he invited me to take St. Angelo and the cadets to join the Boys Brigade at Bedford during their training. We have not b een many times as yet , but with an experienced B.B. lad in the front cockpit and a St. John novice in the rear, we have already gained much greater ability and confidence.
The outlook for us with our UK4 is mu ch better than on our first shaky trip , and we are now looking forward to entering the long-distanc e r aces a nd touring later this year.
When St. Michael?
Not for a lo ng time, rn 'm afraid We're short of money.
But thankfully there is no real requirement for another canoe a t SJA Dunstable , as the division is quite small. With my craft and another canoe one of the cadets bought from a Boys Bri.gade lad for £12, we ca n put five people on the water.
Also our four canoes trav el on a specially built roof-rack on my car; another cra,[t would mean ei th er a trailer or a second car, so it wouldn't only b e the cost of a canoe !
A practical note
Canoeing is great fun, but if others in St. John are going to join us do please get INTO the sport , don't dabble from the side line. Canoeing is a fast-growing sport but with limited water access in this country, for the opposition to the sport from land and riparian owners is considerable. Local ca noe clubs can give you information about which of your lo cal stretches of water are ca noeabl e , and where trou ble can be ca used by a bit of thoughtless paddling.
Canoeing ha s a 12 months season, with slalom or white-water racing in th e winter, and touring or long-distan ce racing in the summer. It's great fun- which our cadets thorough l y enj oy, especially the exciting prospects of rough water.
Books on canoeing
Canoeing Complete, by Ski llin g and Sutcliffe (Editors)
Canoeing Sk ills a nd Canoe Expedition Technique for Teachers and Leaders, by P. F. Williams
Living Canoeing, by Alan B yde
WHEN DEALING with an unconscious patient it is essential that a thorough examination be carried out. It must be methoGlical and painstaking, yet not too slow. All the senses must be brought into use, not simply eyesight.
History
Try to find out what has happened. Ask bystanders for the relevant facts. Was there an accident? Where was the patient struck? Was it the head, limbs or abdomen? Did the patient collapse in the street? Was it sudden? Did he stagger about first? Did he clutch his chest? Was there a fit?
14
Speak to the patient
The first-aider must always speak to the patient. In this way the patient's reaction, or lack of it, can be studied. The degree of unconsciousness can be assessed. There may be a muffled reply which could be helpful to the diagnosis. The patient may be able to hear a nd derive comfort from the first-aider's voice, although not able to reply.
LOQk before you touch
Look at the patient carefully before anything is done. The patient's colour must be noted, particularly blueness of the lip s, ears or fingers. Similarly th e
bones, cuts, swellings and abnormalities. Start with the head, then the neck, tmnk, arms, pelvis and legs.
Escaping blood or clear fluid
The eyes, ears, nose, and mouth must be looked at for escaping blood or clear fluid ( cere bro-spinal fluid). These are signs of a fractured base of skulL
Examine the eyes
The eyes should be inspected. If they are rolled to one side this may indicate apoplexy. The pupils are pin point in drug overdose but very large in deep co ma or atropine poisoning. They may be slow to respond to light as in drug ad di ction and deep coma. In brain damage the pupils are often unequal.
Examine the mouth
Look into h e mouth for traces of tablets or poison. If any foreign material is ther e, particularly a dislodged denture, remove it a t once. This applies also to sweets or chewing gum. Smell the breath
for alcohol, rotten apples (diabetic coma), or any poisonous or corrosive fluid.
Take the pulse
The pulse must be taken regularly. It is thin and fast in shock, and if it increases the con dition is worsening. It is slow in compression of the brain, if it gets slower the pressure is increasing. The pulse is often irregular in heart conditions. A full and bounding pulse may be found i n apoplexy.
Watch the respirations
The pattern of breathing must be studied. It is rapid and shallow with injury and shock; stertorous in apoplexy; r a ttling in deep coma; and irregular when the brain has been damaged. It is barely heard in hypothermia and some cases of deep coma.
Feel the forehead
The skin is hot and dry with fevers, hyperglyca e m ic coma, heat stroke and
MAY 1971
As Commander (Brother)
George Walker PhD, MSc.
Major Jam es D. Cameron MBE, TD.
Fred erick H. Vollam MB, CHB, MRCS , LRCP. Dr. Hellmuth-Erdhardt Hei tz
As Officer (Brother)
R. E. M. Pilcher.
Sir Felix Bmnner Bt. MA. Anthony C. Parker.
Thomas A. Casey, MCh, FRCS.
Lt.-CoL James Dowson , MB, ChB, FRCS. William J. Powell.
Peter H. Tribe, MB, BS, MRCS, LRCP. Eric F. Bazley.
Gervase De La Poer Casse ls, OBE. Wing-Cdr. Chr istop h er C. G. Rawll, MB, ChB, DTPH, CIH.
C. D. Gill , OBE. Ronald Wilson.
Victor J. MitchelL
The Hon. Arthur C. St.I. L. John ston.
Maj.-Gen. Edward M. Hall, CB, MBE.
As Associate Officer (Brother) Walter Graham.
movement of the chest must be observed. Signs of i nj ury together with blood and vomit should be looked for. Note the position of the limbs and if they are twitching. Look for t ablets , a note, or a pill bottle. These may be clutched in th e patient's hand
Feel the whole body
A full examination of the whole body is necessary. Don't be misled by the obvious. For example, a scalp wound may be the result of the fall and not the cause of the coma. If unconsciousness is due to violence, remember several injuries may be present. The first-aider must gently fee l the whole body, searching for broken
As Officer (Sister)
Lady Doroth ea E. Brunner, OBE JP
Miss Anne E. Simpson, SRN.
Mrs Ethel Burt.
Miss Dora M. L. Foot.
Miss Eileen McGill, SRN , SCM.
Miss Christina M. Hutcheon.
Mrs. Elsie M. Newell.
Mrs. Phylli s L C. Storrer.
Mrs. Beatrice A. Bromfield.
Miss Hilda Brown, SEN.
Miss Mary
Miss Lucy E. Jew, SRN, SCM.
Mrs. Vera M. Crosby.
Mrs. Fan ny Kemp.
Miss Marjorie Milner.
Miss Barbara M. Coley.
often in It is moist and swea ting in shock, hypoglycaemia epilepsy, fainting and haemorrhage.
The sixth sense
The first-aider must develop a sixth sense. This is what tells him that the patient is not as in hysteria, or that the patient is getting worse. This comes with practice and by evalua ting symptoms and signs whenever h e has to undertake first-aid.
Be calm
The examination of the unconsciou s patient must be detailed and methodical, otherwise some vital sign may be missed
The first-aider must be cairn and self controlled, and this may be difficult if crowds gather, but it is the only way that a diagnosis can b e reach e d. Treatment can then be started and the situation brought under controL
(Reprinted from Ambulance Bulletin, The Electricty Council)
As Serving Brother
Alfred Sloley.
Jam es Haughton.
Major Norman E. Shaw, MB, CM, F RCS , LRCP.
John W. Giles
John W. Towell.
Major John S. R. Reynolds.
The Rev. Roger D. StJ. Smith, TD, MA, BD.
Richard Pye.
Gordon J Burgess
Trevor R Constable
Roger J. Phillip son.
Leo T. G. Smith.
William L. Blofield.
Eric H. Giles.
John Bushnell.
Albert H. H. Hopkins.
Aflred E. Gillard.
Herbert J. White.
William L. Blick.
William H. G. Gibbs.
Ernest A. Curzon.
Loui s Roberts.
Herbert J. Braund.
Isaial1 R. Boswell.
John S. Edwards.
George H. Webley.
John T. Haine.
Lewis A. Jarman.
John Pepper.
Joseph W. Thorp e
Percy BoyalL
Frederick W. Sault.
Stanl ey H. Pur ser, MA MB, BChir.
William J. White.
James C. Gemmell.
George W. Thompson.
Sydney Hindmarch.
Percy Woodlands.
Willoughb y D. R. StUbbs .
Cecil R. Cox.
Derek L Nicholls, MRCS , LRCP.
Frederick J. Cooper.
Clifford Green.
Harold AIkwright.
Reginald G. Reynold s
Bert A. Starmer.
Brian C. Carter. John S Turner.
Ronald W. Holm es.
As Serving Sister
Mrs. Muriel Riv ers, SRN.
Mrs. Margaret Partch SRN, SCM. Miss Dorothy Palfreeman.
Mrs. Emily Handcock.
Mrs. Rub y 1. Cooke
Mrs. Dor een A. Flowerday.
Mrs. Margaret C. J. Steward.
Miss Marion J. Wilson.
Miss Rita M. Knight.
Miss Eileen M. Asquith.
Mrs. Margaret P. Knott , SRN, SCM.
Mrs. Patricia R. Giles.
Mrs. Alice M. Carey, SRN.
Miss Ivy Lov egrove.
Miss Mona Lovegro ve.
Miss Gladys M. Huntley.
Mrs. Kathleen A. Keas t.
Mrs. W. J. Lamb.
Miss Alice N. Ripper.
Miss Lenora McLean.
Miss Eunice A. Heywoo d.
Mrs. Florence M. Fretwell.
Mrs. Joyce L. Ponting.
Mrs. Maud M. Taylor.
Miss Gwendoline M. Keller.
Mrs. J. M. Ganner.
Miss Mary. V. Bentley.
Miss Lilian M. Hougham.
Mrs. Nellie L May.
Major General Sir Ralph Hone, Knigh t of Justi ce and memb er of Chapter General, introdu ced to th e Lord Prior his Personal Esquire: Richard Michael Hon e. Ray mond Lee Bellwood, Knight of Ju stice and memb er of Chapter Gen eral, introduced to the Lord Prior his Personal Esquire: Richard Charles Lee Bellwood.
from Watkin W. Williams, Cemmander SJA Rucks. Can we wonder that we are sufferi.til!g a seriQltlS leakage of Gadets at about the age of 14, and two years hefore they qualify for promotion to adult divisions, if the cadet 'image' presented both to the Brigade itself and to the public at large is that shown by the cover picture of the April issue of the Review ? And in the same issue there is a photograph of Princess Anne talking to fOU F young people m n cadet uniform, two of them are stated iIDl. the captiQil1l to be aged 10. Presumably they are St. who are now permi tted to wear uniform witllout badges, but they aFe not described as juniors and the natural inferelPlGe is that they are 10-year-old ct:adets. On another page a photograph is shown of a boy in uniform wh o is described as a 1©-year-old cadet, while the article on the same page refers to a nursing cadet aged 8.
All credit to these children for wanting to join our ranks and for being such keen juniors. Eut if we descFibe and portray them, directly or by implkati@n, as- 'cadets' it is not surprising if the l4-year-old feels it is time fie or she moved on from such a kindergarten to something more challenging and adventurous, without waiting to reach the age of promotion to adult membership. The minimum age for eadet membership is 11, and if we want the cadet divisions of today to become the adult divisions of tomorliOW we must provide those in the 11 to 16 age-range with a stimulating aIDd challenging programme of training in service and adventure which will grow up with them and hold them till it culminates in promotion to adult divisions containing a high propQlition of ex-cadets of whom as many as possible are ho]ders of the Grand Prior's badge. Bucks. Watkin W. Williams
from T. Phe1ps, Chairman Gloucester and Cheltenham First Aid League
The forming of a rirst Aid League first occurred to me while attendiftg a first aid competition in Harrogate with the leI team from GloucesteF. I met a man who had already started such a league in Doncaster, and he explained how it was organised. It was obvious at Harrogate that the teams from this league had much more experitmce in dealing with casualties in the l\:@mpetition, and I U'I.<£>ught if GloueestFr had a F.A. league we too could benefit fr@m the practice involved in these types of competitions.
I contacted several people concerned with first-aid work, and wheID I explained the iclea they all very keen. A meeting was held dUFing June 1970 and a F .A. league was formed. At a second meeting a s@t ()f ru1@s was drawID up and teams were registered. The (I:()mmittee realised that a lot ()f mard work and goodwill would be necessary to make the leagme a success, so it was deci.ded to make it a civil league, which teams from factOFies, youth clubs, Red Cross, etc, coulm enter providecd a current first-aid certifieate was h@ld. It was also decided to limit the numbers of teams to five duifing the first year so that unforeseen problems Gould be more easily solved. The first five teams were: Glouc@ster St. George, Gloucester City, ChelteNham Spa, Cheitenham Town and Cheltenham Friendlies.
A trophy, to be held by the winner for a year, was presented to the by a Mr. W. R. Roberts.
eompetiti ems are held once a montfu and each team takes it in tum to stage them; the home team, e>bviously, CaTIlilot take part in that eompetitioID, but they gain two p@i.'l'I.ts for the stagiIDg. The points are awarded as follows: 5 for 1s1: place, 4 for 2nd, 3 for 31;d, 2 for 4th, ami two poilfllts f or the home team. The points are totalled at the end of the season when the trophy is presented to the winner. The consists of a team test followecd by four cdiagn @siJs tests, of an individual practical test. Dming the fiFst yeaF the league provided a chance to tratn new mernbeFs for the teams, and am op{QlortuTIit y to improve the standard OF fust aid general. The diagnosis test mas pFOved quite a slucess, aNd it is iho[2led the will oontinue to p Fo gress next season as well as it has this seaSOH.
Glou cester Derek T. Phelps. 16
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to tine Editor, alth@ugh published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or tine Order of St. John and its Foundations. Although readers may sign published letters with a pen·name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
fH)m J. Wil!kinson, Cheltenham Corps Superintendent
Competitions are undoubtedly one of the best methods of improving practical first aid. But the running of competitions presents its own particular hazards, not always appreciated by the competitors
For instance snags arise to mar the high standard of staging and casualty faking demanded in the present day competitions; 'patients' fail to arrive; someone arrives late, throwing a carefully timed schedule out of gear; the venue chosen often does not lend itself to the particular setting desired , so that props cannot be introduced or fixed. Frankly, some of the venues are too 'posh'. How for instance can a load of building material or a wrecked car be dumped in a modern school haU? The vagaries of the English weather preclude the use of an outdoor setting for an important competition.
The new First Aid League has done much to bring a better understanding of the problems, as each team is in turn responsibl e for the staging and running of a round of the competition.
The change of leadership, so that each member, however j unior , is given the chance to show how he would handle a given situation, has proved its worth. Some members , maybe talked into making up a team, have really blossomed.
The atmosphere is generally less tense than some of the major events. Also people are getting to know each other by name , instead of just someone from Gloucester or Cheltenham.
The originators of the idea are to be congratulated in their efforts to raise the standard of first aid. For this is always their pr imary aim - to bring about a better realisation of the problems of running a competition, and of being a competitor and judge. Cheltenham J. Wilkinson
from Mrs. J. E. Campbell, divisional officeF
May I suggest that a supplement be issued - prior to a chapter being added in the Manuals - both for first aid and home nursing , with reference to 'treatments' of a non-white casualty and d iagnosis.
'Ykere aFe now so many no n -whites in Engla n d and the average St. John Ambulance [J0 ersonne1 would, for instance, have difficulty in diagnosing jaundice in a Chinese, or the pale face of a dark-skimmed persolilJ in a faint.
Preston J. E. Campbell
fFfilm
E. S. OjeFiakhi, Centre Secretary
While Feadiro.g tke No V'ember 1970 Review, we came across Mr. Sydney Jiacobs pointing out some anomalies in the revised edihon oJ First Aid Manual.
A1l poiJili ts he raised we re COFFect and we of the Nigerial!1
Ra ilway Distr rn ct @f t l'ille St. John Ambulance agree with hi m an @ wish tibl at the la st edition b e fo r e th is current one b e us e d for
dasses un til. the mistakes and the bad compilation of the current are rectified.
bil. addition to the po nts raised, the new manual does not fall line with the questions set out on Form ER/F AC/61 (OVERSEAS) and BF/11A. The Fe are many questions the answers to which are not in the new edition .
Nigerian Railway Corporation
TEACHING FIRST AID
E. , S. Ojeriakhi
from E. J . Baker, Class One does not know th e 10 cal circumstances in whj.ch Mr. R. A Radley (March Review) is disappointed at not having any opportunity to teach first aid, but most St. John members would disagree, I think, with his claim to have a pre-emptive right to such 'opportunity.
He reveals the standard attitude of many schoolmasters that they , and only they - not parents, uncles, graIDdfathers or 'unqualified' teachers - have the right to teach. Those of us who are old enough in the movement can recall that, in the early 1950s when the professional ambulance services were being formed and were gradually taking over from us (and this was quite inevitable!), we were often told - sometimes by a new recruit to the professional service, who, we could recall with a rueful smile, got his first certificate at the last first aid course we had run - that 'you can't be any good at this or you'd earn your living at it, as I do.'
If he had his way most divisional officers and all cadet officers would be schoolmasters; this would have many advantages but, unfortunately, we do not seem to attract such members of the public, and, since first aid is so peculiarly practical, the present methods (whereby the fairly elementary anatomy and physiology is taught by a doctor and the practical aspects imparted by experienced and dedicated divisional members) are very successfu1. In my own division such methods have enabled well over 100 members of the public to gain adult certificates every year for scores of years. The problem is that we do not seem able to attract more than one or two of each class into Brigade membership - and I cannot see how radical changes in teaching would alter this. Also the small trickle from cadets into adult divisions is due to many causes (all of them well-known) and would not be materially altered if the cadet officers were 'q ualified teachers.'
I know that many scouters are schoolmasters - and that this greatly benefits that movement - but I cannot agree that, until we can attract such worthy members, we must refrain (as though from a sacrosanct role) from inspiring others to take aT! interest in first aid and, by drills, competition training and thousands of hours of public duty , acquire an expertise which enables us to supplement the doctor's lectures.
In my experience, in St. John membership it is usually very easy to find ways in which to extend one's service and application. Since you quote that worthy schoolmaster, dear old Watkin Williams, in your closing paragraph , let his illustrious example inspire you. Keep on trying , Mr. Radley, the movement cam use every good member.
SISTER MONICA
from Mrs. L. Lafferty, ASO Miciu,a m Nursing Division (South-Western Area L()ndon) has a n:ember who must be, I think, unique in Brigade membership. SIster Monica is a nun belonging to a French Order established in the Somth of England - the Order of the Holy Family. This Order concerns itself with nursing and education and apart f rom the eOIDvent at Tooting where Sister Monica works, they have a fui ospital at L a mbeth and a home for elderly ladies at Bromley in [(ernt.
Sister Mon iea told me that all the nuns are expected to do sort of sOG[al wo rk outside the convent, and she chose to JGUiI. the St. John Ambu lanc e Brigade. She wears uniform like any otlhl.e !F member, an d takes [part in any duties which arise , including the iIGon don theatres, although so far she tells me that sh e has not
been called upon to attend any of the more 'hair raising' (to pun) ones It was a great pleasure to meet this charming, softly spoken young woman, and I wonder if we might hope for more recruits from a similar source . Banstead, Surrey
SMOKING COVER
from C. Hamill, cadet
J. F. Lafferty
On seeing the March Review I was shocked at the picture on the fro;nt cover: a cadet lighting a cigarette. Perhaps the eight girls do put in 40 hours a week, but don't you realise that there is a campaign to stop people smoking? I know she was helping the man by lighting his cigarette, but the picture looks more like an advertisement for cigarettes. hope you will be more careful in choosing your cover picture in future.
Wirral, Cheshire C HatriLlI
Edit: Quite right.
E. J. BAKER'S ILLUSTRATION
from Miss M. E. Garrett, District Officer
On page 13 January Review one of E. J. Baker s illustrations (above) caught my fancy and I wondered if I could have a reproduction of it to frame for the house at the sea I have bought for the training of cadets? It would, I know, tickle their fancy and also enliven chats about the History of the Order.
Belfast
M. E. Garrett
Edit: A number of enquiries have been received for copies of this illustration, so if anyone else is interested in 'tickling their fancy or that of their cadets' I can get special art proofs, measuring about 8 inches square, printed at a price of 2Sp each, postage paid.
from Miss A. Cooper, Area Secretary
In reply to Mr. Wing May Review: no, the mobile first-aid unit in Birmingham is not used for the transportation of casualties, an ambulance goes to the site with it. I am quite sure Mr. Wing would be pleased to work with it on his first aid duties. We in Birmingham are proud of it.
Central Birmingham Area A. Cooper
weFe conveyed by hand-wheeled litters to at Burnley (12 miles), Leeds and Bradford (30 to 35 miles). Two members of the local division would arrange to be away from work to collect the patient and take him or her to the local rail way station and travel in the luggage van of the train to the appropriate town, then wheel the patient through the streets to the hospital. Between Barnoldswick and Leeds or Bradford two separate changes had to be made at intermediate stations, and a similar change had to be made when transporting a patient to Burnley. There were no trains or buses on Sundays and it is recalled that on one occasion a woman suffering from a fracture of a lower limb was given first-aid by two members during a Saturday night and because of lack of transport on Sunday, the local livery firm were contacted and two members transported the woman in a horse-drawn cab to Burnley hospital at 6 am on the Sunday morning.
The above photograph, which recently appeared in a Yorkshire weekly newspaper, was taken at Barnoldswick, Yorkshire, in 1925. It shows the members at that time of the Barno1dswick St. John Ambulance Brigad'e and Nursing Division. Its publication, with the names of the pecp1e in the photograph, aroused considerable local interest, so a description of what it was like to serve in the Brigade in 1925 may be of interest to younger readers
]But to do this success€ul1y I must first tell you about Barnoldswick and the conditions that prevailed there at the time,
The town is an Urban District with a population of IOta 11,000 and is situated about two and a half miles from the Lancashire border at an altitude of some 500 feet above sea-level close to part of the Pennine range, Its industry in 1925 was practically all cotton weaving. There were 13 cotton mills in the town and these mills were occupied by some 28 firms engaged in the weaving of cotton cloth,
After World War I there was a cOl'lsiderable amount of re-organisation necessary in the local branch of the SJAB. Twelve members of the Brigade had lost their lives when the hospital ship Rohilla had sunk off Whitby in October 1914 while proceeding from a port in Scotland to pick-up wounded men at Dunkirk. These men were members of the Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve, who had been mobilised with the fleet reserve on August 3 1914,
One of the first things to be done after the war was the purchase of a new headquarters. Previously a room at the gas works had been used for this purpose, and for lectures and meetings a room above the local Post Office was used. However, in 1920 it became possible to purchase a suitable premise in the form of a house wirth. a fairly large room and garage included underneath. The deposit on the property was raised from members, who loaned amounts varying from £ 1 to £5 free of interest Later an
extension to the premises was made by buying the house next door.
Financing the upkeep of the new premises and the provision of uniforms and equipment had, of course, become an increasing problem. Previously members had purchased their own uniforms in addition to glVll1g a small members subscription to the Brigade This was considered to be no longer appropriate and many and varied were the means devised to raise funds in order that the public could be served with a good first-a id service. For thirteen years from 1920 an annual gala a nd demonstration was successfully held during the month of June. These events generally paid for the premises which had been purchased as headq uarters. Whist drives, flag days , concerts, social gatherings of members, etc, all helped to raise money to pay for the general expenditure.
'The traJ llil sport of non-ambu] a lilU patients between their homes and hospital , or from a street or works accident to home or hospital wa s quite a problem during these early days. Pahents
Circumstan ces such as this inspired members of the Brigade to inaugurate the organisation of a local motor ambulance jo int committee, with an officer of the Brigade as its chairman. The joint committee consisted of representatives of all public bodies in the town and by their money raising efforts they were able to purchase the town's first motor ambulance. The ambulance was immediately presented to the Urban District Council, which provided a driver and the Brigade provided attendants at the expense of the Brigade. This arrangement was continued until the beginning of World War II. Many were the times when members of the Brigade and Nursing Division were out all night with th e motor ambulance, returning to town at 5 or 6 am , and then going to work at 7 am in the cotton mills , where nearly all the members were employed
With the increased accommodation at the new headquarters, more use was made of the facilities. There were three practice evenings a week for members; meetings of the various committees and an increased number of social events took place. New classes were formed and refresher courses for the police and others were held. The Brigade and Nursing Division gave generously of their services at all public gatherings, such as football matches, local steeple-chases etc. They did road patrol work on Saturdays and Sundays at two villages on main roads some 3 h and 5 miles distance from the town. When the Royal Agricultural show was held at Harrogate (30 miles from Barnoldswick) the Brigade provided male ambulance personnel for the whole week of the show. Members of Barnoldswick Divisions, for years, did yeoman service to the local community by undertaking the nursing of patients in their homes, especially during the night. In almost every cotton mill in the town there were members who rendered first-aid in a voluntary capacity to any person sick or injured. None of the factories in those days had first-aid rooms as such, and any treatment carried out had to be done in such conditions as were available at the time. First-aid boxes at the mills or factories were maintained by the Brigade. The divisional storekeeper obtained leave of absence from work periodically to replenish the stock of equipment used. The cost of equipment and the storekee per's loss of wages being re-imbursed by the local Cotton Manufacturers Association, which gave general support to the Ambulance movement.
First-aid nursing competitions were held both in connection with the Annual Gala and Demonstrations and within the local divisions. The Gala competition was open to all England and teams which
took part in the national com petitions such as the Argenta Cup, the Pim Trophy and the Dewar Shield competitions were always included in the entries.
Although Barnoldswick is included in No. 5 District in the Brigade, the geographical position of the town and its near proximity to Lancashire caused the co-operation with the East Lancashire (No.4 District) divisions at Nelson, CaIne and Burnley districts to become firmly esta blished, and the in t erchange a f visits between these divisions or Corps was most frequent, especially when church or other parades were held. Never-the-less the relationship between the am bulance movement of Barnoldswick and their neighbours in No.5 Yorkshire District was most ccngenial and joint parades and annual inspections were held.
The Barnoldswick Division was formed in 1895 and a perusal of some of the records suggests that the 1920s were very active and progressive for the movement in the town; for it was during this period that so much service was rendered so freely to the community. Some examples are: 245 cases removed in the motor ambulance, hundreds of cases of first-aid treatment , some 45 members of the Sick Berth Reserve attended annual training at H. M. Naval establishments or ships. All this in one year. It was in the late 1920s that the Barnoldswick Division was promoted to Corps status, with a mem bership of 15 O. This, in a small town with a population of IOta 11 thousand, was surely very creditable if not unique What was it like to be connected with the movement at this time? The answer is surely - it was grand; and all those who can look back on those days are justified in feeling proud to have served in the 'oldest Order of chivalry in existence' , to have upheld the worthy traditions of the Order and in some small degree its great motto: Pro Utilitate Hominum. 1928 or 29 - after SJA Barnoldswick had become a Corps
Glasgow
On April 19
Pri0ry-Council attended the Annual General Meeting ef the Glasgow branch of the St. John Association. This was the Council's first visit of this kind to Glasgow, and it was organised on the same lines as that to Edinburgh, which I described last month. The Council learnt of the success of Glasgow's fund-raising bedy, the Ladies' Committee under the chairmanship of Mrs. Leggat Smith. This committee has met the cost of redecorating the Home at 32 Mansion House Road, Langside, the popularity of which is shown by the waiting list for admission. But perhaps the most interesting development was described to the AGM by Mr. M. E. Tayler, chairman of a special sub-committee set up to explore the possibilities of a suggestion by Professor W. Ferguson that protective
care housing for old people be established. Iilil this scheme flats for the el d erly would be built around a communal centre under the supervision of a warden. The residents could ljve independent lives, but they could also use the communal facilities. The sub-committee has found a possible building site, but no less than £100,000 must be raised t o make the scheme a success. The meeting ended with the showing of two films, one of the St John's Festival in Aberdeen last year, and the other of the work of the Ophthalmic Hospital in Jerusalem.
Torphichen and Denny
The first group of young people at Torphichen have passed their preliminary examination and are well on the way to
becoming fully-fledged members of the ililew youth wing of t he Order in Sco dan d And a new cadet branch is now Ibe ing founded at Denny
Aberdeen
Mrs. J Macklin, matron of the St. John Nursing Home, resigned in November. Her place was taken by Miss Mary Hepburn, RFN, RGN, whose appointment took effect from November 20. Miss Hepburn, whose home is in Elgin, trained in the City Hospital, Aberdeen, and was for eighteen ye a rs ward sister in the Royal Infirmary, Inverness.
In the January 1971 St. John Review there was an article on Denny. In this article after the words 'crown of the sun' there was inserted per incu riam (Edi t: My translation 'through carelessness'. Mea culpa - my fault) in brackets the word s 'an extinct Scottish coin'. The author of the article, Colonel MacLeod, wishes to point out that Mary Queen of Scots was brought up in France and the royal charter uses the words 'ecus de soleil' , which can be translated as 'crowns of the sun'. An ecu was a French gold coinnot Scottish - worth at the time 26/3d.
Grand Prior cadet, Sandra €0meS from a St. John family: her m0ther is assistant district superi ntendent (N) of East Glamorgan, her father superi ntendent of an ambulance cadet division and her brother is als0 a Grand
Trouble at Peka Peka
Th e K a pi t i Combined Divi sion was asked to be on public du ty a t the rock music festival held on Easter Saturday. But as Saturday is a normal working day here, as well as having other fixtures to atten d, we could muste r only three personnel for the duty.
We starte d at 10 am and got the usual cut fingers, hands etc, during the ea rly part of the day. But in the afternoon we started to get individual 'punch-up' victims , flattened noses and cut eyes. We then received a report from a bystander of a knifing. Mr. Holt went to investigate but he couldn't find the victim. The police had also received the report and turned up in 'mufti' to check with us and then disappeared into the erowd.
Towards late afternoon we had treated thirteen patients, most of them run-of-the-mill injuries, wh e n a nother knifing victim was reported. Mr. Bell
went off to check t his and found a Maori chap, in a car and supported by weeping friend s, with a knife wound between the ribs on the right side. He was co nscious and quite distressed. The wound its elf wasn't ble e ding very much and we didn t know how deep it was. So we de ci ded to play safe and send him t o hospital. The Otaki ambulance was radioed to pick him up ; he was left in Mr. Bell's care.
At this time other injuries were reported to us at the stage. Mr. Holt and I went to the 'music' centre to find two victims who had been injured in a bottle fight. Whil e we were treating them - all hell let loose , with fights galore
At the b ac k of t he stage was a covered area which we used as a casualty department ; as victims were 'dropped' au tside their friends carried them into us. W; then moved outside, treating victims where they had fallen, while fighting was going on around us all the time.
The area now looked like a battle
f ie ld , with casualties everywhere. We treated patient after patient ; we saw people drop t o be carried away by their friends bef ore we h a d the chance to treat them
The weapons us e d were boots, bottl es and bike c hains Most of the injuries were about the head and chest, with the exception of one bloke who 'co mplained loudly of a strained toe - nothing elseand demanded treatment. He was told to wait, others were far worse. (Looking back - amusing; but at the timeannoying.)
As we treated victims we were threatened by the fighters to leave the casualties alone, or we would be n ext Then the uniformed police arrived and stood alongside us as we worked Boywas I glad to see them
Eventually the patients were removed to hospital; the bands stopped playing; the day was over; we left thankfully. 1. L. Watkins, divisional officer.
21
nnifer
Salm
nd
DORCH ESTE R - T h e Day R est Ce nt re fo r the Eld erly (co nv er t e d f rom o ld st abl es wi th he help o f lo ca vo lun teer s) was opened in Dor c h ester in Marc h. T o b egin w it h it is limit e d to six p e opl e eac h o n thr ee days a wee k. On Friday s th e Bri ish R ed Cro ss So c e t y at e nd he Ce ntr e, o n Mond ays t h e Ol u r c h es whil e on Tue s da y s th e Nu r sin g Divi sio n ' SJA s r espo nsibl e. 111 e aim is fo r he Ce ntr e t o b e op e n ed 5 d ays a wee k , a n d tak e 10 p e opl e daily. On th e d ays th a t th e BRCS o r SJ A do not att en d a ra in ed nur se mu s be in attendan ce, p lu s vo lun tee r s from Chur c h es WI WRVS, e t c. Th e eld erl y wh o at e n d th e C e ntre on e day a week ar e r eco mm e nd e d b y th e ir do c tor s or we lfare o f fi ce r s beca u se th e y ar e house-b ou nd. They have morning coffee, a midday m eal (usually su p pli e d cooke d) an d aft e rno o n t e a all for 2 0p. E v e ntu a ll y th e guest s will al so b e able to hav e a m e di c bath or h a ir wa sh Betwee n th e se a c tiviti es th ey are k e pt o cc upied by handi c r a ft s, gam es (mo stl y bingo) , bu t th eir chief d eli g
CLUES TO CROSSWORD No.6 (71) Compiled by W. A. Potter
ACROSS:
l. Paper bale for eyelids. (9) 9. Seventh cranial nerve (6) 10. Intravenous infusion. (4) 1l. Part of femur, humerus and scapula. (4) 12. What the doctor saw through the opthalmoscope. (6) 13. Parana sal sinuses most diseased with distorted ray. (9) 14. Count with pain in heart makes container for medicine (6) 19. A ship for an animal. (3) 2l. Development defect of the face. (4-3) 22. Newspapers or drug raising the blood-pressure. (7) 23. Bridge of disaster. (3) 25. British rock with goo d French anthropoid ape. (6) 29. Gland in the sella turccica of the spenoid bone. (9) JO. His mac hides crossing of fibres of optic nerve. (6) 32. Earnest desire of great extent. (4) 33. Irritating little workers. (4) 34 tissue connecting muscle to bone. (6) 35 After a short time, sapper and politician form nerve stimulating a gland. (9)
DOWN:
2 Tube inserted in pharynx to aid breathing of unconscious patient. (6) 3. Proteolytic enzyme with soft head and fracture.d spine. (6) 4. Badly mismanage a case. (6) 5. A mark of wound IS intestinal parasite. (7) 6. Specialised nerve tissue in wall (j)f right atrium initiates the heart-beat (4-5) 7. Military intelligence with Ulster car and skirt. (4) 8. Nothing left with workplace for cranial nerve (9) 15. Coverings for legs cut shoe (4) 16. White cell ingesting and destroying ba «: teria (4) 17. Larva by with , 26 Down. (4) 18 . Red eye of Indian warnors WIth hIgh temperature? (9) 19. Very suitable part of caption. (3) 20. Secret agent concealed in oedematous pylorus. 24 Attitude t.aken after mis-applied aid for over-weight phYSIque. (7) 26. Pam of peptic ulcer relieved by food. (6) 27. Artist lost in narrow stretch of sea. (6) 28. Duct beginning in the pelvis of the kidney (6) 3l. Scottish isle an old burial place. (4)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 5-71
ACROSS:
1. Liver; 4. Dilated; 8. Amnion; 9. ChilLi; 10. Titre; 11. Miosis ; 13. Rigors; 14. Ida; 15. At.tend.ed; 18. Tissue; 20. Dermis ; 21. Indicate; 23. Pad; 24. Th.rush; 26. Tender; 28. A.gape; 29. M.O.wing; 30. Porter; 31. Therapy; 32. Dress.
DOWN:
1. Lump in the throat; 2. Veins; 3. Rents; 4 Deltoid; 5. Lace.rated; 6. Th.in.g; 7. Delirium tremens; 12. In n; 16. El m; 17. Dysphagia ; 19. S.a.c ; 21. Ideally; 22. Ice ; 25. Urine; 26. Tepid ; 27. Nerve.
WEBSTER (Dept. SJ), 39, Grosvenor Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk (104)
BALL PENS, Diaries, N ote Pads, Keys, Fobs , Pencils, etc Gold-stamped
) Ltd. , 2a Handsworth Road, London N176DD. (93)
which was issued on March 23 1971 will be of interest to many readers:
THE SERVICE MEDAL OF THE ORDER
1. Introduction
The Lord Chancellor has recently given formal approval to a number of changes in the conditions for the award of the Service Medal of the Order which were recommended by the Chapter-Genera of the Order. The relevant Appendix IV of the Statutes will in due course be amended according y and re-published but in the meantime this General Memorandum sets out the revised cond it io n s (in so far as they affect St. J ohn Ambulance) governing the submission of recommendations in future and provides the necessary authority for this
2. Eligibility
The Service Medal of the Order may be awarded to:
(a) the Great Officers of the Order; the Executive Officers, Depu ty and Assi stant Executive Officers of the Order and its Establishments (b) Chairmen and Secretaries of St. John Councils. (c) Members of the Staff of the St. John Ophthalmic Hospital in Jerusalem. (d) The following Officers and Members of the St. John Ambulan ce Association and Brigade at home and overseas :(i) Headquarter s Officers appointed by the
3. Periods of qualifying service
United Kingdom
Priori es of South Africa, New Zealand, Canada and Australia and the Commandery in Central Afri ca Elsewhere overseas
4. Bars 15 year s 12 ye ars 10 years
Bars to the medal may be awarded for each additional five years of satisfactory service.
5. Aggregated service Service in one qualifying capacity may be added to service in any othe r qualifying capacity (provided they are not simultaneous) to make up the total period qualifying for the award of the medal or bar.
6. Submission of recommendations
Recommendations for the award of the medal accompanied by a full statement of the servi ce qualifying th erefore have to be made to the Lord Prior for the approval of the Grand Prior by the appropriate executive officer. Th e Chief Commander is the appropriate executive officer where recommendations fen service in respect of member s of St. John Ambulance are concerned.
All recomm endations f rom Coun ti es , haye , therefore, to be submitted to these Headquarters in the first instance and should be sent through the usual channel s in accordance with the relevant Association Instru ctions and Brigade Regulations. For convenience recommendations for Commanders St. John Ambulance may be included in Brigade lists.
7. Retrospective awards
It will be seen from para 2 above that several additional St. John Ambulance appointments hav e been included in the list of those eligible for the award of the Service Medal in future. Service in the se appointments may be counted retrospectively towards the award of the Service Medal and/or bars
8. Association Secretaries and Treasurers
Some clarification w ill be required of the appointments classified as 'Association Secretaries and Treasurers' in para. 2(d)(iv) above.
This category is intend e d to embrace Centre sec r etari es with in add ition certain other appointments on the Assoc iation side broadly in parallel with Brigade staff officers. It is not , however, feasible to define herein exactly which of these appointments give qualification for the Servi ce Medal since they cover a wide range of yarying degrees of service.
To avoid subsequent misunderstanding, therefore it will be ne cess ary for County Directors to refer each appointment in thi s category (other than Centre secretaries) to the Director-General for a decision on whether it is to be regarded as providing credit towards the aggregate qualifying period for th e award of the Medal.
During May the Chief Co mm and e r , Lt.-General Sir William Pike, gave a r e union supper party at St. John Ambulance headq u arters for the mem be rs of the SJ A teams comprised of mainly doctors and nur ses who worked in the South East and Mid-West States of Nigeria during the past year. Their primary task had been to reh abilit a t e some of the hospitals , particularly St. Margaret's Calabar (South East State) and St. Luke's Ozoro (Mid-West State). The member s of the team went out in r ela ys, eac h on three months contract. Major Idri s Williams , staff officer at headquarters , was in charge of the operation throughout this period except for a month's l eave i n August when the H on.
Georgina Stonor d a ughter of Lady Camoys , the county superintend e nt for Buckinghamshire , stood in for him. The teams also found time to help with training in f ir st -aid and nursing and the forma tio n of new SJA division s in the two States. They worked throughout in clo se co ll abo rati on with the St. John Council and the Federal and State Governments.
Although not all the members were ab le t o be present at t he reunion there was a nearly complete muster also present were representatives of the British High Commission in L agos, who were on leav e, and members of the Overseas Development Administration which paid the cost of the teams out of the British Government grant of £5 million for reconstruction in Nigeria
During the enjoya ble evening members of th e teams showed coloured slides and films illustrating t h eir work. Sir William Pike thanked them for their valuable work for Nigeria, which had e nhanced the reputation of the Order of St. John a nd don e much to foster relations betwe e n Nigeria and Britain.
were flying orange flags, indicating they were veterinary surgeons.
The first race was over hurdles. In hurdles the jumps are less formidable than in steeplechase but the race is consequently faster and falls are still to be expected from time to time. Today the going was very hard and a light fall of rain earlier had done no more than add a slithery superficial mud which made it more dangerous.
In two more Land Rovers at strategic points on the course were Dr. John Miles, chief medical officer, and another doctor. High in the stand at a point from which he could see the whole course , a third doctor was on watch and he was in communication with the other doctors by R/T. Each doctor was supported by an R /T operator. Each Land Rover flew a red flag with a white cross to identify them.
At each jump were at least two first-aiders. Under National Hunt rules, every jump must be manned and, before racing starts, course officials see that at each fence two flags and a stretcher are put ready . One flag is white and the first-aiders signal with it if they want an ambulance ; the other flag , white with a red cross, is used to call a doctor. The first-aiders take with them to their statio n a waterproof sheet and a blanket.
Several shillings poorer after the first race, I went back to the Jockeys Hospital. It used to be where the Spectators' Hospital is now, but the new accommodation adjoins the jockeys' changing room and is thus ideally situated. It consits of a duty room and a three-bed ward/treatment room. There is
by Jean Cullinan
Chelt€!nham racecourse at the foot of Cleeve Hill in the Cotswolds is probably the most beautifully situated course in England. The new Jockeys' Hospital has aroused widespread imterest A ll the raciflg there is under National Hunt rules (no racing) so the work of doctors and nurses is an important part of the organization behind a race meeting. 4
IT WAS AFTER half-past one on a Saturday afternoon in Tattersals at Cheltenham racecourse Just behind the stand, the Spectators' Hospital was milling with Red Cross and St. John Ambulance perso!l1nel reporting for duty and waiting to be assigne d to their posts Further along at the n ew Jo ckeys' Hospital, Kenneth Edington, SRN , QN, was opening up his cupboards, loading his sterilizer and generally getting ready for anything.
Soon, over in the parade ring, the horses running i n the first race were sta lking around. Th e favourite loo ked competent and rather complacent. The horse I had fancied looked fed up to its five-year-old teeth. At 2 o'clock they were off and Land Rovers were tearing about keeping up with the horses. They
also a mortuary. In the ward Mr. Edington, assisted by Mrs. Belinda Clarke, was expecting a casualty. A jockey had fallen and fractured his collarbone. The doctor found it was in a good position, so the jockey was able to go home with his arm in a St. John arm sling with instructions not to ride for the three weeks it would take to mend.
When a jockey falls, the first-aiders at the fence succour him and flag signal if they want a doctor and/or ambulance. Within the perimeter of the course is a trailer ambulance which will accommodate two stretcheFs and is towed by a Land Rover. On hard ground near the stand is a Red Cross and St. John ambulance.
If, after examining the casualty in the Jockeys' Hospital, the doctor decides treatment is called for, then the patient is taken to Cheltenham General Hospital by the county ambulance service. The Jockeys' Hospital can be forewarned of the arrival of a casualty by internal telephone from the doctor in the
stand who will have very likely seen what happened, and any case is in with the 'Land-Roving' doci0rs by R/T. Even more immediate is closed circuit television. This not only relieves the tedium of waiting for something to happen but also enables the nurses to see every fall as it happens.
After each race, Dr. Miles goes round the jockeys' changing room to satisfy himself that no one who has been hurt escapes medical attention. Jockeys want to go on riding and they regard concussion, broken ribs and clavicles with an insouciance that is awe-inspiring.
Spectators Have Their Hospital Round at the Spectators' Hospital they had had a quite afternoon so far and Sister Marlene Hawker, SRN, was snatching a belated lunch and preparing a list of requisitions for equipment. As its name implies, this establishment is for the public and they have coped with all the usual things that happen to people in a crowd - and some unusual ones as well. They haven't had a baby born there yet, though. Not suprisingly for a racecourse,
perhaps, heart attacks are not infrequent. Oth.er cases they have coped with i[Qclude asthmatic attacks, menorrhagia, acute retention, insulin reactions, down-and-outs looking for a bed, people witih troubles well over 24 hours old and one catastrophic outbreak of food poisoning.
All the SRNs and SENs, as well as the auxiliaries, at the race meeting are there in their capacity as members of the St. John Ambulance Brigade and the British Red Cross It is entirely voluntary and they work in their off-duty time by rot a, so everybody takes turns. Registered nurses get £2.50 out-of-pocket expenses and auxiliaries get £2. The staffing is one SRN and one assistant for the Jockeys Hospital and one SRN with two assistants for the Spectators' Hospital.
All the nurses we met showed an impressive indifference to the Sport of Kings itself. Their interest was entirely in their work as members of the British Red CFOSS and St John Ambulance who go wherever they are needed just because they are needed
(Reprinted from Nursing Times)
CONTINUOUS d eve lopm ent of racing cars and mot orcyc les has taken place at such a rate that top international drivers are now hurtling round the tricky, 1.35-mile Leicestershire's Mallory Park circ uit at an average lap speed of 115 mph whic h involves a maximum of more than 160 mph along Stebbe Straight.
And even though circ u it owners, rna nufa cturers, the sports governing bodies, and equ ipm ent suppliers all have a keen eye on the safety aspect there is ever the human error or unforeseen mechanical failure which ca n occur, resulting in a crash which can seriously injure a d river.
In these circumstances, the presence of people at the scene w ho are ab le to think and act quickly, keep calm a nd if necessary give emergency comfort and medical aid until the quick arrival of a doctor, cou ld m ean the difference between life and death for the casualty.
Providin g this vital, and yet completely voluntary, service at Mall ory and other circuits throughout the county are men and women of the St. John Ambulance, who are 'on th e staff' of the medi ca l officers of the race meeting.
At h e Leicestershire track the first-aid facility is a local one, the volunteers b eing from J L. King (Leicester), Barwe ll , Loughborough and Coalville Divisions. (See p hoto Around and About).
There are normally 28 people in their party, two men working alongsid e flag marshals at each of seven strategically sited posts out on the track, and a relief party, including the staffing of the medical ce ntre and ambulance drivers , alway s in readiness to drive a ny of the three vehicles present to the sce ne of an accident.
Normal leaders of the team are Superintendent Mick Mardon and Divisional Offi cer Helmut Linduschka both of J. L. King Division.
Th e circuit medical centre, which is under the co ntrol of the doctor, consists of two rooms, one for reception and the other for adm inist ering trea tme nt
There is a complete resuscitation equipment, including oxygen, a resuscitator and suction equipment.
Minor surgery such as stitch ing of wounds ca n be carried out there, and the ce ntre also con tains sets of suitable dressing s and diagnos t ic instruments - all provided by the circuit owners.
On major race d ays, there may be crowds of say 50 , 000 and an additional first-aid centre in the form of a mobile unit is situated n ear the larg e crowd areas on the o utside of the tra ck.
'We h ave to deal with injuries ranging from minor abrasions to fatalities a nd ha ve also been call ed to acc idents on roads outside the circu it on bu sy race d ays,' says Di visiona l Officer Linduschka. In addition there are the more domestic ailm ents such as asthma attacks and wasp stings to treat.
Prompt action is vital when dealing with accidents. Each St. John man on the track has a Guedel airway, for use where an 'injured person cannot breathe properly There is always a good telephone link between them and the medical centre.
Modern motor cycle ra cing clothing is pretty tough, but it quickly wears through when a ri der slides along the tarmac after a high speed tumble, and this res ults in painful friction burns req uir i ng a ttention.
Superintendent Mardon with a numb e r
of years' ex perience at the circuit, says that serious accidents to motor cyclists usually occur through the machine tangling with the rider after he has fallen from it.
Shock is a condition which frequently happens to a driver or rider after an accident , who is generalJy worried about the state of his machinery rather than his injuries , and has to be reassured in this aspect.
Although accidents occur more usually a mong less experienced competitors Graham Hill, Phil Read and the late Bill Ivy are among stars who have required assistance from the Mallory medical staff. Why do young people risk their lives in quest for thrills which speed provides?
The St. John volunteers, who are great fans of the sport, will tell you that it is just part of the life of young people concerned.
Because p articipation in these sports is usu a lly for younger men and women, chances of recovery in quite serious injury is better than normal because of their excellent physical and mental condition.
Incidentally , there is close liaison with police and if the doctor decides that hospital treatment is necessary , a police escort is on hand for more urgent cases on the 20 minute journey to Leicester Royal Infirmary.
Drivers and riders are most grateful to their St. John Ambulance Brigade friends for the help provided.
And Dr. Der ek Atherley, of Desford , Chief Medical Officer at the circuit, acknowledges the great value of his assistants to him: 'T hey do an excellent job of work in first-aid'.
(R epri nted from Leicester Mercury).
7
Many readers will perhaps kn(')w that Lady Brecknock has in recent months been conducting a pilot-scheme in Hampshire on a Short Course for Householders - the subject matter for this is contained in the leaflet 'Simple Hints on Nursing and First-Aid in the Home'.
The pilot-scheme has ccmfirmed public interest in the course and provided valuable information and experience that will assist in introducing it to the country as a whole. The Chief Commander has, therefore, asked Lady Brecknock to undertake this on a national basis and to this end she has agreed to act as 'Personal Adviser to the Chief Commander on Short Courses for HouseholdeIs'.
It is the intention that nursing channels should be used for routine and administra tive corres pond ence in connection with these courses.
Nursing Cadet Leader Ginette Ewens of Shaftesbury Division, I hear, is just back from Malta where she spent just over 3 years with the Sliema Nursing/Ambulance Cadet Division While there she was awarded the Grand Prior's badge and the presentation was made by the Governor-General Sir Maurice Dorman, the President of the S1. John Council, during the Annual General Meeting of the St. John Ambulance which was held at the Magisterial palace of the Grand Masters in Valletta, in the presence of a large gathering of prominent persons including ambassadors, who together with Sir Maurice and Lady Dorman, very kindly signed her autograph book.
Ginette has the very happy distinction of being the first ever English cadet to be trained and awarded the Grand Prior's
Headquarters: Lady Brecknock to be personal adviser to Chief Commander on Short Courses for Householders.
Uganda: Mr. E. W. Oryema resigned as Commissioner
India: Shrimati Padmaja Naidu appointed Chairman of Association, vice Shri K. K. Shah
Derbyshire: Colonel Peter Hilton, Deputy Commissioner, Dr. R. Latham Brown, Deputy County Director, Colonel S. A. Bower, County Surgeon, Dr. 1. Freeman, Commissioner Southern Area.
Surrey: Surgeon Lt.-Comd. P. Roylance, County Surgeon.
Warwickshire: Dr. D. Hendry, Deputy Commissioner, Dr. MacBain, County Surgeon
Norfolk: Mr. 1. E. Fisher, Commissioner N.E. Area.
Yorks, East Riding: Mr. H. M. Gentry, Commissioner.
badge in Malta, and the unique honour of having it presented to her at the old Palace of the Grand Masters of the Order.
She was extremely popular in St. John Malta circles, I hear, and a special farewell camp and presentation was held for her, and her father, who is also a Brigade
Ewens recently retu rned from Malta member. During the Malta Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 1969 Ginette was attached to Headquarters and in appreciation of her good services she wa s presented with a Jubilee Medallion by th e Commissioner ; she was also acting as corps secretary for the last eight months of her stay in Malta in order to train for her 'clerical ability' proficiency badge and to help in the corps administration .
MALTA BOOKLET
I hear that the booklet being produced by County Staff Officer L. Ashmore of Nottinghamshire on the diamond jubile e celebrations held in Malta has regretta bl y
been h eld up due to diffi c ulties in publishing. Also this was not helped by the post al strike.
The booklet, now in print , should be available by early July and all members who have ordered copies will receive them as soon as they are ready.
Further copies can be obtained from Area Staff Officer W. F. Shaw, 40 Furlong Avenue, Arnold , Nottingham , NG5 7 AP at a cost of 23p per copy including postage. This price is slightly higher than announ ced earlier but with rising costs this is inevitable. The book should be most enjoyable , espe cially to those who took part in the celebrations.
The following was divisional officer W. Exmouth:
received from E. Street of
I had return e d to my seat having introduced the c hairman for a special meeting of ambulance drivers when suddenly things changed and I found myself staring at the ceiling of a Exmouth hospital ward and a pretty young nurse looking down at me was saying: 'Don't worry. You'll be all right.'
Surely it can t be true I say to myself as I've n ever been in hospital as a patient ; in fact I've rarely been ill for more than a
day. But it is true , and when the doctor arrives he says I've had a heart attack and will be in bed for at least a month.
For a chap like me, who's always been very active, this was a blow and I felt very miserable. But soon I was to see the patient's view of nurses, and, on reflection, how near angels they are
They dash around doing everything they can for their patients, and are at the bedside the instant you ring the bell, be it day or night.
I understand there is a shortage of nurses in British hospitals, but this does not appear to be so here, although I think many of them must be part-time, for they seem to be continually changing and many new faces appear at the bedside.
I soon learned that there is no time
be gloomy in hospital, as apart from the fact that there is always someone more ill than you are, there is a routine to be followed.
Awaken at 6 am, your bed is remade and backrest fixed, washing water is brought in to those who must remain in bed, and a cup of tea follows. Then the morning papers are brought in and a new staff takes over.
Soon a big breakfast arrives, except for those of course who are on a diet, which I am. The doctor says I am 2V2 stones over weight. So there's no big breakfast for me, alas. Perhaps I eat too much at home. Next, into the ward come two young nurses who say I'll get sore parts unless I allow them to rub me with some lotion. Embarrassed , I tell them I'll be all rightnot to worry. But no, over I am rolled by the joking youngsters, who soon make me feel at ease.
Then cups of coffee and the morning mail are brought around, and soon everything in the ward is being cleaned and polished. Another nurse appears with pills and medicine for those in need. The doctors on their rounds are the next to appear, when each patient is checked In no time lunch is being served and a nurse is saying she s sorry but that's all I'm allowed to have. Never mind. I have plenty of fruit brought into me. It seems I can eat as much fruit as I like. Hooray. With lunch over , the bed is tidied ready for visiting hours And so the day goes on until lights are dimmed.
Some days local SJ A nurses come into the ward to lend a hand They and the whole atmosphere of the ward and the nurses, make one feel proud to belong to a n organisation which is part 9
Wrestler Ian Campbell, who is area vice-president for ambulance cadets, congratulates Alwoodley (Leeds) ambu ance cadets' first-aid team for winning three trophies at the E ast Midland area competitions (
Yorkshire Post) of something which is really worthwhile. Already I am feeling much better.
The sleepy Norfolk town of Fakenham , they tell me, hasn't seen a passenger train in years. But on Sunday May 16 a train crash was simulated at the disused Fakenham Railway Station by the local SJA. The aim of the exercise - codenamed 'Exercise Lion' was to test the Brigade's ability to give first-aid treatment to casualties in a major
Three old railway carriages, with wrecked interiors and smashed windows, were aligned by the platform and filled with 150 'casualties' These
casualties were lo ca l youngsters from various youth organisations who had been made up to simulate a variety of injuries from minor cuts to severed limbs and fractured spines
The exercise started with tel ephone calls to the Area Leaders of the Central North, Central South, a nd West Areas of Norfolk at 11.00 am giving the lo cation and the approximate scale of the inciden t In the interests of re a lism the exact timing and location of the exercise had not been issued to Brigade members beforehand - merely the date when it would take place.
First assistance arrived on the scene at about ten minut es past eleven, a nd shortly afterwards an emergency medical
post had been set up at t he station yard. As alflll bulances arrived from parts of the co unty the 'injured' we re taken by a shuttle service to an emergency hospital which was set up at Fakenham's Health Centre, 600 yards away.
Altogether abo ut 3 00 members of divisions in the three western area of Norfolk took part in t he exercise , and from the spee d with which they arrived on the scene gave first-aid and evacuated the casualties, it must certainly be judged to hav e been a success.
A SJA necklace for
Many a long-time first-aider acquires a medallion and a whole str ing of labe l bars. What to do with them is a problem to some, it seems. As often as not they lie forgotten in a draw e r or box.
But one ve te ran, I hear , had a brain wave. H e h a d his m e dallion and bars gilded and strung together in a neckl ace for hi s wife. She was delighted and now proudly wears her SJ A n ecklace.
He is Don Pye , of SJ A British Co lumbia , who has a record of first-aid achievement stretching back 30 years in Cana da.
SJA British Co lum bia , who sent me the id ea, hop e Briti sh members are not shocked! Irr everence?
A BOX STORY
During Whit Week the Roman Catholi c and Anglican churc h es of Manchester hold their annual Procession of Witn ess through the city centre. This always a ttr acts large crow d s to watch th e co lourful spectacle which takes several hours to pass.
The division s within the Manchester and Salford No.8 Area are on duty along the route. Stations, which are set up at various points arra nged be foreha nd , are usually in the doorways of larg e shops a nd stores which are of course closed.
After 'setting up shop' the next pro blem is to find some temporary seating accommodation for possib le casualties and this is usually solved by borrowing c hairs from helpful cafe proprietors in the vic inity.
On one such occasion a correspondent's div isio n having instal1ed its stabon discovered there were no cafes
Simulated railway crash at Fakenham, Norfolk See TRAINS AGAIN AT Pho to: J Garner)
handed ove r to the Commissioner, Dr O. P Eamond s, by Dr. Michae Win sta nley former MP and well·known TV broadcaster on first -aid (Phot o: Manchester Evening News)
in the area to req uest chairs But one of the nursing members (naturally improvisati on-minded) suggested that wooden boxes would suffice. The other members agreed but still they had to find wooden boxes. Two ambulancemen said they knew j ust the place and d.irected the nurse to a nearby building , accompanying her as she made enq uirie s. A pleasant gentleman listened attentive l y to her request and then quietly said 'There ' re plenty in the cellar'.
The nurse went hurriedly down into the dim ly lit ce llar , and there they were: rows and rows of wood e n boxes of all sizes, highl y polished and co mpl ete with b:r:ass handles Our correspondent doesn't say whether or not they disguised h e 'boxes' in any way when they set them up on their sta tion.
Two guide books for the disabled coveri ng Sussex and Dorset have rece ntly be co me available from Hur stwood Pres s, Catsfield Battle, Sussex, price 40p each These profuse ly illustrated , well produced book s are guides to easy access sightseeing throughout the counties, and include ancie n t c hur ches, historic houses, castles, parks and gardens, Roman villas, natur e reserves and other pla ces of int erest and beauty.
The h eights of steps , slope of approach ramp s, accessibility for wheelchairs , etc , to these places of interest are included, and should be a great help to those planning outings for disabled people.
The editors and the publishers are to be congratulated for their efforts in produ ci ng these books.
A Council of the Orde r of St John is being established for Greater London.
As will be known, for many ye ars the poli cy of the Order ha s been to decentralise its local functions to Councils, which are as it were the embodiment of the Order in the different areas concerned. At the present time these areas are the Counties - as convenient administrative units - and almost all the Counties now have such Councils charged with the co-ordination of all Order work, including therefore the Association , Brigade and other St. John interests.
London has widespread involvement in Association work, particularly in the !il.ationalised industries , and has the la rgest unit of the Birga de in the country (well Over 10,000 members) but h as so far been without a Council. The reason for this has been because the London Headquart ers was literally on the Order's
door-step at the Gate.
But since the headquarters was moved to Weymouth Street , W.l , time has shown that London should have its own voice and Council privileges in the same way as any other County, and thus, for instance, be able to have its say on such occasions as the highly successful meeting of chairmen of Councils which took place last year.
It is also in creasingly important with the amalgamation of Association and Brigade to have a body devoted specifically to encouraging the spread of first-aid instruction, the stimulation of Brig ade recruitment and operations, and the raising of funds. The purpose of St. John Councils is to hold a balance between the needs which may arise from these activities, and from oth er work of th e Order such as the hospital in J erusaiem, operation of oint com mittees with the British Red Cross Society , and
other Order interests
The new Council has a membership spread through all fields of the London scene, and includes representation from the City , the Greater London Council industry, and so on. In accordance with the rules for Councils, about half the Council is made up of members of the Order and there is also a balanced membership from Association and Briga de.
It is also a considerable encouragement that the Lord Lieutenant for Greater London, Field Marshal S.ir Gerald Templer KG , has accepted the Presidency of Council, and that the Lord Mayor of London a nd the Chairman of the Greater London Council have agreed to be ex-officio vice-presidents.
The first meeting of the new Council is due to be on June 22 19 7 1, thus bringing the Council into being by this year's St. John's Day
The Chief Commander and Wing - Cdr. Tom Fazan, Chief Staff Off ice r, are shown contents of motor cycle f rst -aid kit by members o f Johannite r - Unfall-Hilfe, the equivalent of our Brigade
GERMANY'S EQUIVALENT OF OUR ORDER AND SJA
by Sir William Pike, ChiejCommander
superin tendents (nursing) at regional lev et The organisation was starte d separately f rom the J.U.H. and this has generally been considered a mistake. Some co-or d ination with the J. U.H. is, however, now provided by the chief executive of the J .U .H. having been now appointed chief commissioner for this branch.
The J.O. has a good modern building for it s headquarters in Bonn, with a large flat for the chancellor and his family. I was surprised at the co m parative ly sma ll size of the headquarters and, indeed, I think they are finding it too sm all. On one flank is one of their nurse s' training schools and , on the other, one of the eig h t J.O. hospitals. Before the war, the J .O. had fifty hospitals but most of these and a great proportion of their porperty have been lost to East Germany, including their headq uarters at Sonneburg and all the treasur es accumu lated over the centuries.
Johanniter - Lhfall-Hilfe (J.U.H.l
The J .U.H. is organised into eight r egions co rr espon ding to Lands or combined Lands. It has a Board of Directors, with a president , vice-president treasurer , surgeon-in-chief and secretary-general, most of whom are e ected. Each region has a commissioner in charge assiste d by a salaried executive officer and some salaried clerical assistants Wom en are integrated and , indeed , some of the commissioners are female but there is no nur sing bran ch as this is all und er the S.H.A. Before the war , there was n o J.U H . and this was started by so me British Army officers in 1951/1952 in the Hannover district.
The president of the 1. U.H. a nd commissioner of the J.U.H. i n the N. Rhine Westphal en Region is Peter Graf zu B entheim- Teck l enburg -R heda, whose family h as had connections with the J.O. for m any cent uries. He recen tly had a h ea rt attack from overwork and everyone hop es that h e will take things a little mor e stea dily , as h e is greatly lov ed and adm ir ed
RECENTLY I was invited by Brigadier General Zawadsky (chief executive) to visit the headquarters of the J ohanniterorden in Bonn and some of the units of the Johanniter-lhfall-Hilfe in the Dusseldorf and Cologne areas. The former is the equivalent of the Order of St. John and the latter of the St. John Ambulance Brigade.
JOHANNITERORbEN (J.O.)
The J.O. has a Herrenmeister (Prince Wilhelm Karl V01'l Pruessen) and a Chapter. It includes Protestant French, Swiss, Hungarian and Finnish members and a close relatiomship with the Dutch and Swedes. These have long been associated with the J. O as distinct from the Malteser Hilfsdienst (M.H.) which is the old Roman Catholic branch. The division into these two branches preceded the Reformation by some 200 years and the split was caused by the Western Knights going off to fight ti n the MetilitelITanealil whilst the Eastern Kn ighJJts had to look after the Eastern frontiers.
bigger and stronger than both but the J.O. get on very well with them.
The J.O. is organised into Commanderies and Sub-Command eries.
Its 'Foundations' are the J.U.H ., the S.H.A. (Schwestern Helferin Ausberg) or Nursing Branch , eight hospitals, a number of old people' s homes, a boarding school and various other charitable p roje cts.
The M.H. is based on their Roman Catholic dioceses and does much the same as the J.O., so they try to avoid competing. The Red Cross in Germany is
The S.H A. has a 'Nursing Chief' an d trains auxiliary nurses at considerable expense (including some boarding) , though helped fin a ncially by the Government. It has commissioners and the equivalent of our county
The other senior volunt ary office rs in thi s region a r e mo stly ex-wartime soldiers or sailors but now business men and all speak good Eng li sh The salaried administrator is also an ex-wartime officer. There is little doubt that this Region is very well organised and run It is also, I su ppose, in the richest part of Germany and ce rtainly seems to lack nothing for its material needs.
The ma i n unit s of the J U.H that I visited were as follows:
Mobile First-Aid Posts
I saw several mobil e first- aid posts whose maim duties we re in connection with the au tobahns and other road accidents. They each had a su b stantia l and well equipped building with full communications, including radio to police , fire and hospitals. They had a
larg e am bulan ce provided by the Stat e, a smaller ambulance belonging to the J.O., and an ambulan c e car which co uld take two stretcher cases. These ambulances are well equipped and are all on r a dio Th ey do full-time week-end duty and from 6.00 lO.OO on the evenings of week-days. Th e men a nd women who man these stations and ambul a nces seemed all to be young, a nd they often included one or two f ull-time young men who had r efused to do co mbatant Milit ary Service. They h ad , therefore, been drafted for 18 months to th e J.U H. and were paid b y the Government. Th ey were all exce ll en t young m en doing an invaluable job.
I und ers t a nd that there is little in the way of a ho sp ital or regional a mbul a nce service a nd that this requirement was provided by voluntary bodies , the amount of coverage varying from place to place. I believ e that the F ederal Government is ca lling a m ee ting in late June of all the age nci es engaged in am b ula n ce work to di sc u ss future re s pon sibiliti es. It i s conceivable t hat the J.U.H. will hav e co nsiderably increased responsibilities with Government financial support. In the Dusseldorf and Cologn e areas there is no doubt that the J.U.H. are now doing a m ag nifice nt job and they get a tremendous amo unt of first -ai d pra ctice on both major a nd 13
minor accidents. As a result, there is no shortage of young people coming forward as volunteers and I must say I was very jealous of this invaluable training and incentive, which we used to have but have now lost to the county ambulance services.
These J. U H. units have officer ranks and a smart khaki uniform but they also have long white coats with the St John Star for their op€rational work. Their medical equipment is very good indegd and it was interesting to see that they still teach the use of torniquets and pressure points.
C ivi l Defence
I saw one of their civil defence training stations, most of which seem to be manned by voluntary bodies. The one I saw was manned by the LU.H, though the equipment is all provided and looked after by the Government. The men and womefl, again, all appeared to be young, and they were trained for su ch things as manning first -aid posts, large scale cooking, water purification and power supply. These units are ready to be sent on any national disaster, as well as for their wartime civil defence d\!lties.
D isaste r Un it
There are also a number of disaster units in the country where, again, the 14
Other points of interest
The statutory J .U.H. ftiJrst-aid course is for eight 2 -h our periods (twelve 2-ho ur periods for advanced standard). There are lay instructors to help the d actors and these have to do a 'Methods of Instruction' course.
The Government pay 12 marks a head for all who pass a proper first-aid course.
This includes school children over a certain minimum age, industry and me ill b er s of the volunta ry bodies themselves. This certainly h elps to finance the]. V.H.
All motorists wanting a licence have now to pass a short course in first-aid, for which they pay 10 marks (three 2-hour periods). These are run by the voluntary bodies and again, they get the money which helps them financially. It ha s been a great effort but they have managed to co mpe te.
The J. U .H ran some 3,000 standard courses last year for 60,000 students. They did lOO ,OOO short courses for motorists (the Red Cross do even more).
The r .U.H. hav e about 200 ambulances on duty for road accidents at week-ends , with abo ut 4 ,500 active helpers.
There is no Association as such a nd aJJ training is covered by the r.U.H. I was told there were no cadets but tha t they were starting a cadet movement.
However, certainly saw some boys and girls dres sed up in r. V.H. uniform in the Dusseldorf area and assume, therefore that they have indeed started a cadet movem ent.
equipment is provided by the Government but the personnel by voluntary bodies. These units are for helping overseas countries when disaster occur. This particular one is manned by the J U H. and they sent both personn el and equipment recently to r ordan and East Pakistan, including a full field hospital for the latter. They have about 50 people available on call They have extensive equipment and stores ready at short notice for an overseas disaster. These units also provide first -aid for road accidents and they do much transportation of patients b e tween home and hospital , blood bank and 'organ transplant' duties. This was a mo st efficiently organ ise d place and a useful centre for training.
Leader sh ip Training
The last thing I saw was a class of 30 young men being trained in leadership. These young men were, I think, all platoon commanders in the J.U.H. and they were doing a sand-model type exercise on a manor road accident. The course was organised by an ex-army major and there seemed to be great keenness to learn These courses are all on a week-end basis and run at some suitable youth hostel.
The Government pay for the auxiliary nurses' training, as nurses are in very short supply in Germany in spite of being well paid.
Most of the finance is co ntr olled from J.U.H. Headquarters in Bonn but regions and groups are allow ed to sp lit the money from motorists.
Rel ations with the Red Cross and Workers A.S B. are very good (the latter also trains in first-aid).
Gen e ral Conclusions
I was struck by the great pride of the r.o. and the J.U .H. in our common history and of the keen desire to get as close as possibl e to their co n fre res in t h is country. There has already been an interchange of young people between our units and I am as anxious as are the 1.U.H. to extend this. This year two parties of young people will again be invited for a free holiday with members of the r U H. a t Sylt. I would very much like to return their hospitality next year by organising a si milar camp somewhere in this country.
I can only say that my welcome could not have be en warm er , nor co uld I possibly have been treated mor e kindly or more hospitably. I feel there is a great future for co-operation b etwee n our two 'Tongues' a nd I intend to do all ! ca n to further it. I do hope that other people with the opportunity will do the same.
by K. P. Goldman
The Chest and Heart Assoc. Tavistock House North, Tavistock Sq Londo n, WCIH 9JE. (90p)
This book represents a courageous attempt to present chest function and illness to the layman. It deserves to succeed and your reviewer thinks it does so. In the ho pe it will merit a further edition and in the belief that a reviewer has the privilege of carping there are some ways in which it might be improved.
Technical words puzzling to the layman still creep in - sternum (breast bone) and phrases such as 'Tension of C02' and 'oxygen sat u ration' - which may have littl e meaning to some lay-readers. On page 15, 'Vagus nerres' shou ld be singular. On page 32, surely the worst ch est pain of all is that of a myocardial infarction , which is not m e ntioned. On page 41 the role of the sinuses in voice resonance is ignored, as is the value of bed rest in the treatment of si nu sitis on the next page. But the sound common sense of th e discussion 'catching cold' on page 49 is exce ll ent. The tab Ie on page 129 could be misleading in that taking pneumoconiosis as an examp le , deaths have risen since 1947, and by 1967 were declining in number year by year.
But these are relatively minor points and do not detract materially from a book whi c h can be read with interest and profit.
There is no index.
R. McL. Archibald, MB ChB, DIH.
A TEXTBOOK OF MEDICAL CONDITIONS FOR PHYSIOTHERAPISTS
by Joan E. Cash Faber (£ 1. 75)
This is the fourth edition of a book which has also been reprinted on five occasions since it first appeared i n 1951, which is a measure of its popularity It is well produced and does not su ffer noti ceably from the defects of multiple authorship. The illu strations are adequate and th ere is a short index.
A reviewer naturally examines his subject critica lly and the re are a number of controversi a l stateme!l1ts to be found. The classification of rheumatic diseases (p. 37) and the de finitio n of fibrositis (p. 77) would not command universal acceptance . Similarly, the definition of chronic bronchitis (p. 114) makes no
and pupils for fur th e r study. The bibliography and references are of great value. The new addenda on the fundementals of mental health and on management will be of value to all grades of staff - Salmonized or not.
LIFTING PATIENTS IN THE HOME (10p)
mention of cough a nd spit (see MRC standard description) and in this section no mention is made of occupational preliminary disease. On p. 2 05 , mention is made of five groups of muscular atrophies but only four are listed. These are all relatively minor points.
The last chapter on the Management of Physical Disability is full of sound common sense, but omits to men tion the latest legislation on the disabled or the incorporation of social security department s in local authorities. And why, oh why, is the role of the industrial medical off icer in rehabilitation ignored?
Your reviewer can recommend this book with confidence to all students and p ra ctising p h ysiothera pist s R.M.A.
NURSING RETARDED THE MENTALLY
by John Gibson and Thomas French Faber Paper back SSp
This is a useful little book written for nurses in training. I can recommend it to Brigade nursing members who ma y find themselves in this field of work.
NURSING IN DEPTH SERIES
General editor W. E. Broome, SRN, QN, RNT
Butterworth Paper backs 4Sp each Pr essure Sores, Prevention and Treatment by Keith A. Walker. Written for nurses and nurs es in training caring for patients in hospitals, many of the preventive methods discussed may be of inte rest to those nur sing a member of the fami l y at home.
Nursing the In continent by Eric Edmondson gives a most understanding and thoughful considerat ion to this dreadful affliction. Many useful ideas are given on how to h elp care for a patient in this situatio n A useful book
Dre ssi ng Techniques by W E. Broome is written for nurses in training. Brigade nursing members could benefit by using it for furth er reading in conj unction with ch apter 8 of the nursing m a nu a l.
NURSING TECHNICAL
MANUAL, 1970/71
by W. E. Broome, SRN QN, RNT
Butterworth £1.80
An extremely us eful book to add to the word boo ks of reference. It is of particular value to those trained nur ses who return to hospital service aft er being out of it for some time.
The text is clea r the diagrams good , and it will act as a stimulus to students
LIFTING PATIENTS IN HOSPITAL (8p)
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, 14 Bedford Row, London
4ED Thes e two l eaflets are suggested for further reading with cha pter 2 of the nursing manual. Those responsible for nursing patients, especially at
are advised to have a copy of each, as they demonstr a te lifting in detail.
from Malcolm Stewart, ambulance member
The last few months have been a very busy time for first-aid competitions and it is regretable to find that despite the various regulations and hints concerning these contests, judges still require 'com petition patter' from teams. Marks are being allocated for 'co lour of face', and other obvious signs. It is most distressing to tind that marks have not been awarded for signs despite the fact that the injuries have been correctly diagno sed and treated. (In one test, a judge put on a marking sheet: 'Learn some competition patter!')
think it would be beneficial to everybody if judges read 'First Aid Competitions and Casualty Make-up' , which is available from SJA.
My second comment concerns ju dges actually talking to competitors after the t est. Far too often teams finish and are not told what they did wrong; this may be excusable in adult tests but surely our cadets ought to be told, especially if their tests are not going to be returned , as was found at one competition, Competitions, obviously, playa very important part in the training of personnel and therefore they should be conducted in the most efficient manner.
My third comment involves the use of uniform in tests, General Regulations state speGifically that uniforms must not be used, yet some ambulance teams have been using their own personal kits (I might add that these kits were 'over-kitted'.)
Another point arising is the use of haversacks by cadet teams Haversacks as such are used infrequently by the majority of adults, let alone cadets. Would it not be better for cadets to use kits based upon the materials they are likely to have available, ie: 8 triangles, 4 No 7s , 8s and 9s?
Fourthly, cadet treatment should be based upon the Essentials of First Aid, not the adult book. There are a number of discrepancies between the two books and these should not be reflected in the marking sheets.
My final remark concerns the actual judging of diagnosis The judge should ask fgr the final diagnosis of the team. I have observed tests where the diagnosis was given over the telephone (which wasn't connected) by the No.4 , half way through the test.
Fortunately all these points were not observed in our competition , but have been observed over the 'competition season'.
If these points were improved, competitions would increase their usefulness and even more people would benefit Wantage, Berks. Malcolm Stewart
CHAT AT COMPS
from Ann Spencer '
As innocents abroad in the world of first-aid competitions we are urgently in need of advice.
Our team trained iFl the belief that the judge could only be asked two questions ie. regarding the pul se and the pupils We were therefore staggered at a recent competition to hear the leader of one team keep up an endless running commentary plus a barrage of questions which were all most helpfully answered by the judge
Here is a small sample:
Q: Do I see any further danger?
A : No
Q: Is the casualty breathing?
A: Yes; shallow and regular.
Q: Is the bleeding co ntrolled?
A: Yes, that's all right.
Q: Do I have a bystand er?
A: No, but there is a neighbour.
Then upon finding tablets in a handbag:
Q : I note some tablets What are they for? Should the cas u a lty have one?
A: It is immaterial.
Now, as this team won the competition we are left with the assum pti on that consultation with the judge is required. A nd yet
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor , although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations Although readers may sign published letters with a pen -name, writers must supply their name and address to the ed i tor.
from which it is suggested th at, re (A) the weakness is aggravated by the unne cessar y tight fit of the lungs on to this wind pipe and it is advisable to reduce the diameter of the latter by the careful application of a fine file or a strip of emery cloth (In fact, if replacement lungs are bought , one will probably have to do this anyway; I found, with our l a test replacement, that the fit was what used to be called i n engineering an interference fit) An easy sliding fit is all that is necessary and even if it were slacker than this a smear of vaseline would suffice to achieve the degree of air-tightness necessary.
I was , however, puzzled by the sketch map. There may b e two villages called Bethany, but can only find one. This one is ne a r Jerusalem, and on this side of the River Jordan. Mention was also made of obtaining St. John 's right hand, or else of purchasing his left hand. Here in Lancashire we are appealing for funds Many have learned of St John as one who introduced disciples to Jesus , and then left them with Him We have the privilege of applying first-aid to the needy and then introducing them to the doctors Lanes. M. Nelson
at a previous competition we seem to remember when asking 'Is bleeding controlled?' we had our h eads snapped off with a curt: 'As you find it. I'm not here.'
So what is required? If endless c hat of this nature is the order of the day would somebody please tell us and if this kind of thing is not wanted then would somebody please tell th e judges.
Bury St Edmunds A nn Spencer
from N. Sandall, ambulance member
After reading 'F irst-aid Kits ' in May R eview I am in complete agreement with Mr. Rock e ll that these 'o ut of date' first-aid kits should be replaced by one that is more pr a ctical.
While on the subj ect of first- ai d kits, I would like to see the plastic wallet now issued by stores carried in the tunic pocket , and the same with the new small water bottl e; and the white haversack withdrawn from the uniform as it only gets in the way when treating a casualty - have you tried keeping it on yo ur shoulder when in summer uniform!
Carryon the good work we are getting in the Review.
Wendover Division N. Sandall
from E. J. Baker
The article in April's Review on Maintenance of Resusci-anne is of great interest to all divisions and one ca nnot find much to di sagree with or wish to add except to stress that the likeliest defects a re:
(A) A split in what the article calls the windpipe (the stu b projecting from the shou ld er piece),
(B) Leaks in the body.
Co nsiderable experience (and m a ny rep a ir jobs) dictates that every means must be taken to avo id rough handlin g or force,
R e (B), it is essential to avoid all ungentle treatment of the body so would say the advice given under 'CLEANING', viz 'First remove the track suit top .' is ill-advised since it involves pulli.ng the arms out of the track suit top with danger of tearing the body at the armpits (Of course, at least partial-deflation of the body is the first step - whether you take the track suit off or not). Also , it is easier to remove head and shoulders in one piece; opening the track suit by the shoulder zipps is quite sufficient once the lungs hav e been disconnected and this prevents any tugging or pulling to the body. Head and shoulders are then easily separated by holding the shoulders between the knees and t wisting the head through 18 0 0 It is further suggested that , before use, the instructor should check that the metal band supporting the lungs and 'heart-air-sac' is fairly in position; if it is as ant the strap holding the lungs will b e torn a nd almost certainly, the wind pipe will be deflected considerably and probably broken; that it is advisable to pack away in th e suit-case with a small amount of air in the body (I pull the plug out and stow the model whilst it is defla ting),watch particu larly the part of the body over the bits-and-pieces locker; that the model is never lift ed by one arm or l egespecially when deflated; that a notice be applied to the head-box fo rbidding the use by any over-enthusiastic demonstrator , of Sylvesters Method ; that it is as well not to pump up th e body too hard - laid on a table with the legs projecting from the knees down over the edge, if the legs do not droop - that's hard enough; that if you do have t o replace the body , don't throw away th e discarded body as it will serve for many years to provide patch es to repair the body the inner side of the lung s a nd the lung-att ac hm ent strap.
Bath E. J. Bak er
from K. Burgess , corp s staff officer
The first principle of first-aid is to susta n life, and this is achieved by many members of the public by giving their blood to the National Blood Transfusion Service. After giving the donations they are awarded a badge as a token of appreciation. This ba dg e is not worn with uniform , but I fee l that t h e SJ A should inaugurate their own badge to be worn on uniform as a reward to members. This may help to encourage more donors. Many m e mbers will say we alr eady h a ve eno ugh badges. There may be many in Dress R eg ul ations but no one memb e r can wear them all. We all know how to recognise SRNs SENs, etc, but what of the Army trained nurse? This is the same sy ll ab us as for SRNs and the course is as long. Th e re must b e m any members who have obtained thi s qualification but who are not recognised by the SJA I feel they could be of value to divisions who don't have nursing officers and shou ld be invited to nursing officers Conferences. I onc e heard th e remark 'Th e General Nursing Council wouldn't allow us to issue a metal bar '. I say the GNC does not dictate to the SJA w h at to wear, therefor e at least l et them wear a Green Bar.
Wakefield , Yorks K. Burgess
from Rev. M. Nelson, president, Heywood Division
I look forward to the Review, and find in it much of int erest. As a c ergyman I was a ttracted to the May article on St. J ohn the Baptist. On e is a lw ays h a ppy to learn more about him, and for this I am gratefu l to Mr. H err ing.
NURSING
from Werrinton nursing cadets
We of Werrington Nursing Cad et Division were interested in the article on nursing cadets' uniform in the Review and although we thought the uniform shown had some advantages, we decided that it was not really modern enough and we've come up with our own ideas (see sketch).
Our idea of a new uniform is black flaired slacks, which are much more practical than skirts. When we recently entered a competition it was noted that the spectators eyes were not always on the casualty. We would have a white shirt-type blouse with a black cravat and waistband. Instead of a county badge we would have our own separate divisional badge. We hope you lik e our suggestions.
Peterb orough Nursi ng Cadets
from Mrs E M. King , divisional officer
In the April Rev iew Mr. W. R Morris asks Is Your First-Aid Up-to-Date?
The r ea l enthusiast will always see that it is. Many memb ers who have b ee n privileged to help in hospitals recently will wonder could not this query be addressed to Stores Dep ar tment , for in their catalogue of first- a id bags and satchels lint dressings are quoted as part of th e co nt en ts. Members doing ho spita l duty will n ot hav e see n much lint used for dressings during the past few years , and indeed man y firs t-a id posts use gauze , because it is much better.
Leigh-on-Sea E. lvI. King
from John A. Alderson, Branch Secretary
Being a regu l ar reader of the Review (and not missing a word of it) I have been able to acquire two dummy models - one to dress as an ambulance man th e other as a nurse - and we in R eigate hope to gain some window space to show off these models together with other items of SJ work. Going through the Review for ideas I came across the letter 'How Much Training?' in the February issue.
As Branch Secretary for industrial first-aid , this letter interested me. We know it is impossible to train everyone in f irst-aid , but in some factories emp loyees have to take first aid training as part of their job; some lik e it , but most don't. As Miss K. D. Wilson writes: a Jjttle knowledge is dangerous I hav e most of the St. John books and recently purchased Dig est of First-Aid , which I think is a wonderful little book. It tells the average pe rso n what to do to e nsure safety, and being a 17
four-hour c(\)urse they should be able to tackle it with confidence and efficiency; possibly later to join th e ranks of voluntary first -aid ers
I enjoy every minute of first-aid and nursing. In fact ol'lly yesterday our divisional superintendent and myself manned a first-aid post at a bridge on the A217 at Reigate for the inter-hospitals Pilgrims' Way stroll. We were hard at it for over two hours tending sprains , strains and blisters, and the thanks we got were most gratifying.
Reigate John A. Alderson
from Miss D. E. Massey
In the May Review the method of cutting plaster in the picture at the bottom of page 11 (reproduced above) look s extremely dangerous. Surely one cuts adhesive plaster to cover wounds before applying it, not afterwards? It's not that difficult to judge the length of plaster
It only needed som@on@ to accidentally knock the first-aider for the casualty to have the r est of his face cut as well!
Wendover Nursing Divisio n D. E. Massey
from R. P. Marsden, press officer
In response to Review March letter on ambulances from M. Newbold, Divisional Officer, here is a brief history of Southport Corps activities.
Much work was done in Southport prior to the start of the Health Service, running three ambulances, the cost of which was borne by contributing to a local St. John scheme.
Since th@ start of the Health Service work has concentrated on a beach first- aid post, Southport Flower Show duties, the Grand National, and long distance ambulance removals.
On age of vehicles, Southport Corps was running a 1937 Vauxhall 25 hp Lomas-bodied ambulance until about five years ago, but since has been running an Austin Sheerline, Bedford CA, and Karrier ambulance, but only two are in service at present.
The vehicles themselves are housed in a new three-bay arnbuiallce station at St. John HQ which was 'built by members in their spare time
On another theme, a suggestion is for a Brigade register of ambulances throughout the country to be available to divisions running long distance ambulance removals. Such a register, with addresses and telephone numbers, would be useful in the event of breakdowns en route with patients aboard.
Southport, Lanes. R. P. Marsden
A MISUNDERSTANDING
ft;om Terry M. Wing, amIDulaNce member
I am sorry if I gave the impression that I was criticising you when I referred to old 'ambulances' in my letter A Plea for Nurses, May Review. But I was replying to Divisional Officer New bold's letter published in an earlier Review.
I did not mention your narne in my letter, neither did I intend to imply that I wW;} the article on mobile units.
I will now thank you for the article on mobile units, that you pub lished in the Review. It was both informative and interesting. Mobile units are a very useful asset to the Br igade, and I feel that these veh icles whether new or elderly should b e e ncouraged in the division Any member that has worked in a first -aid tent would I'm sure, second my feelings here.
In my lett er I referred to ambulances.
I disagree with elderly, bone-sh aker ambulances that have to be push-started , much t he embanesment 0] Brigade mem bers present. I 31m certain that onlookers watching this sight wou ld have feelings of disgust, considering an ambulance is supposed to be an emergency vehicle.
Perhaps your confusion was due to my using the expression 'old bus'. By u sing this remark , I hoped to give the impress io n of a very old vehicle, well past its usefuln ess as an e m erge ncy front -lin e ambulance. Not neces sa rely a vehicle that once carried fare-paying passengers and now serves as a first-aid post, able to be sited exactly where need ed.
Members of my division have r e marked to m e on YOLlr unneccesary comments to my letter They appear to hav e understood my views but on reading your comments w ere instantly thrown into confusion.
London T er ry M. Wing
Edit: It was, as Mr. Wing says unfortunate that he used the term 'those old buses' in his previous letter. Naturally I took this to refer to previous articles on conversion of old buses to first-aid units. I was simply defending the effort put into these conversions. But it seems my defence was unnecessary.
PEN PALS
from Et. Carroll
Thank you for all the people who responded to the r equest for pen friends in the Janu a ry R eview. Such a large number of correspondents was received by each person t hat it would be impossible to answer them individ ually , so a list of these names and addresses requesting pen pal s in New Zealand wil l be published in our local magazine which appears every two months.
A uekland, New Zealand Et. Carroll
REVIEWED BY DR. C. C. MOLLOY
LIFE-SAVING FIRST-AID, a presentation by Camera Talks Ltd, consists of 3 sets of film strips with a total of 76 frames supervised by Dr. A Ward Gardner and are intended to be a teaching aid to supplement the advice given in 'New Safety and First-Aid' by A. Ward Gardner and Peter J. Roylance. Useful notes for guidance with helpful teaching suggestions prepared by Dr. A. Ward Gardner are provided.
The purpose of the first film strip 'Not Breathing' - 271.1, is to show what to do for someone who is not breathing and il1ustrates treatment given to a boy who is asphyxiated by drowning. Extension of the neck with mouth to nose resuscitation are illustrated and when breathing is restored, the method of maintaining in the coma position. The procedure for telephoning the ambulance and for loading into the ambulance is also illustrated. The use of the closed hand for supporting the chin is not the standard teaching and although the teeth are clenched the lips of the asphyxiated boy are parted and air would probably escape if the procedure adopted in the frames were followed.
The second film strip 'Bleeding' - 271.2, illustrates the treatment of external bleeding. A boy falls off the swing and cuts his leg on a broken dustbin with jagged edges. The use of immediate firm pressure over a clean handkerchief over the wound and elevation of the let is well illustrated and the improvisation of the Mother's apron to provide a pressure bandage convincing.
There are 19 frames in this seq uence and for a film strip which is designed to supplement 'New Safety and First-Aid' it is surprising that the dustbin is left lying around to provide a continuing hazard in sequences 6,12 and 17.
The third strip of 20 frames 'Unconscious' - 271.3, emphasizes that the treatment of unconsciousness should be directed towards keeping the air passages clear.
It i1lustrates a boy who falls off his bi cycle and sustains a minor head injury which renders him unconscious. The head is extended, breathing is confirmed and the added test of listening with the ear close to the casualty's nose and mouth is recommended. The method of turning in the coma position with the neck extended and the jaw forward is illustrated and the loading into the ambulance in the correct position shown.
The whole series is nicely presented with pleasant children dressed in gay colours and the fundamentals of first-aid in the three situations are clearly underlined. This series can be recommended for the teaching of life-saving first-aid and is particularly suitable for showing to St. John cadets and to schools.
Camera Talks Production 222/1-3
This series of three filmstrips deals with the problems of road accidents and is designed to assist in the teaching of elementary priorities at the site of the accident. A script is provided which is not dated; but the procedures which are based on the authorised Joint Manual seem up-to-date.
222/1
The first strip of 34 frames discusses car crash procedure, reconn aissance of the whole site, summarising aid and controlling idle spectators, release of a trapped casualty by lever age and paying attention to the risk of fire. Carefu l receival of a free
unconscious casualty from a
is illustrated and the importance of checking for a fractured spine and placing in the
position are emphasized.
The strip shows acriflavine medicated dressings used for burns but un medicated dressings would be preferable
Filmstrip 222/2
This strip of 31 frames shows the methods of getting access to an unconscious patient when the car doors are jammed. M 0 u th to mouth resuscitation and external cardiac compression are well illustrated.
Filmstrip 222/3
The last strip of 38 frames deals with another casualty in the same accident as before. He has cut an arte r y and the principles of control of haemorrhage are admirably illustrated. The last casualty is a pedestrian trapped under one of the cars and her open fracture of the lower limb and fractured upper arm are treated after careful removal, including tempora ry leverage of the car off the casualty.
The important principles of dealing with road accidents are well illustrated in these filmstrips. The casualties are members of the Casualties Union and the reactions are well simulated.
It is perhaps a pity that the arrest of arterial bleeding is dealt with in the third strip and not in the first , as the series sets out to underline the priorities of treatment. As asphyxia and cardiac arrest develop in the course of the exercise and not at the outset it is reasonable to leave the discussion of resuscitation to the second strip.
Nonetheless this series can be warmly recommended for illustration of Chapter 13 of the authorised manual in teaching first-aid.
Tape slide presentation from the Royal College of General Practitioners medical recording service
This tape slide presentation has been prepared by Dr. S. L. Javett and Mr. D. Hamilton Williams of the Surgical Unit of St. George's Hospital, London. It gives a clear account of the basic anatomy of hands and the motor and sensory los s following injury to the ulnas median and radial nerves , and the effect of injuries to the flexor and extensor tendons and fractures of the metacarpus and phalanges. It gives a good system of evaluation of hand injuries, but the anatomy is too detailed and the language too technical to be suitable for first-aiders however advanced. It cannot be used to illustrate or reinforce Chapter 21 - Injuries to the Hands and Fingers - in the authorised first-aid manual. It will be a valuable instruction for medical students, casualty officers and medical practitioners generally
Grace Robertson
MEMBERS AND FRIENDS of the Priory of Scotland and the St. John Association will be sad to hear of the resignation of the Priory Secretary, Grace Robertson. With her daughter now married and settled in Glasgow, she naturally could not follow the Priory across Scotland when it was decided to move the headquarters to Edinburgh.
Mrs. Robertson joined the Priory in 1955 as assistant to the Priory Secretary. In 1963 she became acting secretary and then received a permanent appointment in 1964. There are many who do not realise just what exacting are the duties of a Priory Secretary. They do not involve o nl y t he taking of minutes, the circularising of members and general day-to-day correspondence - although these are heavy responsibilities in an Order such as ours, which cannot afford a large secretarial staff. The Priory Secretary must also arrange seating and orders of procession for ceremonies that take place in churches and halls of different dimensions and which are sometimes not altogether suitable for our purposes; she must see that the robes, standard and sword are sent to the right place at the right time; she has (I know this from my own experience) to undertake correspondence in connection with the library and issue books as required; and above all, since she is at headquarters, she is in constant toucR with the committees meeting throughou{ the country and must deal with inquiries from individual members. After the Prior and the Chancellor the Priory Secretary must know more about the running of the Order throughout Scotland than any of the officers. The job of a Priory Secretary is an important one but it can often be thankless and unrewarding. Mrs. Robertson has earned the respect of us all.
But the Priory Secretariship has been only one of her responsibilities. She has been honorary secretary of the Glasgow Committee of the Order since its establishment in 1962; honorary secretary of the Glasgow branch of the St. John Association since its inception in 1961; honorary secretary of the St. John Foundation Hospital (Glasgow) Committee from September 1964 until the hospital closed in January 1969; and, following the disbandment of the Lossiemouth Committee, she took over the running of Skerrybrae from August 1967 to September 1970, assisting with bookings, paying of wages and settling of tradesmens' accounts. Grace Robertson's achievement has been herculean and although her service have been recognised by the C.St. J. wit h which she has just 20
Mrs. Grace Robertson,
been invested, the Priory of Scotland owes her a very great debt of gratitude.
Aberdeen Mountain Rescue Team
At 7.45 pm on May 1 while our
Mountain Rescue team was returning to its fuase camp at Glen Clunie after a training exercise, the team leader, Mr. W. A. Marshall, had a call from the police at Braemar, informing him that there had been an accident on Lochmagar and instructing the team to go to G1enmuick and send a party with lighting equipment to the summit plateau. This party helped to rescue an injured climber from that part of the Coire face known as the Eagle Buttress, while the rest of the team went around to Gelder Shiel and then up towards the Coire to recover the body of a second climber who had died. He had been leading up the Eagle Buttress rock climb and was 80 feet above his belayed companion, with no running belays for protection, when he fell about 160 feet. His companion managed to stop his fall and other climbers on Eagle Ridge were able to call to him But after about an hour, for reasons, unknown, he untied himself from the rope and fell the rest of the way to the foot of the buttress.
Altogether he fell about 400 feet. The team had the sad task of taking his body to Spital of Glenmuick for formal identification and then to the mortuary at Aboyne. It returned to its base camp at 5.00 am the following morning
This year's inter-state annual first-aid competition, Nigeria Police District, was held recently under the chairmanship of the district commissioner, Nigeria Police headquarters, Lagos.
A great improvement in the performances of the competitors in the rise in the marks scored in the team work and individual performances. The South Eastern State team, whcich came first with 346 points, won the D. S. Foundation cup, which was presented by the District Commissioner My. L. C. Meme. The Lonsdale-White cup for the best individual performance went to Peter Nya, the leader of South Eastern State team with a score of 80 points.
About thirty-six members of the force, including the Inspector-General of Police, who is also the chief com missioner for St. John in Nigeria and the commissioner for Police District, have been awarded the St. John service medal for ten years continuous and efficient service in the Brigade.
Nigeria's first-aid competitions (top right) the Midwest team, which finished third, questioning a patient
(left) Policewoman MacZianah Urevbu, of North Central State, is co ngratulated on second individual performance by Mr. L. C. Me me, dis tr ct commissioner
(right) Peter N ya receives L onsdaleWhite Trophy from Mrs. Kam Selem, the wife of the Chief Commissioner for St. John in Nigeria
The women of SJA Canada recently won a 14-year battle for their own flag, for since the Brigade's foundation in Canada 62 years ago only male divisions have been allowed to own or carry a flag. Leader of the revolution, Mrs. Phyllis Evans, a provincial staff officer, said: 'J originally approached three commissioners but they all refused.' But Mrs. Evans, who had been a member of the Brigade in England for 14 years, refused to give in. 'If the flag was carried by women in England, the Brigade's home, J didn't see why it couldn't be carried here.'
Eventually, last year the new commissioner Col. J. Berthiaume was approached and permission was granted. And so members of the Margaret MacLaren Corps, Montreal, became the first SJA women in Canada to carry their own flag Vive la non difference!
Miss M. A. Neville- Kaye presents a G rand Prior badge to Judith Brown, the sixth awarded to 122N Clapham Common, London division (Photo: South London News Group)
HERTS-Major-G e neral Sir George Burns, the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfo rdshire and pre sident of Hertfordshire St. John Ambulance, officially opened th e n ew SJ A County headq uart ers at Ashley Road, St Albans, recently. The acquisition of the premis es was mad e necessary b ecause of the increasingly irn pOTtant role the SJA is playing in the county. During 1970, the 1600 members undertook 4 2 600 hours of voluntary duty a nd tr ea ted over 4,800 cases. The purchase price of £'12,500 has placed a considerable strain on the finances of the Heft s command. To help overcome the financial problem s the Hertfordshire St. John Council has been formed under the chairman ship of Mrs. Barbara Cartland. As well as b ei ng a world famous authoress, Mrs. Cartland h as been connected with SJ A for many years and is the county vice-president of the nur sing divi ion s.
LIVERPOOL-Lord Rhodes (Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire) recently presented British Empire Medals to two Liverpool men. They were Mr. Henry J one, a station officer in the Liverpool Ambulance Service, and Sergea n t Leslie Mault, a Liverpool police training officer, who were named in the New Year's Honours li st.
Mr. Jones aged 58, s a SJA South Corps training officer, and has be en with the ambulance serv ce for 22 years a nd is an instructor at the ambulance training sc h ool.
including t h e two m ajo r awards: th e Bailiff's Shield in the co mbin ed adulrt co mp et it ion, J ersey with 6431/2 to Guernsey 617; and the Commissioner's Shield for t he co mbin ed cadet competitions, with Jersey 620 to Guernsey's 555 Guernsey nursing team won the Jers ey Tobacco Co's trophy , and the Guernsey nur sing cad et team won the Guernsey Fruit Export Co's trophy.
The trop hi es were presented by Lady Davis, wife of t h e Lieut.-Governor of Jersey, and 200 members were present at the celebratio n dinner where the Jersey Commissioner, Brigadier R. C. Lemprier e Robin, thanked the judges and welcomed the Guernsey members.
NORTH ANTS- To raise fu nd s towards the provis ion of a n ew motor ambulance fo r their p ubli c duty service Wellingborough Headq uarters Am bulance Division h eld a spon so r ed swi m at the lo ca sw imming pool. 76 sw imm ers took part, 24 youngsters und er 1 3 completing 239 w idth s of the pool while 52 older people swa m 956 le ngth s. The proceeds totalled £250, and so the division ca n buy another ambulance.
SOUTHAMPTON- on May 9 our headquarters at Kings Park Road was alive with a 'Home Nursing' training day for ambulance and nurs ing members and senior cadets from the central area of Hampshire.
Three beds were set up in screened areas, one for blanket ba thing, one for abdomi nal dressing, and the other for getting a patient in and out of b ed. A long table on the stage was eq u ipped to deal with various nursing proced ures - hot spooning eye irrigation, tubular gauze bandaging, Kaolin poultice, mouth tray and, for a little added int erest, urin e testing.
Workington's divisional officer Miss K."
D. Wilson was recently presented the higher first-aid certificate by county superintendent T. H Abbott (Photo: West Cumberland Times)
(Left) Westo n-super-Mare's cadet leader Ruth Davey, soon to join the QARNS, and sergeant Julie Amerbury with their Grand Prior badges. (Below) Some of SJA Weston-super-Mare's prize winners at the recent annual dinner (Photos: Weston Mercury)
LONDON-Di str ict co mp e tition finals resulted in: adult nursing, 1st No. 22 Harrow Nursing Division; bedmaking, 1st No. 14 5 East Engield Divi sion; nursing cadets, 1st No CN15 Harrow; ambulance ca d ets, 1st No. 93 Shirley; ambulance men , 1st No. 116 Willesden.
The South Western Area won the Rideout trophy for the area w ith top score in adult co mp et itions.
JERSEY-In the inter-insular competitions held rec en tly, Jersey won four of th e s x trophies
The members were d ivid ed into four groups and t he mornin g sess ion divided into three 40-minut e periods. The fourth period came in th e afternoon session thus each group moved on to complete the four units. Later in the afternoon there was an opportunity to catch up on anything one might have missed. A demonstration by a nursing officer was followed by members 'having a go
One problem had been the provision of 'patients' for the day, but Woolston cadets supplied four girls in bikinis and pyjamas, and thr ee members' husbands volunteered to h elp out.
As the first of it s kind here, the training day was voted a great success.
REVI EW CROSSWORD No.7 (71) Comp il ed by W A Po t er
ACROSS
1. Pa rt of h umeru s articulating with radius (9) 6 Lisp is a p e ssible result o f t h eir malformation (4) 9. Auda cit y o f cells of 12 A cr o ss ( 5) 10 Valve o f r ight side of the hea r t. (9 ) 11 Firemen ' s stockings? (4) 12. Undergarment in m a in part of central nervous syst e m ( 5) 13 H and pr e pare d f e r o ff e nsiv e action (4) 16 Male sin pro d u cing vesicle of genit o -urin a r y t r act. (7) 17. Muscle forming th e buttock . ( 7) 18. Bone with promin en t spin e. ( 7 ) 20. Shape ef characteristic ef consolidati o n of lung. (7) 2 2 Maltreatment of each pain (4) 2 3. Respira t ory tract secretion put in Australian State. (5) 24 Mary h idden in milita FY organisation (4) 27. Late r closing alLowed for straightening of limb. (9) 28 Obs ce ne material include s bow el evaeuant (5) 29 Facial di s figuration frorn misuse of cane . ( 4) 30. Die by dose wrongly wri tten having r efused to carry out instru etions. ( 9)
DOWN
1. Corner of the eye. (7) 2 N e rves de crea sing h eart-r at e , constricting pupils, and stimulating peristalsis. (15) 3 An adventurou s tr a mp (4) 4 A t aller form away from the median plane <d f the body. (7) 5 Crip p ling aim in Chinese Dynasty (7) 6. Dual form of praise (4) 7 Efferent vessel behind the kn ee (9.6) 8. Anatomical entrance te a cavity . ( 6) 14. Lack of energy and interest. ( 5) 15 Subterranean buds giving light. (5) 18 Saint with primates in the middle ear. (6) 19 Science with pra cti cal aim s. (7) 20. Ate nuts in a manner producing dreaded infec tion of wound. (7) 21 French physician who des c ribed circulat OF Y abnormalities of extremities (7) 25. Form erly in ganglion c ell (4) 26. Plant with medicinal pro p erties. (4)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 6-71
ACROSS
1. Palpebrae ; 9 F a cial ; 10 . Drip ; 11. Neck ; 12. Retina ; 13 . Max.ill.ary 14. C.a c he.t ; 19. A.SS; 21. Hare-lip ; 22. Pres s. or ; 23 Tay; 25. Gib bon ; 29 Pituitary ; 30. Chiasm ; 32. Long; 33 Ants ; 34 Tendon; 35. Sec.R E .Tory. DOWN
2. Airway ; 3 Pepsin ; 4 Bungle ; 5 A.scar.is ; 6 Pace-make F; 7 MI.NI; 8 O 1.fac tory 15 Ho se ; 16 Pha gocyte ; 17 Grub 18. Bloods.hot ; 19. Ap t; 20. S. p y ; 24 AdLpose ; 26 Hunger 2 7 Strait ; 28 Ureter ; 31. lana 24
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•
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OF ST. JOHN
St. John's Day 1971 p.2
Ov erseas Conference p.3
The address of YOUR club is:
The Roll of the Order of St. John, amended to include appointments up to May 1970, is available price £2 a copy from the Stores Dept. St. John's Gate, London, E.C 1.
e it interesting and your students will find it easier to absorb. Use
Immediate Treatment by J. N. Wilson, ChM, p.4
A Public Duty p.6
Around and About by the Editor p.8
Halt! Who goes there? by R. E. Cooper p.12
Rescue Time p.15
Readers' Views p.16
Films p.19
News from Scotland - Wales p.20
Overseas News p.21
News from the Divisions p.22
EDITOR: FRANK DRISCOLL, 26 Pembroke Gardens, London, W 8. (01 6038512)
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A jolly Chancellor L. H. Nicholson Bailiff Grand Cross , RCMP (Rtd.) of Canada, recently met trim young Crusader Debbie Harper of Victoria, British Columbia, when he visited Canada's West coast for an investiture for members of the Order. SJA Canada's crusaders are 16 to 20-year·olds, gals and guys (Photo: Bill Hal kett)
WE CERTAINLY have many of them in the Middle East. Because of greatly in creased running costs and diminished income since 1967, the Ophthalmic Hospital in Jerusalem is facing grave financial difficulbes.
Last year 60,000 people came for treatment and of these over 3,000 had eye operations, so the hospital is still doing a very important job.
At the suggestion of an Arab business man, Mr. Abdelnour Janho, some Arab friends of the hospital who had heard of the problem formed a small committee calling themselves the 'The Friends of St. J oIm' A key fjgure in the committee was Dr. Yousef Najjar, a 50 -year-old Palestinian with a brisk and business hke manner.
Using his influence as editor of the Jerusalem Arabic language newspaper AI Quds, he set to wo r k by writing articles and with personal contacts to raise help
Anyone who has tried to do this will know what hard work it is. As the saying goes 'money doesn't grow on trees' , yet over £30 000 has come in over less than 3 months!
Mayors of small villages, Directors of Education of large districts, all began descending on the hospital. 'This contribution was raised by c ollectors in schools in the district'. 'The Municipality of Bethlehem feels it is doing no more than its duty in helping the hospital'. 'Please accept this donation from our employees'
Such were the personal messages and letters that began to pour into the Warden of the hospital, Doctor Keith Batten. Mr. Issa Marogi, the genial hospital lay superintendent, devoted his spare time to supervising and organising the accounting and banking of the gifts. The hospital office staff worked many unpaid extra hours to deal with receipts and collections.
More moving than the larger sums from organisations were the small amounts from individuals. An elderly , toothless Bedouin woman gave £6, probably severa l years of savings A home for blind girls gave nearly £20 although they are themselves struggling to raise money for their own building.
A schoolboy from Jericho said he had no money to give but would work without payment for the hospital for a week
Yes, the Hospital has many friends But it needs more. Are you one?
... The Clerical Bre th en a nd Sub - Prel a te s follow the Cr oss of the Order ca rried by Lt .- Col. E. Rem ngto n - H obbs, in proces sio n in the nave of St. Pau 's Cathed ral
ON SATUROA Y June 26 eight hundred
SJ A m em bers marched through th e City of London to St. Paul's Cathedral as par t of the St. John 's Day (June 2 4) celebratio n s.
The preacher at the annual commemoration and re-dedication service he ld at the Cathedral was the Rev. Canon Christopher Perowne, TO, Sub-Prelate of the Order.
Delegates a nd H ea dquarters
One of th e two cadet bands on parade - Banbury ambulance and nursing cadets
HELD IN LONDON JUNE 28 AND 29
The first St. John Am bul ance overseas conference, held at London Headquarters in Jun e, was atte n de d by twenty -s ix delegates from Commonwealt h co u ntries. The two day co n ference was c h aired by t h e Chief Commande r and delegat es represented t h e Pri ories of Ca n ada , A u stra lia and New Zealand, t h e Commandery of Western Australia, Barba do s, Grenada , Guyana, Hong Kong, Paki stan, Kenya, West Malaysi a, Ma lta, Nigeria, St. Vin cent, Tanzania and Zam bia. A report of th e co nference will be p ublished in the Sept em ber Review
(L to R) Lady Brecknock, Sir Hugh Stephe nson Dir ecto Genera S ir H y lton P oynton, Dire c t or Overseas, Si r W lli am Pike, Chief C ommande r and L ady Moyra Browne, Superintendent in Chief (L to R) Mr. W. H Gr ocott, Staff Officer New Zea land, Mrs. P. L. Robinson Superintendent - in-Chief Canada, Col. J Redmond Roche Chief Commissioner Canada Br ig.-Gen. C. J. Laurin Director Association, Canada; Dr. A. W Burton, Commissioner , Victo r ia, Australia; Dr N Co ye r Dep. Commissioner, Western Austral a; Mr. S. G R adford, Acting Deputy Commissioner, Zambia L to R) Mrs. E. G. B. Gooding, Sec. St.J Cou ncil, Barbados; Mr. I. Crum Ewing, Cha rman St J. Council, Guyana; Dr. J. E Adetoro, Chairman St.J. Counci l, Nigeria; Mr. J Midley Scott, Deputy Commissione r Nigeria ; Mr. Hamza Aziz, Chairman Association ....T anzania
casualties and to treat those awaiting evacuation.
Equipment
This varies with the severity of the injuries and the situation. One must not forget the importance of providing protective clothing for the medical worker. This is fairly simple when it forms part of the equipment of a mobile team, but for the doctor who may occasionally find himself crawling amongst wreckage an old mackintosh and gum boots kept in the boot of the car can be invaluable.
by J. N. Wilson, ChM, FRCS
THE :BRIEF for this lecture is clear from the above title: to discuss what can and should be done at the site of an accident and during transit to a medical centre. I will try to show that what is theoretically possible is not necessarily the most sensible course to adopt.
Although my experience in this field is confined to wartime exploits as a regimental medical officer, I think one learns a lot of what can be done at the site by being at the receiving end of any accident centre which deals with the major trauma col lected from our roads today; but although most of my examples will be drawn from this material , the management of an accident at the site differs very little, varying more with the local circumstances than with the type of accident; and what may b e possible in the factory acciden t may be quite impossible in an underground accident , or a motor-way. pile-up.
There is nothing new about the road accident - it has been with us since the invention of the wheel. It is the type and complexity of the injury which has changed, and this is probably directly related to the increase in vehicle velocity and design. Accidents between slow moving vehicles rarely produce multiple injuries and do not present problems of access to the victims. The modern car crash may well prese1ilt both.
In considering this question perhaps it is easier to get the priorities right if one examines the difficulties facing some of the under-dev e lop e d countries. During a
Wilson ChM, FRCS who is consultant surgeon to the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital.
recent tour of the accident services in Ghana I found th a t most of the casualties from the roads arrived in taxis or lorrie s
The result of the inevitable delay treatment could be devastating. So the rapid access to the injured and th eir evacuation to a medical centre have first priority; treatment at the site of the accident must not interfere with these two primary objects. The management of the injured at the site of the accident is best considered under three headings: (I) Personn el; (2) Equipmwt; and (3) Treatment.
Personnel
Although doctors like to feel that th ey are needed at the site of an accident, in most cases the rescue work and first -ai d
treatment is probably done better by first-aiders or ambulance men who often have a le ss comp li cated approach to essentials. There ar e, howev e r , some conditions where a m ed i cal offi ce r or a mobile team are invaluable: for example , when amputation and a n aesthetic is required, or even when it is n ecessary to give a pain reli eving inj ectio n , conditions usually asso ciated with the victim b eing trapped in wreckage.
I am not convinced that in th e average type of accident a do cto r on th e spot can do more to save li fe than the well trained first -aider - provid ed that th ere is ready access to hospit al care There may be a place in rural areas for a scheme suc h as has been pioneered by Dr. Easton and hi s colleagues in Yorkshire, but a similar sc heme for urban areas as advocated by Dr. Gogler in Heidelberg can only be regarded as an ex p e n sive luxury , whi ch in this country t he Health Service could ill afford. In most road acci dents t he situation is dealt with very satisfactorily by th e police, the fir e service and the ambulance personnel; the prop er pla ce for the d octor is i n the accident departm e nt receiving room. In the major disaster the s t uation is qUli te differen t. Then it is import a nt to h ave a man of some seniority in charge of evacuation. He must be in communication with the rece iving hospitals and be ab le to tak e decisio ns regarding p r iori ty of the injured. Also, t here may be a necess ity for a mobile surgical team to deal with trapped
Personal equipment should be restricted to what can be carried easily in a satchel. Plenty of dressings and slings, pain relieving drugs , airways, skin pencil, labels and torch are the essentials. Mobile team equipment is of necessity more co mprehensive ; it must always be in a state of readiness and stored in its own department Becaus e of its bulk it ca n only be used in a major disaster where it is possibl e tD set up a headquarters , an essential prerequisHe if such a team is to work efficiently. Stretchers are still a problem in accident work and the time is long overdue when all stretchers should be standardised. The pneumati c splint has revolutionised the immobilisation of limb fractures , but 1 still feel that there is a place for the Thomas splint to immobilise the femoral fracture, particularly if there is del ay, or a long ambulance journey. The Taunton splint, developed by the ambulance services in that area, has mu ch to commend it for simplicity of application and ease in packing. Elaborate resuscitative equipment is of doubtful value and intravenous transfusion is rarely indicated at this stage. Elaborate drug therapy is better avoided because of the difficulties in making a complete diagnosis. Su ct ion, however, is a 'must' and it is high time that it was available in all ambulances. Simple positive pressure respirators are very useful , but I am not convinced that oxygen is of great value at this time.
Treatment
This may be considered under three headings:
1. Life saving procedures.
2. Relief of pain.
3. Prevention and treatment of shock.
Life Saving Procedures: In theory, given the equipment, one can do everything at the accident site which can be done in the accident receiving room.
In practice we know this to be impossible, and much valuable evacuation time can be lost by unsuccessful attempts to carry out sophisticated resuscitation at this stage. However, the principle and the priorities remain the same. They are: 1. Ensure an adequate airway; 2 Deal with cardiac arrest; 3. Stop bleeding ; 4. Treat cerebral compression.
The Airway: This takes priority over everything else, even cardiac arrest, which may be secondary to the ventilation problem. It is useless to start any form of artificial respiration until the airway is clear. Simple measures, under the circumstances, are the best - tongue forward, suction, head to the side, and a simple mouth airway. If you are slick with an intratracheal tube you may be a b 1e to pass one under difficult conditions, but otherwise it is better not to waste time with this procedure, and in any case it will probably only be possible in cases where there is delay in evacuation. Similarly, it is doubtful if em e rgency tracheostomy is ever a practical proposition, for even in the best conditions this can be difficult operation unless carried out as an elective operation with an intratracheal tube in place.
It has been said that a patient suffering from a severe chest injury dies either from bleeding, suffocation, or drowning.
We can do little about intrathoracic bleeding at this stage, but we can do something to prevent death from the other two causes.
In the main the respiratory problems at the site are those of obstruction from vomit, blood and the tongue. These can be largely dealt with by positioning and suction, and it is well to remember the old RAMC saying about the positioning of a head inj ury case: 'If he can see heaven he'll soon be there'. Other causes of respiratory distress cannot be diagnosed at this stage and are therefore untreatable until later.
I feel I should say something at this stage about artificial respiration. Although positive pressure respiratory methods are all the rage now, it is well not to forget the time-honoured chest compression technique. It has a particular use in resuscitating the drowned, because in this instance it is important to pump out the water from the lungs and this is best done by thumping the chest with the patient face downwards. Positive pressure ventilation ca n be performed in its simplest form by using the double airway, but preferably some form of respirator of the Ambu bag type should be used, remembering always to extend the neck in either method and to use a mouth airway with the Ambu bag.
Cardiac Arrest: Without doubt, the introduction of external cardiac massage has been responsible for the resuscitation of many injured who would otherwise have died at the site of the accident. But probably this technique is more applicab le to medical than surgical emergencies, and amo ng these I would include cardiac arrest from electric shock. Internal cardiac massage has no place at this stage.
There are one or two points about external cardiac massage which should be emphasised First , it must be carried out with the patient on a firm base (ground,
floor, or bed-board); second, sufficient time must be given between chest compression to allow the heart to fill (about 40-60 compressions a minute); third, the airway must be clear; fourth, the double-handed pressure over the lower half of the sternum is the most effective compression of the heart; and last, a carotid .pulse must be restored, filling of neck veins means nothing. Arrest of Haemorrhage: I am sure that a number of those who are responsible for the initial treatment of the injured have been guilty of failing to control bleeding because they have become so involved in the other aspects of resuscitation. At the accident site, control of accessible bleeding is the first move in resuscitation. Even in the largest wounds of the limbs bleeding can be reduced, or stopped, by pack dressings of the old 'shell dressing type'. Otherwise, limb bleeding can be controlled at pressure points or by tourniquet.
I mention tourniquets quite brazenly because I think they can still have a place in first-aid, provided they are applied intelligently , for short periods, and their time of application clearly marked. I also think that there is a place for the odd haemostat in the medical officer's satchel. One other point I should like to make about haemorrhage: fractures may be responsible for considerable loss of blood, even when there are relatively small wounds and particularly if the fracture is complicated by injury to one of the large vessels. By the time the patient is admitted to the accident department the blood pressure may be so low as to temporarily stop the bleeding and therefore give a false impression of the amount of blood loss. An accurate description of the amount of blood lost at the site of the accident can sometimes be invaluable.
Cerebral Compression: Although nothing can be done at this stage to actively relieve this condition it is important to do nothing to make it worse. The clear airway is again of the utmost importance ; a knowledge of the state of consciousness at the site of the accident may be valuable later in assessing a case of deepening unconsciousness; and the withholding of morphine in suspected head injury cases will prevent masking of valuable clinical signs.
Relief of Pain: It is in relief of pain that a doctor at the site of an accident can be most useful , for he alone can decide whether a pain-relieving injection should be given at this stage. Undoubtedly, morphine (15 mgm) is the most effective drug, and is most easily administered in these circumstances by the 'Tubonic' syrette. If given, it must be clearly marked on the patient; and this is particularly important in major accident conditions where a number of doctors
On May 28 1971 the Queen inaugurated a pumping station at Wixoe, Essex. This station is the 'nerve centre' of a complex £8V2 million engineering project which basically channels water from the lowlands of Norfolk to the south-east parts of Essex, thus lessening the risk of floods in Norfolk and providing the populated and industrial parts of Essex with much need water supplies.
The Brigade in Essex were asked to provide ambulance and first-aid facilities at this function. Three Essex divisions and one from West Suffolk duly deployed to look after the thousand school children and many hundreds of guests and members of the public who came to see the Queen.
The event was so well organised and police control so efficient that our services were in little demand.
The Queen prepared to depart and County Staff Officer T. M. Lytham went on his final rounds of the three first - aid posts Two reported the odd plaster, a case or two of faintness, and a great demand for drinks of water from thirsty youngsters but no major casuaUies. He then visited the Saffron Walden Division who had their mobile first-aid post in the key position. In answer to his enquiries, again the answer was treatment of blisters and so on, but said Supt. Mrs. Grey: 'We have sustained the royal chauffeurs with cups of tea and provided the Queen's driver with water and a waste bucket to wash the royal car'. With a chuckle she added : 'He's autographed the bucket to prove it'.
Report entry: one royal wash.
BY THE EDITOR
Barbados: Col. J. Connell resigned as Commissioner.
Ceylon: Dr. M. A. Paul appointed Commissioner, vice Col. D. N. Rockwood.
Lt.-Col. D. A. Jilla appointed Dep. Commissioner.
Cornwall: Dr. Towle to be County Surgeon vice Dr. Eastcott.
Cumberland: Gp. Capt. Aikens to be CStJA.
Col. A. Matthew to be Commissioner, vice Gp. Capt. Aikens. Derbyshixe: Capt. Drury-Lowe to be CStJA
Dr. Latham Brown to be Dep. Cty Dir. Gloucestershire: Lady Violet Vernon appointed President S tJ A Norfolk: Dr. H. B. Bailey to be County Surgeon, vice Dr. G. S. Joss Northamptonshire: Lt .-C mdr. 1. W. Ford to be an additional Deputy Commissioner.
Pakistan: Mr. Habib Ibraham Rahim toola appointed Chairman Association and Chief Commissioner , vice Mr. Justice Siddiky.
Divisional officer Denise Chennell of Willesden writes: membe rs of 37 Paddington Ambulance and SON Willesden Nursing Divisions, London District, were guests of the Mannheim group of Johanniter Unfall Hilfe for five days during May. We had met members of their organisation on duty at Biggin Hill Air Fair last year and at Sandown Park C. U. competitions , and they invited u s to share public duty with them thi s year at their annual town 'Mai-Markt' and May Day celebrations.
The J. U.H. was disbanded before the war, and has been revived with great enthusiasm during the last 20 years. Their badge is a white St. John cross on a red background and their uniforms are a smart green/brown colour. Most of the members are under 30 years old. The organisation receives some funds from the Government, as there is no paid ambulance service in Mannh ei m and the members are called upon for all accident/transport incidents in the town and to staff motor-way rescue stations a 24-hour basis at weekends
Their first-aid arrangements at the Mai-Markt was set up in a series of tents. It is surprising how sim ilar first-aid post abroad are to ours - yes, they do brew tea! A very inter es ting feature was that each day a diffe re n t member, irrespective of rank, is selected to be in charge of the post, wearing a white duty armband on his uniform. This seemed to be a useful opportunity for selected members to show their initiative and improve their a rgani sing an d first -aid skill. Th eir organisation does not appear to have women officers. There is no rigid 'signing-on' procedure , and a surprising lack of formality on the post. However, I am sure that should an emergency have arisen , everything was geared to swi ng into efficient action.
Much of their first-aid equipment is obtained as manufacturers' samples - a good public relations exercise. Members individual kits are packed in a very neat leather satchel about lOins x 8 ins. The amount of compact equipment these contain is amazing. We wish we could have 'acquired' one as a souvenir.
All groups (divisions) are combined and the town of Mannheim boasts that it has the first cadet division in the organisation - although th e re is not a nation wide cadet organisation. This was formed last year, and is also combined.
Each member ca rries a supply of contact slips, ra ther like a visiting card, stamped with the name and address of a senior mem ber in the town. These are handed to would-be recruits , and left with casualties treated, so that they may wri t e to comment (favourably or otherwise) on the treatment they have received (and of co urs e, attach a donation if they wish).
We were on duty for a day and a half and the JUH courteously let us treat most of the casualties. It is surprising how first-aid treatment surmounts language barriers, and how procedures are basically the same. Some of the ca sualties we
SJA's Skinner family of Nottingham with a total of 141 years service. (L to R standing) Frank with 45 years service, his daughter and son-in-law Christine (13 years) and Richard Knight (11 years), brother Harold (42 years), and Frank's wife Ada (30 years) in the chair (Photo: Nottingham Guard· ian Journal)
treated included a drug overdose and a very badly crushed leg. And yes - dozens of lost children, a nd a few lost parents.
Several ambulances were on station but the prize vehicl e we admired the was a crash rescue vehicle which doctors can use to perform emergency surgery at the site of motor race accidents. This fantastically equipped vehicle was donated by various manufacturers co nnected with motor racing equipment.
Our members were also taken to visit the accident and X-ray units of the local hospital and the emergency rescue station on the motorway.
Socially, our visit was a tremendous success too. We stayed as guests of the members and their families, and the hospitality we received defies description. Suffice to say we are all enrolling for German language classes this autumn We spent a very enjoyable day in nearby Heidelberg ; the JUH organised a coach trip for us. We also went bowling, and had another very pleasant evening at a restaurant, when JUH members brought along a guitar and accordion and was singing long past closing time.
The visit was a wonderful experience we are not likely to forget Both organisations have much to learn from each other; our visit proved that first-aid is international, and we are hoping that this will be the first in a series of exchange visits and duties between the town of Mannheim and divisions of London District
I hear that Yeovil Brigade members were faced with a real-life emergency recently when they were about to leave their Southville headquarters for an exercise As men and women of the Brigade
prepared to set off to Bridgwater for a simulated train crash disaster, a man ran down thc;\ road to tell them that his next door neighbour had collapsed after an electric shock.
Moments before Mrs. Dorothy Graves had been ironing a pair of net curtains in her home. The lead connection began to spark and, as she switched off the iron , she received an electric shock .
Mrs . Graves staggered from her home to call her neighbours, out when she returned to her own home, she collapsed unconscious. The alarm was raised and SJA transport officer John Griffin was first on the scene to give Mrs . Graves the kiss of life Ambulance Member Robert Randall took over the resuscitation and Mrs. Graves regained consciousness. She was later seen by a doctor. See picture above.
The Order has chosen the Earl of Shelburne, one of the pilots competing in the Canada Air Race, to convey its
See ON THE SPOT. Left, the casualty Mrs. Graves, and (right) her rescuers Transport Officer John Griffin and Robert Randall (seated) (Photo: W. H. Rendell, Yeovil)
sufficiently to board the train at Woiking, Surrey, and head for Ash Vale.
But there he collapsed again and Apprentice Sergeant Timothy Pitcher the ex - cadet aged 18, and Apprentice
Lance-Corporal Brian Scott-Ison, aged 17, of the Royal Army Medical Corps, battled to bring him round.
Said Apprentice Sergeant Pitcher: "We used mouth to mouth resuscitation. It was almost a minute before his h eart started again."
The two medics were returning to the RAMC barracks at Ash Vale from a camping course at Dorset.
Mr. Pringle regained consciousness in hospital at Farnham.
This is the second time that Tim Pitcher's first-aid training as a cadet has come in useful since he joined the army
The first occasion he was on a climbing course when one of the members slipp ed and seriously hurt his back.
greetings to the representa tive in British Colum bia of the Priory of St. John in Canada, on the occasion of the centenary of the Province.
An engraved silver portrait medal (see photo below) of the Duke of Gloucester, Grand Prior of the Order, was handed to Lord Shelburne by l 5-year-old St. John Ambulance cadet sergeant Leslie Keys of Dagenham at a reception for the pilots given by the High Commissioner for Canada, Mr. C. S. A. Ritchie, in London at the end of June, two days before the race started from RAF Abingdon on July 1.
On arrival in British Columbia Lord Shelburne handed over the Grand P rior's medal at a ceremony in Victoria.
EX-SJA CADET
I hear two young soldiers used the kiss of life lfec ently t @ save a man whose heart stopped beating.
Mr. Leslie Pringle , aged 50, collapsed while waiting for a train with his wife and three children. But he recovered
John Harri s (Photo Charles Male)
How's this for a record of SJ A service by 81-year-old John Harris, area president of North Warwickshire, sent to me by an old friend of his:
Firs t-Aid Certificate 1904
Home Nurs ing Certificate 1905
Joined Dudley Am b ul ance Division J905
Founder of Nether on Division 1914
Founder of Harts Hill Gasworks section to Netherton Division EH6
Fo under ofKinver Nursing Division 1924
Fo underofK inver Ambulance Division 1926
Voluntary first-aider at the works ofN. Hingley, Netherton, for 23 years.
Ambulance officer at Netherton, promotion1917
Divisional sup erinte nd e nt , promotion 1921
Corps officer, (Dudley), promotion 1929
Appointed Serving Brother Order St. John 1933
Corps Supt. (Dudley), promotion 1944
Retired
Becamepresident 1947
Became area president 1951
Appointed Officer Brother, Order St. John 1965
The silver medal flown to British Columbia. See story BRITISH COLUMBIA
During the period of 23 years, Mr. Hali!ris treated 1 150 casualties in the works, plus numerous home and street accidents.
His record of attendances at inspections, competitions, parades , and casual area and divisional visits over the last seven years (remember Mr. Harris is now 81) are: 1964 - 37 ; 1965 - 41; 1966 - 43; 1967 - 50; 1968 - 12; 1969 - 19; 1970 - 14 ;
Until two years ago Mr. Harris drove his own car, but now has to depend on relatives to attend i n spections, etc. What can one say?
I hear that over £1,000 was raised by a sponsored walk for the funds of the Brigade in Northamptonshire recently. 313 walkers took part, 156 finishing the course. Each division taking part received a share of the proceeds and the remainder
For a lifetime of social service
of
went towards carrying on the work in the county. This is the fourth year such an event has been held and has proved a fruitful source of i n come to both division and county finances. One participant was sponsored for over £80
.. Apprentice Hugh O'Neill, 17, ambulance m e mber of No. 5 Area Liverpool SJA, had no doubts about what to do when he saw an accident from a bus on which he was travelling. He jumped off and dashed to the scene - and his prompt action helped to save the life of a ser iousl y injured eight-year-old boy. Hugh gave the boy the kiss of life at the roadside when he stopped breathing, a nd travelled w ith him in the ambulance to hospital, helping the crewmen when
may be operating on the site. In the official report on one serious rail disaster , comment was made abo.ut the number of cases of morphine overdose.
Prevention and Treatment of Shock: Relief of pain will do much to prevent shock, particularly if care is taken to prevent pain during :rn,ovement and transport to hospital. Adequate temporary splintage is important , and I have already mentioned the use of the J!lfieumatic and Taunton splint in this report. The spinal board (slide) may have its uses but it can be difficult to apply, and I think careful lifting and a firm stretcher may be as ad van tageous. A
the boy , who suffered multiple head injuries and a broken leg , agai n stopped breathing.
But the parents of the shy hero did not realise just what he had done until Hugh re ceived a lett e r of praise from Mr. J. A. Lucas, area commiss ion er SJ A. Mr. Lucas said in the letter: 'The Lancashire County Ambulance crew and the casualty sister of Alder Hey Hospital have commented in glowing terms on the efficiency of the assistance you provided, and the part you played in sustaining the boy's life'.
The letter added: 'The boy is alive thanks to the part you played initially'. Hugh 's father said: 'We didn t know much about the accident at all until the letter came. Hugh had just told us he had helped in an accident'.
Th e Editor
(continued from page 5)
simple neck co llar is a useful splint and easily applied; it is probably a wise precaution to use it in any suspected injury to the servical spine. It is doubtful whether intravenous transfusion, or drugs other than morphine, have any pl ace in the type of primary treatment discussed, and certainly the administration of the time-honoured 'hot sweet tea' should be actively resisted - it only leads to anaesthetic problems later on!
Summary
And now it remains for me to sum up. Perhaps I can best do this by commending to you the '4 B's' of roadside first-aid. These are: 1. Breathing;
2. Beating; 3. Bleeding; 4. Brain damage assessment.
In other words: Maintain the airway, treat cardiac arrest, stop bleeding, and record state of consciousness. One other 'B' can be added to this list and that is: Banish pain.
When I was in Australia about a year ago I listened to an address by an eminent surgeon in which he said that no lecture was worth anything unless it left you with a message. My message with regard to treatment at the site of accident is contained in these five essential principles. Know them - and you won't go far wrong.
THOUGHTS ON THE ORGANISATION AND FUTURE ROLE OF SJA
by R. E. Cooper, staff officer North Corps (A), Warwick
IN MY TWENTY SIX YEARS as a 'Johnnie', from cadet, ambulance member, cadet officer and superintendent, and lately to the dizzy height of corps staff, I have adjusted to many changes, some necessary, and some perhaps not so necessary. Long asstlciation with youngsters has taught me the value of change if it means keeping up to date, but not if it is just for change's sake. On reviewing the present situation of SJA it seems to me that there are still many changes due if we are to maintain our standards of service, and attract and keep the necessary younger members.
To my mind, the first thing required is a complete overhaul of cadet policy and training. Doubtless many members with better brains than mine have said this, and many more will do so. Neither do I assume that my suggestions are absolutely right, but I hope they may at least give food for thought. My views spring from a male standpoint, and where they conflict with nursing cadet opinions and practices, I hope I find forgiveness or sympathy from my sisters in uniform. It may also be that my experiences are peculiar to 12
Warwickshire , and that other counties differ.
Points to Ponder
Cadet Ages: When the powers that be decimated the cadet divisions of their most useful members some f ew years ago by the promotion to adult status at th e age of 15/16, I was one of the distraught superintendents who immediately had to set about completely rebuilding my division, which on reflection was possibly a good thing, particularly for the senior division. But regrettably the percentage of cadets staying with adults seems to be declining; I don't propose here to apportion blame for this trend, as divisions have adopted different means to maintain cadet interest, with varying degrees of success.
It is not, however, with the upper age that I am concerned, but with a lower age group. At the occasion of the alteration of ages, I, and others, made representation at county levels for the Association to reduce the minimum age at which the Preliminary First Aid
somewhat lacking, but my experience has iD een that the syllabuses in nearly all cases require far too long periods of study or lecture Of course, some subjects can be taken at school, but these in the main are of more appeal to the nursing cadets, hence the superiority in numbers of girl Grand Prior badge holders over boys. Most of the syllabuses are also ou t-of-date , such as the inclusion of semaphore in the signaller's badge. I would like to see a wider range of more simple subjects, with perhaps a maximum of three advanced subjects , such as life saving, history of the Order , or an Association subject (other than first-aid) , as mandatory.
Ambulance Cadet Uniforms: Oh dear. How often is this one trotted out, you may say. Since the introduction of the current style shirt (remember the lancer front?) we have had several different qualities : tie holders, then no tie holders, button holes which wouldn't take the loose metal buttons, fraying collars, etc.
To be fair to the stores manager, the
Certificate (later the Basic First Aid, then the Essential s, yes, I know!) cou ld be taken to 10 years , or even 9 years, so that the gap could be filled This, and later requests, were refused Instead we now have a text book and an examination which are designed for the ages of 11 to 65, and which stil l have differences of treatment compared with the curre nt First Aid Manual. A cadet now h as a maximum effective life of 4 years in which to attempt proficiency subjects and train for competition work, in addition to pass i ng re-exams, divisional duties and so forth. As to the official policy on junior cadets, this appears to me almost non-existent, as the only information appears briefly in the superintendents' handbook. Juniors may be desirable, but they are still not cadets, and I for one found it an impossible task to run cadets and juniors together unless orne has several helpers. May I therefore suggest a re-th!i.nk on the minimum age and on the text book?
Proficiency Badges: Perhaps all my former cadets have been of limited intellect or my powers of persuasion are
latest batch (May 1970!) appear very good, but whose bright idea was it to have plastic haversacks? And at such a price too! Has the stores manager ever seen a plastic haversack after a cadet has had it for 6 months or more? Why does a cadet need a haversack anyway? The most important requirement for a cadet is some form of jacket, showerproof and possibly windproof. For years I have bela boured this point, putting forward through county everything from ex-Government battle blouses to anoraks.
Has not the stores manager seen the Scout movement's three-quarter length jacket in three plain colours for air land and sea scouts? I appreciate (as a former divisional treasurer, perhaps more than most) that we have to consider costs, and that divisions have different ideas on uniform finance, whether to supply free, or on part payment, or what. But having spent a few years in the outfitting trade and now as an industrial buyer , I consider that it is not impossible for us to arrange
with some manufacturer to produce a simple, three-quarter length, zipped cotton showerproof coat in grey at a reasonable price. One only has to look at the natty outfits worn by some van drivers or petrol station attendants to realise the potentials, for these garments are often supplied by industrial clothing manufacturers and the quantities req uired would not be as great as for our cadets. If we adopted something on these lines , the shirt could be grey, without trimmings, and with insignia worn on the jacket. Even the belt could be discarded if we dispensed with the haversack, in place of which a pocket first-aid pack could be used The beret and tie could be retained, and possibly the lanyard (it would come in handy for lashing recalcitrant staff officers! )
Let us now turn to the organisation of ad ult divisions and administration The Great British public, whom we serve and look to for financial help, cannot understand that we are not all in the same
unit and that our areas often overlap. This is particularly noticeabl e when it comes to flag days (depending on the local county, council, e tc), and also wher e we have separate administration staffs for our ambulanc e, nursing and cadet, corps and areas.
For instance if I am approached by an outside organisation to arrange duty cover for some ev e nt it may be necessary to contact three or more different divisions, or staffs , in order to cover the event. We may also have occasions where a town division is vastly overloaded with duties, while a county division , perhaps only a mile or so away, has nothing. I fully realise that many divisions work amicably with neighbours, and with their own associated divisions A, N. or cadet, but this is not always the case. Duty staff officers, or their counterparts, also co-operate with divisions with vary i ng success. It is, however to the public that we should present a united front.
For instance, in my home town of some 70,000 population there are two separate divisions, each with nursing and cad et divisions and their own headquarters, two miles apart. These form part of one corps, but are administered by four separate corps and county staffs. In addition, there is one industrial division in the corps, and four colliery divisions (but only one colliery!) administered by a diffenmt corps staff. Although we are numerically strong on paper, it is doubtful whether many of these adult divisions could claim an effective strength of more than eight members. These are the reliable members which superintendents rely on for fund raising, duties, competitions, repairing buildings and everything else connected with Brigade activity.
How often will some of these activities clash with those of a neighbouring division? And how often will the public wonder why? On the question of flag days, the dates granted will often depend on local Authority ru ]ings, which can mean one Saturday in Coventry, followed by another in Nuneaton, and then Atherstone, or Bedworth; these places are only a few miles apart, and the public commute from one to the other, often complaining to collectors: 'But I gave only last week!' Should not our flag day be h(dd on the same date throughout the CQuntFy? We are a nationwide organisation. Perhaps national headquarters could consider t his On the subj ect of the desirability of so many small units in restricted urban areas, perhaps my thoughts smack of heresy to some of our more 'diehard' members, who probably remember that X Divisi<m was formed because someone feU out with the old superintemdent, or the sergeant of A Division and so on. But that was twenty, thirty or fifty years ago. Do we have to live in the past? Many divisions are often hard-put to find
14
replaeements for retiring officers, a nd yet how many are reluctant to consider merging a division with a n eig!IiiJ. bour? I agree one often has a particular loyalty to a division, especially if one has grown up with it from cadet to superintendent, sharing its tri umphs a nd disas ters, but where does loyalty begin and end? Or is it perhaps that national headquarte rs only measures the success of the movement by the number of its divisions?
Because of the multiplicity of corps area staffs, there is often a lack of knowledge at divisional level of even ts within the co unty an d of training facilities. Agreed that such things as county orders or newsletters can inform on som e topics, and perhaps some counties already adopt other methods but it seems to me to be needful for a com bined annual general meeting of all divisions, to supplement the usual separate corps or area meetings.
At this sort of meeting , or perhaps symposium would be the better word, officers might b e able to dis c uss specific topics, not just be lectured at by staffs on some point of regulations I know we have the annual Nottingham conference, where study groups discuss a subject and present their findings, and at question time, can pose their questions to national headquarters staff, and a jolly good time is had by all ; but I question whether anything really concrete has emerged from 'Nottingham' other than the knowledge gained by each delegate that other divisions have similar problems but not necessarily the same answers.
Where is the leadership from the top?
Does national headquarters really take notice of what is going on? I'm sorry if this sounds hypocritical, but I really care about this organisation of our's, a nd I know I am not alone in these thoughts . J oint administration may possibly be the answer to some of our problems, as is evident by the success of combined ambulance and nursing divisions. Could this system be extended?
Equipment and Training: What is our function? When the civil defence organisation was disbanded, and its eq uipment returned to Home Office stores, the Brigade was supposed to take over some of its functions. Many counties, areas, or corps have, in varying degrees, their own set-up, but if my experience is common, we go it alone. There is no direction from the top, and the local Authority does not always help, although they will of course welcome our services when necessary. Vast quantities of good material now lie idle in Home Office stores which we could have put to goom use in training. Perhaps the recent change of Gover nment may see a resmrrecti.on civil ciefenee in a limited form, but instead of recruiting a new CD membe lis hip, should not the Commissioner-in-Chief persuade, or attempt to persuade, the Home Office to
utilise the organisaticms which already exist, ourselves and BRCS. Perhaps t1l.[S h as already b een done; if so, I beg forgiveness. Perhaps it might be possible for the Review to incorporate more a dvi ce on training, rather than the few questions and answers which do appear in the magazine Many divisions already incorporate such things as mountain rescue in their programme; illustrat ed articles on this subject and others dealing with casualties in motor vehicles perhaps, would be bene ficia l to us all. The first-aid manual alone does not really offer all that we need to vary our training programmes.
One thing which ca uses me some concern in SJA is the question of communication facilities. How many divisional h eadquarters are even on the telephone? Certainly telephone rentals are expe nsive, but is it now a luxury ? A 2 1/2p telephone call is cheaper than paying mileage allowance (if h e claims itI) to a 'call out' officer travelling to each division in turn for a possible emergency , or even to settle some duty details . It is ce rtainly faster; so is radio , or radio paging, which may be beyond the reach of most. Possibly one answer would be for counties, and if necessary nati onal headq uarters, to assist with the financing of telephone installations at divisions Let us not forget that divisions finance counties, etc, by their annual allocations, and whilst divisions submit BF 1 2s to county ', below county lev el we have no real knowledge of what happens to this money.
Perhaps it would be fair to all if a b a lance sheet of Brigade finance was published, possibly in the Review Please do not think I am maligning anyone here by saying that. In any case, if finance for such things as telephones or other equipment is lacking , it must be found. And this is often best achieved by thinking big, rather than by jumble sales and raffles. If we can persuade local organisations or carnival co mmit tees (as we in North Corps did last year) that our proj ect is a viable one, then we shall find that we can achieve more than by going it alone. Through the local carniva l committees Lions Club , etc, and a ca det walk, we raised over £2,500 in l ess than six months for the purchase of a new am bulance The local organisations that helped were delighted, and so were we. Perhaps the appointment at county level of a full-time, paid fund raiser is noW necessary Think Big ; we can't lose. These then are some of my thoughts, and perhaps some of yours too. But let us not be deluded into thinking that they are the complete and only answers to oUI pro b 1ems. If t his article starts a chain-reaction of criticism, comment, and dare I say it, agreement ano action , it will have served its purpose. We are all 'J ohnnies'. We were once pioneers.
Let us keep as our aim to be THE FIRST and BEST AlDERS.
GLAMORGANSHIRE'S Loughor
Estuary, the scene of so many drowning fatalities, n ow has an inshore rescue boat
The boat belongs to the St. John Ambulance Brigade , and its crew of young people were recruited by Mr. Wilf Pitman divisional superintendent of the Loughor ambu l ance division.
Through Mr. Pitman's efforts over the la st 18 months, enough cash has been raised to purchase a boat and motor , and the n e c e ssary first -aid and rescue equipment needed f or res c ue work.
The rescue boat has been on ca ll in the estuary since April 9, but the official l aunchi ng ceremony was in May.
In the first month the boat was in operation the team rescued several crews from capsized dinghies and boats with engine trouble.
The team members have been effic iently trained in first-aid and life-saving, and -recently gained the bronze medallion of the Royal Life Saving Society
Mr. Pitman's next objective wil l be to raise funds to purchase a two -w ay radio for the rescue boat. Thi s will e nable team members on patrol duty to keep in touch with the man on watch duty with binoculars..
Hom e a rid dry first aid is available and a mishap that could have
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations. Although readers may sign published letters with a pen-name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
MERGER
from Mrs. A. Sheehan, divisional superintendent
I was interested to read in the March issue General Memodndum No.8 regarding the merger of the Brigade and Association and I would like to make the following comments:
First of all, although it is fitting to print such important reports on topics such as the merger in The Review, I would think it more important to keep the membership informed on a wider basis by means of circularising divisional superintendents.
With all due respect to those concerned with The Review, this magazine has a small circulation and I would consider it more appropriate to send reports of the stages of the merger when copies of Brigade Orders are sent out. This would give every member, officer/superiNtendent the chance to air his or her view on the matter and to be kept fully informed on what is happening at the top. Have members had the chance to read General Memoranda Nos. 1-7 and will they have the chance to read Nos. 9 onwards?
However, I am pleased to read that the Commander welcomes our views and that he does 'find our ideas and opinions most helpful'. But will our views - the members voices - be heard loud enough? I am referring not only to our opinions on the stages of the merger, but Olil all kinds of brigade matters which, as the song says, need 'to go in a melting pot, stirred for a hundred years or more' and never to come out again! Time and time again members, officers and cadets have screamed out on all kinds of matters concerned with Brigade policy, but once their cries have passed through Area Staff the echoes die away in the committees from whom we hear very little. All too often, by the time our voices have reached the top, the topic in question is old wood and decisions have already been reached.
Having said all this, here are my views on the way the merger is pro gressing:
First, I would like more information about the so-called centres of operation. It appears that, so far as London is concerned, these centres have begun to operate mainly to organize the arrangements for Association examinations. Does the Chief Commander envisage a wider use of these centres? I quote the fourth paragraph:
'A unified organisation will help in establishing an effective county administration and in presenting a common front that will greatly assist an economic and efficient use of resources in personnel, buildings and equipment, as well as with public relations and with fund-raising.'
Can we have a fuller explanation of how this will work?
I quote also from the sixth paragraph under tlh.e heading 'Timing':
'I do not intend to lay down a date for merging at local levels as there is infinite variation in the situation in different places. I must, therefore, leave it to Commanders SJA to examine and decide what best to do at each local level.'
There seems to be no explanation of what is meant by the word 'local'. Is this referring to the present areas as we know them, or is it envisaged that areas will be further split perhaps into Boroughs once the Maud Report has been finalised?
There is a suggestion of a 'single con trolling authority'. Will this 'authority' be a person in the form of the present area commissioners, or is it intended that this authority be similar to the present set up of area commissioners, area superintendents and area staff officers dealing with particular functions. It is certainly not at all clear as to how this local merger is going to work.
Under the heading of 'Funds' I see there is a suggestion that there should be unification and consolidation of funds. In the next paragraph the report states that each operational unit (division?) will require its own money for the day to day running and that there is no intention of confiscating money which the division has worke-d hard to raise. How then, is it proposed to have consolidation of funds? Is this to be in the form of a contribution from each division to the new 'centre/controlling authority' on a per capita basis similar to the system now in force?
I envisage there will be strong opposition to merged funds if it is intended that each division will have to approach a controlling authority before being able to purchase equipment or uniforms. Divisions must have freedom to buy their own equipment and to raise their own fund. I appreciate fund raising is hard work, I know only too well, but what satisfaction one gets when one is able to buy such equipment as a projector and to know that you, the division, have all worked for that piece of equipment and that it is your own.
Of course, pooled equipment can have certain advantages for divisions with no funds and who often make no efforts to raise their own funds; but who is going to buy the pooled equipment? Will it be the divisions with a sound financial basis paying a certain percentage of their hard earned money towards the centre's account?
I quote 'the policy should be to ensure that units receive the benefit of sound investment and that the best use is made of available capital.' Whose money, capital, is being invested?
I am sure I am not alone in asking may we please be kept fully informed of progress and asked for our views before final decisions are taken. The Girl Guides Association spent some three to four years discussing their new policies and reorganisation and throughout this time each unit was kept fully informed at regular !intervals of progress and questionnaires weFe continually sen tout to the commissioners asking them to circulate their local units to find out the members views. The questionnaires were then returned to Headquarters and ideas, new policies, comments, criticisms were collated from them. If this can be done in an organisation whose membership is far in excess of ours , wny
cannot St. John do the same?
Are you really going to give us, the members, a chance to speak out, not only on this current topic of the merger, but on all matters concerned with St. Johns? We have lots to say, believe me ; we are interested; we do want to know what is happening at the top; and we do want a chance for our voices to be heard immediately, not several months too late when hundreds of committees have chewed over our suggestions and thrown them overboard before reaching the Bridge.
Come on the rest of you: you've remained silent too long. Let's show 'em we are not apathetic - swamp the editor with thousands of letters.
CN39 Bexley Division Anne Sheehan
GRAND PRIOR'S BADGE
from Ed. TorteU, corps superintendent I have alway s been very surprised th a t no citation is issued with the award of the Grand Prior's badge and no date is quoted when sending the badge to the recipient. This being the highest efficiency award for a cadet, should it not be accompanied by a proper printed and signed citation, as is done in the case of the Queen's Scout and Girl Guide badges and the Duke of Edinburgh awards , which in my opinion , are all equal to the Grand Prior's Badge as regards efficiency and utility? This procedure should start right away and possibly be back-dated as from January 1971. The opinion of other Brigade members is solicited.
Sliema, Malta Edward Tortell
from F. J. Clayton, divisional superintendent
May I say how much I enjoy the new style Review? It is a great improvement on the old one. Long may you keep it up. Your recent correspondence on teachers and teaching intrigued me; I am an experienced teacher and divisional superintenden t who has taught first-aid to all sorts of people for many years I think the disappointed teacher and the class
secretary correspondents are both wrong.
What does it matter if we are not asked to do that for which we have been trained? Or if we think not enough school teachers join the St. John's? The movement is what matters; and ours is primarily a Christian movement ; where is our Christian charity and humble love of our neighbours?
In my opinion if one is very keen on a subject and has studied and practised it, the teaching of it becomes quite easy. The secret of teaching is to be interesting and keep it short.
Gt. Yarmouth F. J. Clayton
from Dr. A. Oakley John, county surgeon Life is hard! I have read with great interest the articles on first-aid competitions in the May Review and in humility I try to be a competent judge. Perhaps I know even better than your contributors the inadequacies of judges and the pitfalls which are strewn in our path.
I agree entirely with Mr. White's points I - 3, but would plead for some latitude in the marking sheet. The team cannot read the judge's mind as he makes up the test, and should the team arrive at the correct conclusion by a path which differs from the one the judge had in mind the marking sheet should be flexible enough for them to receive credit for it.
It is impossible for a judge to win! Unless the competition is held on a river bank or on a race-course tests have to be simulated, and sometimes I have been fortunate to have been presented with a beautiful scene mocked up by a team of hardworking enthusiastic amateurs. I have held a competition in an electricity sub-station (a steam-pipe burst near the roof and the casualty brought down in a Neil-Robertson stretcher, by one team head downwards) and this was excellent, but usually we have to do without this realism. It is not enough for a team to know their book parrot-fashion. Real first-aid consists of using initiative in a situation where there is tension, and a static scene does not lend itself readily to this.
I certainly accept many of the criticisms (some of which are not under the judge's control) and the number of times have begged for a 'dummy run' must be legion, but have rarely been able to obtain this 1 give the team a card which tells them not to chatter unnecessarily but to comment on anything I (as judge) cannot learn without being told. For example, do not wish them to say 'I am examining the casualty's ankle' when 1 can see that for myself but after taking the pulse properly the first-aider announces it is (say) 70, I will say, 'Good, call it 90', but he should not ask me anything he can find out for himself.
I am well aware that every mark or comment on the sheet is argued about for months afterwards (not merely on the journey home) and this makes the responsibility of judging all the greater. 1 can only hope that having read the articles I may be able to judge that little bit more efficiently.
Southampton A. Oakley John
from Danny Heany, ambulance member
1 have just finished reading the Review June 1971 and feel compelled to congratulate you on the best edition yet. It was very enjoyable reading with a few very good informative articles.
The first page Comment was interesting and set me thinking. Firstly, please let me point out that although a road accident should be reported within 24 hours, it is preferable to inform the police immediately, as this may avoid complications (legal) resulting from any inaccuracy in the report. This, as was stated in the Comment, is only applicable to an accident involving personal injuries
Mr. Adams mentions in the 4th paragraph that a first-aider would only be liable for a secondary injury caused to a casualty if he were 'grossly negligent', 1 would like to enquire exactly how he defines the aforementioned term?
Re: Readers Views, 1 very much like the idea of a first-aid league. 1 wonder if Mr. Phelps could furnish me with a copy of the rules of the league, as I would like to see its application more widespread especially with the number of first-aid teams around the London District of which I am a member.
1 also agree with the idea proposed by Mrs. Campbell that a newer (OT indeed a supp1ement) chapter is needed in the Manuals for the coloured population (it would be very difficult to make a normal diagnosis of shock, for instance, in one of our coloured brothers).
Just one more comment: I wonder if Mr. Potter would care to make his crosswords more a pplicabl e to the s ubject of first-aid than to the subject of medicine?
4 Wanstead Pa rk Rd, !llord, Essex Danny Heany
'OLD BUSES'
from M. Newbold, divisional officer
1 was indeed intere sted to read the letter from Ambulan ce Member Terry M. Wing in May Review, and would agree with th e editorial comment on old ambulances.
May I pass one comment to Mr. Wing. If I was at a road traffi c accident or other incident and was offered s uitab e tra n sport for my patient to hospital I certainly would not worry about the age of any a mbulance that happen ed to be available.
Incidentally I am attac hed to Kingston-Upon-Thames Division London Dis trict , a nd this division works with the London Ambulance Service and provides one accident vehicl e a nd crew each week-day night and every week-end under direct control of the L.A.S. Central Emergency Control, so our operational vehicles have to be of the highest possible stan da rds, both mechanical and equipment.
Below is a photograph of our new Ford transit ambulance with the latest Lomas body and fully automatic transmission w hi ch was recently co mmissioned. I hope this s the modern pubLicity that Mr. Wing wants.
Just a not e in r e ply to Ian M. Wilson's letter rega rding boiler suits. At a re cent joint exercise with the Ambulance Authority we were asked to use any co lour but white as this is apparently reserved for doctors an d se nior medical officers at major emergencies, and they almost insisted on members wearing the white plastic safe ty h el mets during the exercise. With which I agree!
West Molesey, Surrey M. Newbold
I<ingston upon Thames Division's n ew ambulance. See letter 'OLD BUSES'. (Photo M Newbold, 0 / 0)
FIRST AID (1970) (Colour 33 mins.)
Distributed by: Services Kinema Corporation, Chalfont Grove, Gerrards Cross, Bucks.
Produced by: Ministry of Defence (Army)
This film h as been design e d to assist instruction' by visually presenting se ver a l si tuations in which wounds, illne ss, and injuries occur and showing the prope r diagnosi s and applications of correct first-aid in each case and according to the circumstances
The panel took note that th is film was produced with a Service audience in mind but from the film view-point found its flashback technique and general flippant air unamusing if not irritating Nonetheless, from the first-aid view -point this is a very good film ind ee d although fo r its length (33 mins.) perhaps mor e injuri es and first-aid techniques might b e expected.
On the credit side it is accurate, up-to-date and pays due attention to priorities. The incidents within the film are all well portrayed a nd little fault can be found with treatments displayed Wi t h the dearth of su itab le first-aid films thi s production has great i mportan ce to all engaged in teaching first -aid.
This film co uld be screened to all first-aid classes to cadets, Boy Sco uts and such bodies and also could be shown to the general public.
A NEW LEASE OF LI FE (1966) (Black & White 20 mins.)
Distributed by: Central Film Library, Bromyard Avenue, London, W.3
Sponsor: The then Ministry of Labour
The work of the Ministry of Labour's Industrial R e habilitation Unit for typical case histories of a steel erec tor with an injured leg , a clerk rec overing from a mental breakdown , a young asthma tic with a history of instability, and a girl secretary paral ysed through a mot o r acc ident are followed through a 6-12 week co ur se at a unit where the i ndividuals have been sent for treatm e n t and expert occupational assessment.
The panel considered this film dated and of only minor interest to those other than closely occupied with the work of the Rehabilitation Unit.
Of minor interest to general audiences.
ONLY ONE IN THIRTY (1968) (Colour 11 mins.l
Distributed by: Central Film Library, Bromyard Avenue, London W.3
Produced by: Helen Wiggins
This film shows the effo rts of a voluntary worker to obtain blood donors - a hole in the heart operation e mphasizes the impo rta n ce of the scheme.
The panel considered this innocuous little film well suited to its intended audience i.e. the general public It is pleasant and has the virtue of brevity.
Of general inter es t as a programme 'filler'.
CIRCULATION OF THE BLOOD (1949) {Colour 17 mins.l
Distributed by: Rank Film Library, P.O. Box 70, Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex
Produced by: Rank Organization
A study mainly in animated diagram s of the systemic and pulmonary circulation of the blood in t he human body , show ing the struc t ur e and functions of he a rt , lungs arteries , veins and capillary network. The route of the blood the exchange of oxygen and ca rbon dioxide in the ai r sacs of the lungs and in t he cells of the body are shown in detail.
The p anel considered th is a very good production that iJlustrates diagrammatically the circulation of the blood; it is clea r and accurate a lthough perhaps a shade complicated for first-aid audien ces. Time has not diminished this film
This film will augment lectur es on circ ul ation; s uitable for advanced first-aiders, students both nursing and medical.
The St. John Ambulance Film Appraisal Panel which meets fortnightly at Headquarters, consists of doctors, first aiders and visual aid experts who offer their servi ces for tl:is important aspect of visual aids. It is intended to publish monthly reviews of those 16mm. films recommended by the pa!:el.
OUR WAY (1964) (Colour30mins.)
Distrjbuted by: Parke, Davis & Company, Staines Road, Hounslow, Middlesex
Produced by: Parke, Davis & Company
This film endeavours to interest young people in careers in the medical profession or in pharmacy It shows problems faced by a newly qualified doctor in achieving acceptance
The panel considered this film beautifully produced from the point of film-making but one that fails to convey its message. The American dialogue and mores are so alien to ours that the film has little value in this country.
Might be usable for school children.
OF THE SOUL (1960) ( C o l our 62 mins.)
Distributed by: Fact & Faith Films, Falcon Court, 32 Fleet Street, London E C.4
Produced by: Moody Institute of Science
Dr. Moon introduces the film by saying that for some years the laboratory of the Moody Institute of Science has been engaged on a most fascinating investigation -a study of the human senses. There are traditionally five senses aptly called "the windows" through which the living soul looks out upon the material universe. These are sight, hearing , taste, smell and touch.
The panel considered this an outstanding film of absorbing interest. It is in two parts and Part I is of specific interest to first-aiders but the whole film with its novel and welcome approach to evangelism is more than an exhibition - it is a spiritual experience.
Recommended for universal exhibition.
ACCIDENTS DON'T HAPPEN - EARLY HANDLING OF SPINAL INJURIES (Black & White 17 mins )
Distributed by: Central Film Library, Bromyard Avenue, London W.3
Produced by: Canadian Federal Department of Labour
The correct methods of first-aid for back injuries are demonstrated and emphasis laid on further injury which may result from incorrect handling procedure.
The panel was impressed with this film - it is straight forward, thorough and leaves a lasting impression; naturally the film techniques appear old fashioned and development slow but it is still a valuable film However , its nomenclature is faulty - it is not a n accident prevention but a first-aid film.
Audience: Of great interest to all first-aiders.
ACCIDENTS DON'T HAPPEN (1955) (Black & White 7 mins.)
Distributed by: Rank Film Library, P.O. Box 70, Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex
Produced by: Smith and Nephew Ltd.
'Mr. Pastry' in the home demonstrates hazards and pitfalls in the accident prevention field.
This 16 year old film is old fashioned in concept and techniq ue but still has value in spreading the gospel of accident prevention and first-aid knowledge
Audience : Universal as a 'filler' especially to juvenile audiences.
MOUTH TO MOUTH METHOD OF ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION (1961) (Black & White 10 mins )
Distributed by: Rank Film Library P.O. Box 70, Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex
Produced by: Documentary Films of Norway
The application of the mouth to mouth method of artificial respiration to typical accidents and diagrammatic explanation of how it works.
The panel cons idered this a fair film that has been superseded by more modern productions; demonstration of the method upon live patients as shewn in this film is not taught by St. John. This obsolescent film is not recommended for viewing.
Festival of St. John
THE ANNUAL FESTIVAL was held this year on June 25 in Glasgow. In the morning the Commemoration Service took place in the choir of Glasgow Cathedral, the only major secular church in Scotland to retain its medieval rood screen. It was marked a most moving and inspiring sermon on the themes of reverence and service, delivered by the Prelate, The Very Revd. Dr. Nevile Davidson. The service was followed by luncheon given for the Chapter in the City Chambers by the Lord Provost of Glasgow, Sit' Donald Liddle. The General Assembly was held in the afternoon and at it the following persons were invested
AS COMMANDERS (BROTHERS)
Robert Clement Wilson (from Officer)
Ranald Ker Cochrane, BL, WS, (from Officer) Sir Donald Ross Liddle, LL, JP GCQrge Adolf Theurer
William Ferguson Anderson, OBE, MD, FRCP
AS COMMANDERS (SISTERS)
Beatrice Mary June Gordon , The Countess of Haddo, LLD, FRCM, GRSM, ARCMM, (from Officer)
Grace Thomson, Mrs. Robertson (from Officer)
AS OFFICERS (BROTHERS)
Colenel Patrick Muirhead Thomas, DSO, TD, MA,CE
Ronald Alexander Williamson (from Se rv ing Brother)
The Reverend Thomas Crichton, MA , (Sub -Chaplain) (from Serving Brother) Geerge Harris (from Serving Brother)
70 District/County superintendents from all <llver Wales attended the conference at Llandrindod Wells on May 6 and were given a very warm welcome by Lady Traherne, Chief Superintendent for Wales, who then introduced the Guest Speaker, Mrs. M. Boothman , Staff Officer to the Superintendent-in-Chief.
Mrs. Boothman gave a most interesting talk wl1ich was enjoyed by everyone, eNtitled 'Nursing without Tears'.
Lunch was followed by a session entitled 'Putting Pep into Practice', in which members of the course took part.
The announcement of the retirement of Lady Traherne as Chief Superintendent for Wales was received with reluctance, and the Chief Commissioner during his conclusioNs announced that Mrs. Crawshay was to be appointed Chief Superintendent and Mrs. Pennant, Deputy Chief Superintendent for Wales.
A most successful and enjoyable Nursing Officers Conference was also held at Llandrindod Wells on May 15.
An introduction to the course was given by Mrs. D. R. B. Mathias, OStJ, SRN, Chief
AS SERVI NG SISTERS
Valerie Shand, Mrs. Dumbreck
Katherime , Mrs. Robertson
Jessie Dougall, Mrs. Loughbridge
Ryner Annie, Mrs. Hendry
Rhona Mary, Mrs. Gilmour
Anne, Mrs. Sawers
David Rob ert Sim, MB, CHB
Ronald John Primrose Cowan, ERD, BSC, CENG, FICE, MIPHE
Colonel James Frances Kerr Grieve, TD, BSC, MB, CHB
James Gerald Warner, MA, FSASCOT
Ryrie James Erskine Orr , OBE
AS OFFICERS (SISTERS)
Margaret Ann Masson, Miss Christie (from Serving Sister)
Christina McGowan Mrs. Weir (from Serving Sister)
Agnes Mary , Miss Leonard (from Serving Sister)
Louisa Harris, Mrs. Hickman (from Serving Sister)
Gertrude Florence, Miss Grari.t (from Serving Sister)
Joy celyn Francise, Mrs. Allison (from Serving Sister)
Yvonne Menna, Mrs. Leggat Smith, BA, MA, (from Serving Sister)
Joan Kennedy , Mrs. Sutherland, MB, CHB, (from Serving Sister)
Anne Betty Hirst, Mrs. Bla ck (from Serving Sister)
Helen Davidson , Mrs. Gammie, MB, CHB
Margaret Helen de Carteret, Mrs. Davidson
AS SERVING BROTHERS
Walter Underwood, FRIBA, FRIAS
Peter Stewart MacCallum
Arthur Owen Hazel
Colonel Seton Graeme Dickson, DL , JP
Sheriff Thomas Muir Wilson, OBE
John Alan MacFarlane, MB, CHB, FRCS
John Ross Anderson, CENG, FIPRODE, MLBE
David Watson Law, JP
Archibald Ru sse ll
William Fyfe Hendrie , MA
William Gordon
Llanelli Rotory Club president hands over a cheque for £ 100 for a n outboard engi ne for the Ferryside sea rescue unit to SJA's Assistant Commissioner Carmarthenshire Mr. A. W. H@lloway
Nursing Officer for Wales, who welcomed the guest speaker Dame Barbara Cozens, DBE, RRC, SRN, Chief Nursing Officer, St. John Ambulance who talked on the Role of the Nursing Division - Today and Tomorrow.
After lunch Mrs Mathias welcomed Mr. M. D. Enoch, MRCS, LRCP , DPM , consultant psychiatrist and principal tutor for Birmingham University, who gave an inspiriNg address on the 'Hazards @f Psychiatry'.
The annual conference of District/County cadet officers was held at Newtown during May when a good representative number gathered.
On the Saturday afternoon a visit was made to the Priory 's Ou t door Pursuit Centre at
Eliz abet h Scott Blair, Mrs. Wilson
Isabella Walker, Mrs. Jones
Georgina Jessie, Miss Graham, MBE , AFICD
Kathleen Margaret, Mrs. Maxwell, MBE
Margaret Euphemia Bremner, Miss Carrick
Margaret Jami eson, Mrs. Vaughan
Helen Fryer Young, Mrs. Pearson
Among these particular note should be taken of the investing by the Prior of his wife, Lady Haddo, Sir Donald Liddle and Mrs Robertson as Commanders. Sir Donald as Lord Provost of Glasgow has always shown great kindness to OUr Order, never more so than now when he is preoccupied with the worries that have resulted from the liquidation of Upper Clyde Shipyards and all the consequences of this for h is city Mrs. Robertson was accorded an ovation as she received some recognition for her great services to the Order, which was reported last month.
The ceremony of investiture ended with the placing of the mantle of Priory Secretary on t h e sho ulders of Mr. William Grahame, Mrs. Robertson's successor. For the past twenty-five years, ever since its foundation, Mr. Grahame has been the power behind the massive organisation of the Edinburgh Festival, being secretary and administrative manager.
In the evening 162 members of the Order from all parts of Scotland sat dow n to dinner in the Trades House under the presidency of Lord Haddo. After the toasts a presentation was made to Mrs. Robertson by the Chancellor.
J.R-S
st. J ohn in Adelaide , South Australia, have made extensive use of shop window displays for publicity since 1956 The two photographs (right) show two of the displays. The 1966 Appeal in Qantas Airways window aroused tremendous interest as Grand Priory were kind enough to Joan a breast plate and other relics of the Order, which were flown out from England by Qan tas
St. John of South Australia have permanent display boards (made of peg board) with e ve ry it e m of equipment attached to th e m with name tags relating to 'Road Safety Week ', 'Industrial Safety Promotion,' etc, for use in these ex hi bitions.
Launched recently by a bro a dcast on Radio Malay sia, St. John Ambulance has now been started in Sarawak , mainly by the efforts of Mr. Ang Lai Soon, who is Presid e nt of the Sarawak branch of the Lepro sy Re sea rch Association and Presid e nt of th e Cheshire Homes. About 100 boys and girls hav e been recruited; first -a id courses for boy s started on June 8; nur si ng co urses will s tart as soon as manuals arrive fro m Kual a Lumpur.
Mr. An g Lai Soon has been appointed acting Commissioner; Dr. S. K. Mukerjie , Deputy Dir ector of the Medical Departm e nt in Sarawak, is the Assistant Pri ncip a l Surgeon.
We l come, SJA Sarawak!
KENYA
Kenya S t. John lost a frie nd of many years during February in the death of Brigadi er -G e n era l Sir Godfrey Rhodes , CB CBE, DSO, Kt. St. John (known to hi s many friends everywhere as 'Jimmy').
Machynlleth, when a demonstration of outdoor activities was carried out by the Machynll eth Cadet Division under the instru c tion of Div. Supt. W. 1. Rees, Aberystwyth Major Accident Unit. Thi s included lightweight ca mping map reading , and hill rescue.
Plans for a Celebration Camp for 1972 were discussed when a representative for an Adventure Holiday Company outlined a plan which was being offered to the Brigade in Wales.
On Sunday, the Chief Officer of Cadets for Wales , Mrs. 1. D. Smith, CStJ, JP , conducted an impre ssive Enro lment Ceremony of Cadets from Montgom er yshire.
Canada's Provin cial Commissioner , Mrs Irene Ross M c Pllai
F or the first tim e in the history of the S t. John Amb ul ance Brigade a woman has been appointed a Provincial Commissioner by the Duke of Gloucester the Grand Prior. '
Mrs. Ir e n e Ross McPhail (picture l eft), president of the Ottawa Feder a l District SJA Nursing Divisions, has been made a Provincial Commissioner of the Ottawa Federal District for St. John.
In making the appointment, the Grand Prior noted that it was the first time St. John had appointed a woman as provincial commissioner. He said that after reading Mrs McPhail's biography and noting h er outstanding recor d of service he w as entirely happy to approve the appointment. Mrs. McPhail has been act ive in many phases of St. John work and in various positions of responsibility since 1964. The recoh1mendation for the ap p oin tment paid tribute to Mrs. M c P hail 's extraordinary competence, initiative and devotion, and to the respect , confidence and affection she commands equally from the m a le, female and junior members of the Brigad e in th e Federal District in Canada.
Chan ce llor L H. Nicholson noted that not on l y was the honour to be shared by registered nurses, but by all the women in Canada. The Chancellor said it was a honour for Canada to lead the world in this kind of a ppointm e nt
any other p e r s on who wa s d es pe rate y s ic k. [n thanking "Joan B" for h e r t alk Mr s Norman Rail ing , pre s id e nt of t he Divi sion said she had se dom w i tn esse d a greater di s p lay of mora l co ur age. To h e p fe ll ow- suffe r e r s the speaker h a d s hown h e r gratitude for h er own cure by des c r i bin g the humiliating sy m ptom s of
KINGSTON- from Augusl 12 to 28 the ocal stor c of B e nt a U is h av in g a yo uth-in-a c tio n d sp lay in whi c h lo ca S JA divisions are taking part. The di sp la y will be in th e fo rm of s tati c tand s mann e d by m e mber s and dep c tin g ca d et and young adult activit es, includ ng photo , mod e ls, and other visual a id. Thi s will be one of th e a r ges t publicity di pl ays that th e ca det s in thi s a r ea hav e und e rtak en Members or fr ends are we lcomed t o look in on u s durin g th e ex hibition.
EAST HAM -A pl aq u e to th e memory of ambul a n ce m e mb e r Willi a m Moffat, SBSJ, BEM wa rece ntl y unv ei led by hi s w id ow in the Wan s t ead F ats fir t-a id po t of No. 15 Divi ion It wa s a t thi post hat Mr. Moffa sp e nt every Saturday during the football seaso n f rom 195 9 unti l his d ea th in 1969 Mr. Moffa t comp leted 60 yea r s active se rvi ce in t he Br igad e A member of th e Ord er , he was awa rd ed th
CLUES TO CROSSWORD No.8 (71) C ompiled by W A Potte r
ACROS$
1. Pr ess thr ee oz. f o r shingl es (6.6 ) 9. Ov er o n e h undr e d con f use d a t e with fi f t y in st ronghold (7) 10 It r e turn s and inco rr ect ly rea ds ve h em e nt sp eech es (7 ) 1 1. Und erga rm ent f or t h e ve r y y oung ( 5) 12. Wee ds produ cing vegeta bl e fro m nor t h ern E ur o p e ( 5) 13 A t e rmin atio n t o ge n era l a n aes th e t ic gi ve n for b ra ver y i n r a ys d e stroy i ng m ali g n an t gr ow th s ( 5 ) 16. T ake j o urn eys provid ed
b y real T.V (6) 17 Rapid ri de t aking o ut-p ati en t t o sec r etio n of liver (6 ) 18 At re ve r se d flo w of air in p arts of t h e h ea r t ( 5) 19. En gin e c ompon e n t lo st in post (6 ) 2 l. Grea t fea r of t e mp e r atur e lea ding to mi st ak e (6) 2 3. Comp ac t p a rt of ax is h as a p oi nt (5)
2 6 . Nothing in b ac k ward port for a bo d y of m e n ( 5 ) 28 . Sm all li ce ns e d hou se is fro nt part of th e p elvis (5 ) 29. Ea r ac h e (7 ) 3 0 T he small est vei n s (7) 31 . P as sage f o r femo r al vesse ls thro u gh thi gh l o ok s lik e wa t erway of th e c h ase ( 7 5 )
DOWN
2. Or gan s in a n a t o mi ca lly abn o rm a l p osi ti o n s ( 7 ) 3 Ri ce in th e hu sk fer Iri shm an (5 ) 4. Cle a rs mal f o r m a ti o n in whit e of t h e eye (6 ) 5. Op e ning of a tub e a li b o dy ca vit y (6 ) 6 . Major and min or mus cle s of t he sh o uld e r (5) 7 Co m munist group carryi ng o x yg e n ? (3.4) 8 Weak n ess of bon es du e to de f ic ie n cy of min era l salts (1 1 ) 9 Ta k e poison i t can t u pset fo r in a d e qu ate b owe l a ction (1 2) 13. E ngl a nd 's se cr et ory org a n (5) 14. Men ta l defective is ri ght i n m oo n (5) ] 5 An entr a n ce for p re ci o us st o n e ( 5 ) 2 0
Pump used in t re atm e nt o f drug o ve rd os ag e (7 ) 2 2 . G i rl u nd e r m ass age d evel o p s disease with a r as h (7 ) 24. Fo rmerl y f it t o breath e out (6) 2 5. Pr e panss hairy a re as for ope r ation ( 6 ) 2 7 HeatheN ha s a p a ng (5) 28 Tr amsfi x sod i um a u ricl e (5)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 7-71
ACP-{OSS
l. Capitulum ; 6 Lips ; 9. Nerve ; 10 Tri c u spid ; 11. Ho se; 12
Bra.in ; ]
Then a friend recommended Complan. And he got the nourishment he needed in a form that was easy to take. Complan provides the right kind of nourishment and is easy to digest even during illness.
When someone you know needs nutritional help, recommend Complan. Complan ".d, . ".
the food they can face during illness
The Roll of the Order of St. John, amended to include appointments up to May 1970, is available price £2 a copy from the Stores Dept. St. John's Gate, London, E.C.1. For your group? Nearly
THE JOURNAL OF ST JOHN
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F in als p .2
ia - and its treatmen t pA
Hel pl West Germ a ny 's re lief force p.6
Around and About by the Ed itor p.8
Th e Med ica l Problems of S pace F ight, by K. G. Ber gin p. 1 2
Visual Aides: Tapes and Slides p.15
Readers' Views p. 1 6
News fr om Scot land p. 19
Overseas News p.21
News f ro m th e Divi si on s p.22 September 1971
Prin cess Margaret, Vi ce- Pr es ident of St. John Ambulan ce, spen t th e afternoon at the Brigade Finals on Jul y 10. Thi s is what s
I AM SO PLEASED to b e here today at the Competition Finals. Thi s is my fir s t official visit to a Brigade event since I
Vi ce -P resi d e nt ea rlier this year, so o f co urse I feel ve ry much at home after my years as Commandant -in- Chief of he St. J ohn Cadets.
I look forward now to learning mor e about the wo r k of the adult divi sions, although I am s ure that I will have met and enro lled many of t h e ir m embers as ca det s. I think thi s se nse of continuity is ex tremely importan t to us all, and he l ps to create th e fa mily feeling that is such a special feature of the Brigad e Many thousands of peop e h ave started training at an ear ly age, in order to prepare themselves r ea ll y thorough l y for service to t he com munity They have continued this service as ad u lts and have helped to hand on both their expert knowledge and thei r tradition of work fo r others, to t hose who follow th em
We on l y hav e to look at the ac h ieve ments of the Brigade t hroughout the Commo nw ealth to see the prac t ica l effects of this tradibon. Everyo n e is fami li ar with the sight of St J ohn Ambulance men and women on duty at public events. P erhaps less well known , though just as important , is t he work done for the sick, both in hospitals an d in their homes.
T he m ore wide y the basic principles of first -aid are known, the more people will be saved from de a th or serious injury and I think we can all be proud of the record of th e Association and Br igade in this fi el d.
While it is important that as man y people as possible sho uld be taught what to do, and perhaps eve n more urgently , what not t o do in an eme rg e n cy, there will always be a need for those with the r ea ll y high leve l of competence which you hav e acquired as members of the Brigad e.
On e of t h e most noteworthy features of St. John s has a l ways b een its insistence on high standards. When caring for human life, only the be st is goo d enough, and 1 have been most impr essed by the t r u ly professiona att itu de of the compe titors I have watched to d ay. The who le purpose of t h ese co n tests is not simply to m easure one t ea m against another, but to raise the general l evel of knowledge and skill throughout the co untry
EDITOR : FR,I\NK DR ISCOL L, 26 Pembroke Gardens, Lo ndon, W. 8. (0 1-6038512)
ADVERTISEMENTS : T. G. Scott & Son Ltd.
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FooG! for t hought 14-year-old Elizabet h Kel ly of Wallasey Nursing Cadet Divi sion , who wants to be a doctor, really 'tak ing -in" some advi ce from a judge at the No rth We st Reg ion SJA Final s he ld at Kendal recently (Pho t o R Alle n , Crewe)
It is a great achievement to reach the Brigade Finals , for t here is i ntens e co mpetition in the pre limi nary rounds , and I would like to cong r at u la te yo u all , and I ook forward to presenting the winners with the i r well - earned trophies. The tests were certainly all too rea listi c I Th e organizers must be congratu l ated on devising s u ch conv in c ing situations, which provide a ge nuin e test of the competitiors' abi lit y to d eal wit h an ac tual incident.
I know th a t you wi ll r eturn to your divisions ready t o put the va lu able experience yo u have gained in these co m petitions t o the b est possible use 'For the Servi ce of Mankind '.
THE TREATMENT OF ASPHYXIA will in many cases consist of the administration of oxygen. We will therefore try to sort out particularly from the point of view of the first-aider , when uxygen will be life saving when it will be useful, when it may be of some help, and when it will do no good at a ll.
A dis Gussion of oxygen lack requires some elementary knowledge of the meaning of the partial pressure of oxygcm. At sea level the atmospheric pressure is about 760 mm of mercury. A fifth of the air consists of oxygen and therefore about one fifth of this pressure is the partial pressure of oxygen. A m i!ll or must be made for the vapour of water and in moist atmospheric air the partial pressure of oxygen (usually written P02) is about 150 mm of mercury.
Let us consider a pilot in an aeroplane which is slowly gaining height. The atmospheric pressure will decrease as the aeroplane rises and so will the P02. At about 10 , 000 ft this partial preSSUlie will drop to 100 mm. A resting man functions quite well when the P02 is between 100 aftd 150 mm; this pilot will not be , at present, suffering any oxygen lack. Suppose the plane goes higher and the P02 falls below 100 mm , oxygen lack w ill occur leading to blurring of consciousness and other symptoms. This caft quite easily be avoided by increasing the percentage of oxygen in the atmoswhel'e breathed; if this is pushed up from usual 21 % to say double this amount the partial pressure will double and once again the pilot will have all the oxygen he needs. Eventually at 40,000 ft. eveft bEeathing pure oxygen will not proyide enough and it would only be possible to fly at greater heights using a pressmised cabin.
It is not necessary to go up in an aeroplane to develop this degree of oxygen lack The same can occur down a coal mine where in an unused, and therefore unventilated, district the oxygen level can fall well below its usual 21 %. Whatever the circumstances oxygen lack will develop when the partial pressure falls below about 100 mm of mercury.
At sea level breathing fresh air, a healthy person produces a 97% saturation of his red blood cells with oxygen. If the healthy person at sea level were to 4
The St. John Ambulance Medical Conference held at Nottingham University during April was honour ed by this lec ture give n by Dr. T. D. Spencer, LRCP , MRCS MB, BS, DPH , MD, Assistant Chief Medical Officer, National Coal Board.
brea the pure oxygen instead, this obviously could not have more than a marginal effect on the saturation of the red blood cells. Pure oxygen breathed for a short time will produ ce no effects a t a ll. This does not mean that pure oxygen is always harmless Under certain circumstances it can act as a poison. After 6 to 12 hours of breathing 100% oxygen at sea level a m an will develop a pain behind his sternum, soreness, coughing, sore throat and eventu a lly brocho-pneumonia
In the 1950's it was discovered t hat 100% oxygen given to premature babies gave what is now the well known condition of retrolental fibroplasia, which c ould be a cause of permanen t blindness. Oxygen in ordinary air is dangerous at pressures of more than 2 atmospheres; it causes acute poisoning of the central nervous system with convulsions. This will happen to anybody who descend s to a depth of more than 32 ft. breathing ordinary air.
Y GU may remember a recent ' dry dive' to a depth equivalent to several hundr ed feet of water where the divers breathed 1% oxygen and 99% helium. T h e total pressure was so high that the partial pressure of the small a mount of oxygen was about 150 mm of mercury a nd was, therefore, just right.
AlthlOUgh these dang er s from pure oxygen do exist they are not going to b e of more than theoretical inter es t to the first-aider. A h ea lthy person ca n breathe pure oxygen for an hour or two without coming to any harm and oxygen at a P02 of less than twice the normal is not dangerous at all.
We mu st not leav e the subject of t h e mangers of oxygen wi t hout mentioning what is p e rhaps the most important one. In an atmosphere rich in oxygen, fire will spread with lightening rapidity and it can be caused even by a static spark; oxygen
tents ca n be dangerous things.
Mention must be made of the carbon dioxide in b lo od which has a partial pressure in the same way as the oxygen has. This is usually close to 40 mm of mercury; if it rises higher than this we would take deep breaths to decrease the amount of carbo n dioxide in our blood. If it falls below this figure we breathe more quietly until it returns to normal.
Under w hat conditions will a person suffer from a l ack of oxygen? These can be given under 5 main headings:
Not enough oxygen in the air
This cause has already been discussed. It can occur wit h aircraft pilots and mountaineers because the atmospheric pressure and, therefore the partial pressure of oxygen decreases the higher up you go It ca n a lso occur in the unventilated parts of mines. The treatment is easy - give oxygen.
Air is not getting into the lungs
All first-aiders will know that there are two main reasons why although air is plentiful it does not reach the lungs. The first is obstruction of air passages as in hanging, strangulation , compression of the chest, laryngial spasm and drowning. The second is interference with regular breathing because the diaphragm or the chest muscles are not working properly ; this can occur in such condi tion as electric shock, epilepsy, tetanus or poisoning with barbiturates or morphia.
In these conditions it will be no use enric hing the atmosphere to be breathed with oxygen unless it is also possible to get the enriched atmosphere into the lung s. The treatment for the conditions m entioned is to remove the cause and to give artificial respiration.
Positive pressure resuscitation, which will usually be by the mouth to mouth method , cannot be carried out at the same time as oxyge n is being given. Where ox y gen is available, therefore, the first-aider would h ave the choice of providing oxygen to somebody who would not breathe it into his lungs or giving mouth to mouth resuscitation. T he cho ice in such a case should always be fiO T ilesusc it ation
I nterference with diffusion of oxygen into the blood
Once the oxygen reaches the alveoli it
must diffuse through into the blood. Even although there is quite sufficient air a person may suffer severely from a lack of oxygen if there is anything interfering with its diffusion. There are a number of condittions which can interfere with diffusion but from the first-aid point of view the important one is pulmonary oedema ; this is a condition liable to follow the inhalation of irritant gases or a flame ; it is particularly likely to occur during recovery from drowning. There is a large increase of secretion by the lungs ; the symptoms are extreme breathlessness , pain in the c hest and spitting out of large quantitie s of froth often blood-stained. It is liable to lead to los s of conscio u sness and death. Here the first-aid treatment of choice is to give oxygen.
Defects in the blood supply to the lungs
If a patient has severe anaemia there is not enough blood going to the lung s and therefore there is a lack of oxygen in the tissues because not enough is being taken there. Imagine a number of people trying to put out a fire by passing buckets from hand to hand from a fast running tap , there would sti ll not be enough water quenching the fire if the numb er of buckets was too few. Each red blood cell is receiving a full supply of oxygen from the lungs, the trouble is there are not enough blood cells. Anaemia is not a subject for first-aid treatment but the condition of haemorragic shock is, as it were , a kind of instant anaemia. The need is for more blood. Oxygen can do little to help.
A quite different defect in the supply is the rath er special condition of carbon monoxide poisoning. In this the carbon monoxide forms carboxy ha emag lobin with the blood which shuts off part of it so that it can no longer carry oxygen; at the same time it interferes with the
dissociation of oxygen in the tissues so that even the red cells which are carrying oxygen are not doing their work prope rly. The absorption of carbon monoxide is a reversible process; when the patient is brought into fresh air h e will start getting rid of the carbon monoxide through hi s lungs and this will occur much more quickly if he is given oxygen.
The lack of oxygen caused by carbon monoxi{!e poisoning may do damage to tissues gen e rally, particularly tho se of the nervous system; therefore, the quicker the blood can be made efficient again the more likely there is to be complete recovery. Oxygen is strongly indica ted as the first-aid treatment.
Insufficient cardiac output
If the hear t is not beating strongly and steadily it is found that oxygen is helpful. The reasons for this are not clear and are debated by the experts but the latest recommendation is that oxygen should be given in such cases. Insufficient cardiac ou tpu t can be readily diagnos e d by the first -aider who will find the pulse weak a nd thready. The com monest condition of this typ e seen by him will be coronary thrombosis.
To sum up, we can say that the first-aider would immediately give oxygen to cases of pulmonary oedema, ca rbon m 0 n 0 x ide poisoning and coronary thrombosis. In the other cases we hav e mentioned oxygen is not likely to be helpful unless there is weak and thready pulse, when it m ay be of marginal value.
For this last reason , therefore, oxygen can b e given in haemorragic shock, in electric shock and in poor breathing due to barbiturate poisoning and drowning,
but only if it is realised that resuscitation procedures must come fir s t and that the value of the oxygen will be small.
A special word should be said about drowning. In a case of drowning which subsequently recovers there will have been spasm of the glottis,so that no water - or very little water - has gone into the lungs When the spasm is released the carbon dioxide in the blood will act as a sufficient stimulus to ensure that d ee p breaths are taken. Once breathing has started it wil1 matter little whether oxygen is given or not. A person who has nearly died of drowning is however in a dangerous si tuation because he is liable to develop pulmonary oedema. There is some possibili ty that having been saved from drowning in water he will, a few hours later , drown in hi s own secretions.
Although therefore oxygen is not required in hi s immediate t reatment it should be available to be given to him at once if he shows any signs of needing it and al1 such cases should be sent by ambulance to hospital.
There are a number of types of resuscitation apparatus, some of which are merely oxygen and others are to provide positive pressure resuscitation, much on t h e lines of mouth to mouth. If a person stops breathing their hear t will eventually stop; three minutes after this irreversible changes will have taken place in the brain. By far the most important thing therefore abo u t artificial respiration is that it· sha ll be given immediately. If any m ec h a ni cal a pparatu s interferes with the prompt giving of mouth to mouth r es uscitation , even for 20 secon ds , it will be h armful and may cost life. It is absolutely essential that mouth. to mouth resuscitation is started immediately and that mechanical apparatus always takes the place of somebody who was previousl y carryi ng out this treatment.
A JUH ambulance vehicle being helicoptered int o a relief area
DURING NOVEMBER 1970 Johanniter Unfall-Hilfe sent a team of 22 personnel and a 200-bed field hospital to East Pakistan on flood relief work. The team comprised the leader (a doctor), a technical leader, one surgeon, one one nursing sister, three female assistant nurses and fourteen male assistant nurses.
The 20-tent hospital , with fully-equipped operating theatre, kitchen, water-sterilising plant and emergency electricity supply , weighed 25 fons and could be erected in 5 days. An ambulance and a lorry and trailer were also taken. The team and the equipment were flown out to Pakistan, and also included 250 stretchers, 250 air mattresses, 500 blankets, collapsible furniture , and provisions for teams and patients supplied by the Federal German Army.
The relief team was in Pakistan for nearly a month and treated about 4 ,000 people; 30% of the adults and children suffered gastric or int estinal upsets , 15 % from rheumatic complaints, 5% venerea l diseases, 15 % had injuries which required surgery, and the remaining 35 % suffered a variety of illnesses.
WEST GERMANY'S JOHANNITER UNFALL-HILFE-AMBULANZTHE EQUIVALENT OF OUR BRIGADENOW HAVE AN INTERNATIONAL RELIEF FORCE
The team leader reported inaccurate information in the operational zone as @[ile of the biggest problems; in flliture opera tions a radio link must be maintained; and there were difficulties in obtaining return transport of the team to Europe.
The entire cost of the operation was paid for by the German Deaconesses Charitable Organisation.
THE FIRST international relief action of the J ohannHer First-Aid Organisation was in Turkey in 1970. The second followed soon after in Jordan. In King Hussein's desert realm sandwiched between Israel and Syria there live tens of thousands of from erstwhile Palestine. They are accommodated in huge camps of tents or corrugated iron huts in conditions of considerable misery.
Integra tion of these refugees into the Jordanian people has proved a failure both politically as well as economically. As the result tension exploded into a cruel civil war. During this the Fedayeen, the arm that organised Palestinian rebels, clashed with Royalist troops.
During the bitter fighting which ens u e d houses and hospitals were destroyed or damaged and the death role soared.
The emergency hospital was established and equipped. After initial difficulties with local officials , we finally man aged to furnish an emergency
hospital in a private house on the slopes of Mount Hussein, one of the many hills sUHcilUnding Amman. We did this in co-operation with the Internahonal Medical Relief Organisation from Frankfurt and with the Palestinian Red Crescent. The Johanniter First-Aid Organisation from Cologne sent 5 members to take part in this operation: 1 doctor, 1 nursing assistant, and 3 male medical assistants.
Our emergency hospital consisted of an outpatients' casualty department, a small operating theatre, a ward for in-patients and a dispensary. Here we worked with the Palestinians in the immediate vicinity of a refugee camp, which only I month previously had been in the firing line and was accordingly considerably damaged.
The upper storey of the house was partially destroyed by fire and our accommodation had been sea l ed off from this by a high wall. About 50 to 60 patients, many of them veiled and thereby unrecognisable, waited outside the casualty department each moring. To begin with our patients were mostly mothers and children. Later, as a result of renewed civil unrest, we also received a number of burns and gunshot casualties.
Our work, therefore, encompassed the entire medical spectrum; from the care of wounds to excema, gastro-intestinal infections to diabetic coma (which we treated with Chinese insulin), to the removal of bullets.
The number of children with bullet
wounds was startlingly high . Many of them had to be kept in the ward of in-patients. Our ward slowly took on the aspect of a nursery.
One of our greatest initial difficulties was the reconcibation of our inherent national zest with the local oriental lethargy and stoicism, and we soon found ourselves not infrequently in comical si tuations. Our interpreter, Ahmed, would not translate our questions briefly and distinctly but involved himself in endless private conversations, covering the whole miseries of illness in general, the political situation, and family affairs. He would be deeply hurt when we interrupted him, or voiced our tactful doubts when he would state that the colour of the patient s urine was really blue!
The white plaster of paris bandages were a complete novelty for the patients; particularly the children found nothing more important than running around on them and showing them off despite our urgent warnings. No plaster of paris bandage lasted longer than a day , although we made it double the usual thickness.
Patients requiring X-rays we took to the only accident hospital in Amman in our bus. This hospital had only 17 surgical beds.
When we flew home after six weeks in Jordan we felt we had given very poor people a little help.
The Grand Prior of the Order has approved the appointment of Lord Cozens-Hardy as Bailiff of Egle in succession to the late Lord Wakehurst.
In recent years it has become the custom to think of the Bailiff of Egle as the prime authority on the Order's histOry and on its relations with the other Orders of St. John. But there is no reason why this should necessarily be the case and the need today is to strengthen the home front. Lord Cozens-Hardy is both the Commander St. John Ambulance and the Chairman of Council for Lancashire, which latter appointment he has held for many years. He thus has very great ex p erience and knowledge of our problems in one of the largest St. John Counti€ls in England and his appointment will give the Order a well-balanced team of Great Officers on every aspect of the Order'g work.
Congratulations to the Librarian of the Order Professor Lionel Butler, who is Dean of Faculty of Arts of St. Andrews University, on his promotion to Vice-Principal of the University.
From the Association Branch Director General Sir Hugh Stephenson comes the following interesting news:
'The Automobile Association, with 4V2 million members (together with members of their families c(,l11stituting a large and influential section of the population), is encouraging members to obtain first-aid
BY THE EDITOR
knowledge through the medium of the Four-hom Courses under the auspices of St. John Ambulance. This provides SJ A with the most challenging opportunity of recent years and brings us into contact, under the 1110st favourable circumstances, with an entirely fresh field, with excellent prospects for material returns as well as for recruitment. It is essential that the situation is exploited to the full.
'Those Counties who have already conducted pilot Four-hour Courses will have no difficulty in providing the necessary resources. Those who have not would be well advised to set up the machinery now.
'As members submit application to the AA for training, they are being broken down into areas at AA Headquarters and sent to us weekly, where they are further processed into Counties and sent out
under cover of a proforma letter. The AA have agreed that the courses may be delivered in four-hour sessions, two two-hour sessions, or in four separate single hours; and have stated that they will accept a six week interval between application and delivery of instruction They have also agreed that the fee of £1 per candidate is acceptable. Many divisions may find that two successive Sunday mornings provide a very convenient method of dealing with the commitment. These courses should provide a steady income if the scheme meets with the success that present indica tions forecast'.
At the Foundation Conference during June, during the Association session it was agreed to promulgate a relaxation in the conditions goveming the use of lay
instructors to first-aid course deliver the full adult It will no t now be necessary to seek the approv a l of the Chief Medical Officer for each such course in which a lay instructor is employed in sub stitution for a doctor. Such permission may in future be given by County Directors themselves ; or by Secretaries of Special Centres acting on b e half of their Chairman This does not apply to intensive courses for industrial purposes where the existing procedure will remain.
DR. SCOTT
Belatedly, congratulations to Dr. M. M. Scott, until recently SJA Surgeon-in-Chief, on being awarded the CBE in the June honours list.
MALTA
Publication of a book on the Malta Diamond Jubilee celebrations prepared by SJ A Nottingham has , I hear , been delayed due to an extensive fire at the printer's premises. The book will be available as soon as possible
COOKBOOK
SJA Norfolk has produced a delightful little book, which should stand up to heavy wear in the kitchen inciden tally, of English (and other) country recipes
contributed by their members. As soon as I heard about it I sent post-haste for a copy as a present for my wife (the cad, will say some nursing members). Now, when I have time to spare I love to browse through this little masterpiece and read out aloud suggestions to my wife for tomorrow's dinner. Tomorrow hasn't actually come yet, but I am thoroughly savouring the prospects of sitting down to double helpings of cockle pie (from Major Blount of Cley), Trudi s wild -du ck casserole with orange salad (from the Marchioness Townsend of Raynham ; is the Marchioness Trudi?) , pigeon stew with a difference (from Mrs. F. Helsdon of Rippon), Pigs in blankets (anonymous) , Flummety-Fly-Flow ( an old family recipe from Mrs. M. Keith of Hoe), a nd many other less-unusuaJ sounding but I am sure really delicious country dishes.
Makes your mouth water doesn't it?
This book , which should prove a best seller , can be obta ined from County Headquarters, St. John Ambulan ce Brigade , 59 King Street , Norwich , pri ce 55p including postage. Good eating!
A revised edition of 'On the Wa t er , In th e Water' , a safety booklet covering all water sports (and what a c ountry Britain is for the water , induding rain) is av a ilable lOp a copy (less for bulk orders) from ROSPA , 52 Grosvenor Gardens , London , S.W.l
OLD UN I FORMS WANTED
St. John's Gate, London, ECI: Very early Brigad e nursing and ambul a nce uniforms are required for a new museum. Please contact th e Curator in writing or by 9
80-year-old Mr. William Searle (see story) looks on while the trophy named after him is presented to the winner (ri@ht) Colin Williams of the fire brigade
telephone : 01-253 6644.
So turn out your attics everyone.
WILLIAM SEARLE
The major trophy in leading first-aid competition in the south-west, I hear, has been named after Mr. William Searle, who is believed to be Bristol's longest-serving SJ A officer.
Mr. Searle , 80, saw the rose bowl donated by W. D. & H O Wills , the firm where he worked for 46 years, presented to the B.istol fire brigade team who were overall winners of the contest which attraeted nearly 200 competitors.
It was held in the grounds of the Briste>l Constabulary Training School on July 4, and marked the merger in Bristol of the Association and Brigade
Mr. Searle has been successively a Serving Brother , an Officer , and last year he was made a Commander of the Order. He joined the Br ]gade over 60 years ago and is No. 1 Corps treasurer and staff officer in Bristol.
During her recent visit to Malta I hear that Mrs. Louie Hickman , OStJ, on behalf of the Glasgow Ladies' Committee of the St. John Association of Scotland, presented to SJA Malta a very beautiful Scottish Standard to hang in the Com mon wealth Room of their headquarters at Kingsgate, Valletta. The gesture was very much appreciated because S1. John in Malta are now proud to display the three U.K. Standards
together with flags of the Commonwealth countries and a large collection of tOWJil and COUNty crests.
At 8 am on May 2 0 D/O Mrs. Sheila Whitehead and Cpl. Barry Collins of Tring Div ision boarded a ramp ambulance and started off on a holiday with a differen ce', as the brochures say. They were going to help with a holiday for the physically h andicapped at the Shaftesbury Society's Centre Dovercourt Essex. It was the seventh year for Mrs. Whitehead (for the last five she has been in charge of her party) but the first time for Mr. Collins.
The party , 29 patients and 8 voluntary helpers from various London boroughs met at Liverpool St. station and travelled by special train to Harwich , and then to Dover court by the Shaftesbury coach.
Story TO MALTA: Mrs. Hickman, from Scotland, and the Standard she took to SJA Malta
The patients had to be lifted into the coach by the helpers.
The Dove.court Centre ms a purpose-bu mlt bungalow unit of 18 bedrooms, fitted toilets bathrooms, lounge , dining room, and an enormous kitchen (the resid ent ward en is in charge of catering). It is set in beautiful grounds near the sea front.
Mrs. Whitehead was responsible for all the patients needs - washing a nd dressing feeding, ouhngs, and putting them to bed again , and she was on call at night. Mr. Collins h elped to look after the male patients , took his turn at pushing wheelchairs , loading and unloading the coach, and the many other jobs that soon found which muscles were out of trim! Mrs. Whitehead was also in charge of any dressings o r treatments that had to be carried ou t.
Despite the weather not being very kind , everyone thoroughly enjoyed t h e fortnight.
'A study in research and development' is the subtitle of the 4-part series 'The Story of The Pill which starts on Wednesday evening, October 6 (Radio 3). By examining in depth one important and well known example it is intended to make a number of general points about the pattern of scientific research and subsequent co mmercial development.
The programmes will include interviews with scientists who played some part in the history of oral contraceptives, with staff of pharma ce utical companies now producing The Pill and with scientists or administrators concerned with present-day pharma ce utical research.
THE MEDICAL PROBLEMS associated with space travel were, understandably, subject to a good deal of speculation in the early days of human space flight but, as has been the case with the unknown at all times, they have proved less serious in a ctual practice than was originally imagined. The major problems with which aeronautical engineers, do ctors and physiologists are faced are the following:
Acceleration
During flight, speed is imperceptible since there are no close, exterior, visual points of reference. The two occasions when major acceleration forces are experienced are at blast-off and re-entry; in practice these have not been excessive. All accelerations were tolerated very well without any symptoms and the landing impact em AplDHo 7 was described by the astronauts as 'gentle' and like a piece of cake', and the Apollo 8 landing, although harder, was still tolerable and produced no symptoms in the crew. Likewise, alighting and take-off from the lunar surface presented no g problems.
Temperature
There ClJre two factors to be considelied - very high temperature and very low temperature. The kinetic energy produced by the passage of a manned missile in the earth's atmosphere results in very high teIYollDe ratUlies aliising fr@m skin friction. Thus, at Mach 4, temperatures of 820°C. are likely to be experienced, and at Mach 8, temperatures tn excess of 3,000°C. Mach 1 is the speed 12
by K. G. Bergin, OStJ, MD, DPH, FRAES
Radiation
Sa te llite observations have shown the presenc e of a seli ies of radiation belts around the earth, extending from about 400 miles above the surface, out to beyond 48,000 miles.
Radiation is specially high close to the earth owing to the pr ese n ce of the radiation belt in the magnetosphere. This belt constitutes an extra radiation hazard for or bits close to the earth bu t is not of grea t significance on long-distanc e missions.
Once outside the influence of the ea rt h's magneti c f e ld , the space traveller is exposed to co ntinous galactic radiation and th e possibility of solar flare s. Galactic radiation will give him about t e n millirem/day On a round trip to the moon th e total amount of radiation rec eived by the occupants of a spac ec raft would normally b e about % rem. Unfortunately, it is not po ss ible to prot ect space travellers from incidental radiation. Only thick, heavy material s con fer any protection, and the weight of an effec tiv e shield round th e skin of the spacecraft would be quite prohibitive.
Meteorites
Th e risk of a sp ace cra ft being in collision with a large size meteorite is exceedingly r e mote , but tiny meteorit es are relatively common in outer s pace and a doubl e-skin type of construction is, therefore , employed in space vehicle s to minimize the risk of decompression
On e of the most interesting aspects of s pace flight has been the state of zero g or weightlessness attained when the craft gets out of the attraction of the gravitational field of the earth. This has not led to so many problem s as were at first anticipated although, und ersta ndably, it has brought a numb er of problems in its train.
The disadvantages have , in large measure , been offset by the advantagesnamely , easy movement within a confined spa ce, and assista n ce in moving of heavy and cumbersome objects. Much ing enuity has been used in overcoming working problems a nd gloves and boots are fitted with adhesive material in order to assist prehensile operations.
Th er e is a n ot ic eable sk eletal calcium lo ss, a small but sign ificant lo ss of mu sc le ti ss ue and a lo ss of red cell ma ss of th e order of 20 % in an eight-day flight. There has been no seve re di sorie nt ation and the m axi mum pul se rate re cor d e d was 170 which occurred during extravehic ular ac tivity (EVA) when th e respi ration rate was 40.
Freeze dehydrated rehydratable and bite -size d foods o ut of tub es h ave been very s uc cessfu l , although one of the main problems ha s been that of variety. The Ru ssia n astronauts claim to h ave eaten a mo st exo ti c menu including roasts , m ea t pates , caviare, ca nap es, fish, sa usag es, fruit juice, cheese and coffee. Food should be of a non-crumbly nature.
of sound at sea -level or approximately 760 mph.
Very elaborate cooling systems have therefore, to be installed around the cabin of the space capsule if th e occupants are to survive during the re-entry period , as is evidenced by signs of severe scorching after splash -down
Claustrophobia and Detachment
Confinement in a very small space for a long period of time, possibly alone can 1e a d to serious symptoms of claustrophobia and also a severe degree of mental deterimation and detachment. A number of experiments have already been carried out in volunteers who were confined in a simulated space capsule for long periods of time. Under these conditions the problems have shown themselves to be very real, requiring the attention of psychologists, physiologists, and engineers alike. Selection of crews for prolonged space flight requires the greatest care if high standards of morale and efficiency are to be expected.
Experience has shown that it is more important to pick individuals for team-work than for their personal qualities. Know ]edge of tifue effects of isolation and confinement on group behaviour is critical, and the over-crowding and lack of privacy inherent in space travel causes irritability aJild Fesentment im persmilal relationships. Em 0 tional stress is also !i nevitably present.
Some of the biochemical and physical t'esults of space travel can be measured,
exa mples being galvanic skin re s ponses , disturbal1ces of sleep pattern , changes in excretion of ca te c holamines and corticosteroids, variations in pul e rate, respiratory rate, blood pr essu re and EEG recordings. In a ddition, there is cardiovascular de- co nditioning and r eduction in total body water, blood volume and body weight. There is an adaptive pro cess to these changes with the progress of time .
Waste Disposal
This is a major probl e m which ca nnot really b e said to have b ee n satisfactorily so lv ed. Faeces have to be shed into a plastic bag and urine is pass e d into a similar bag through a valve devi ce. (Ed.'
On last month's Apollo 15 flight a leakage of e nvironmental atmosphere through this valve caused some anxiety on the outward journey, but the trouble was quickly traced and rec tified). The systems leave much to be desired aesthetically and functionally, but have sufficed in the Apollo programm e so far. Numerous small problems have been encountered in the use of both of these systems in flight, and the process of defaecation in flight is so distasteful to the crew every attempt possible is made to avoid it.
The disposal of fluid carbon dioxide excreta, odours, and the provision of food , oxygen aIild water all demand a closed ecological system. However, experiments involving the use of oxygen-producing algae have not been vel'Y successful.
It is very difficult to assess accurately the effects of such small dose s of radiation as the Y2 rem received in a round trip to the moon But the effects on adults would probably not be det ec table. On longer journeys , such as those to the plan ets of our solar system the accumu l ation of 100 millirem/day becomes mor e significant. A month's round trip to Mars might take a week off the traveller's li fe expectancy - a very small price to pay for the experience
The human effects of radiation h a ve been studied for only one or two generations, and our knowledge of the cumulative effects of small doses is considerab l y le ss than our knowledge of the acute eff ects of high do ses. Because ex p eri e n ce over these two generations has re p eate dly shown previous unsu spected sequelae of radi a tion exposure, the doctors responsib le for the health of space trav ellers are rightly cautious in the exposure dosage they will allow. Improved knowledge of the physica l environment and of the bio logical effects of radiation will a llow us in th e future to strike a better balance betw een the risks and benefits of space travel a nd exploration.
Problems of hypoxia and dysbarism can be avoided with a 60/40 % oxygen-nitrogen atmosphere if the crew are d e prived of nitrogen for a t least three hours prior to the launch, and oxygen emrichment is designed so that the partial preSSU lie of oxygen is never less than at sea level. Decompression sickness is a possibility during the early hours of an Apollo mission, particularly if extravehicular activity is necessary
Several astronauts have suffered from orthostatic syndrome after landing, and complain of excessive weight of their clothes on their body - or their body when lying on an examination co uch ; this usually passes off with a few hours. Crews have reported a fe eling of fullness in the head which is noticeable Gn attaining weigh tless flight They are a ware of the sensation for varying lengths of time, usually lasting for several hours. They adapt quite well to the weightless state within a very short period.
Body Physiology
Ob se rvations made on astronauts and anima ls after space flights of many days show a number of effects , but it is not altogether easy to determin e th e primary cause of eac h. They are due to a combination of factors including weightlessness, nervous tension, isolation, and confinement
During flight, there are initial circula tory disturban ces, a decrease in blood pressure a progressive loss of blood volume and bone mass , some atrophy of muscle tissue a n increased excretion of calcium and phosphorus changes in the excretory rate of various hormones , and a loss of vigi lance com bi ned with an initial ability to sleep properly. Generally, the sensations produced by weightlessness are highly individual. Some astronauts have no reaction, some show dysfun c tion , and some have nausea.
Loss of bone density as measured in the os calcis has been highest at 14%in an eight-day flight and lowest at 1% in a 14-day flight. It is remarkable for its inconsi ste ncy. Possible causative factors are lac k of exercise, decreased water intak e, decreased calcium intake diet and rest.
Sleep in the weightless state has been a problem on all missions , and c r ews tak e time to adapt to sleep in these conditions. They continue to want to have contact with some object and have tried to wrap an arm or leg around something to hold on to even though they are floating free in the sleep station. All sleep p e riods have been attenuated, the longest being approximately five hours. All the crews' circadian rhythms were disrupted for they were sleeping at odd times and the effect of weightlessness , c ombined with noise of the other crewmen in the cabin making communications with the ground station, produced a most unsatisfactory situation in fligh t.
The crews all became fatigued, it being most marked on the Apollo 8 mission where the crewmen had not had adequate rest prior to the l O-hour lunar orbit period during which they obtained no rest at all. The fatigue did not noticeably interfere with their ability to perform.
The Soviet astronaut, Colonel H S. Titov had great diffi c ulty in falling asl eep. He could not get into the right position and could sleep only after securing his limbs All crews found that , if the work and sleep cycles could be approximated as closely as possible to their terrestrial habits , this helped in the solution of the problem Improved working capability outside the space capsule (EVA) depended in large m eas ure on adequate tethering methods including hand holds , propulsion capability and programming with rest periods.
Group Captain Whiteside states that changes in performance and alertness owing to a subject's inability to compare phenomena with a known standard can go undetected by him in many industrial tasks and some phases of long-haul route flying Space travel may produce similar effects. Weightlessness deprives the muscle and join sensory receptors (or proprioceptors) of their usual method of determining the position of an active or inactive limb , and hand-eye co-ordination cou ld be
impaired. Relearning, however, takes place a lmost immediately.
Fatigue
This was a marked and expected problem, particularly during periods of extravehicular activity (EVA). A variety of factors contributed to this - absence of normally experienced action and reaction at normal gravitational values, positional maintenance, heat, the carbon dioxide content of the helmet, mobility within a pressure suit at 3.51b per square inch, and excitement.
B io-i
nstru mentation
One of the more trying features of the fligh.ts from the astronauts' point of view was the fixation of equipment to bodies for tele-recordings of bio-instrumentation which, however, yielded interesting data on cardiac and respiratory systems during flight. Understandably, pulse rates rose to the maximum during particularly intricate or dangerous parts of the mission such as separation of the lunar module from the command capsule, blast-off, re-entry, etc
Critical Medical Studies
These included cardiovascular function and haem otology , respiratory metabolism and energy expenditure during a me asu red workload , musculoskeletal functions, nutritional baLance, neurophysiology of vestibular problems, sleep, co-ordination and the energy cost of tasks in flight with comparison
between the zero and normal gravitational state.
Preventive Medicine
There is little that can be done here other than to ensure as far as possible that, for two to three weeks prior to the flight, the astronauts are kept free from exposure to large numbers of individuals carrying possib [e sources of jnfection. As an additional precaution, all capsules carry small first-aid packs with the usu al medicaments.
Physical
Pre- and post-flight physical examinations have been remarkable for their lack of significant findings. In particular, there has, to date , been no evidence of central nervous system dysfunction of any sort. There has been a substantial weight loss following each mission but this has usually been regained in the course of a few days
Increase of excretion of urinary calcium in the Gemini 7 flight was respectively 9% and 23% higher than normal, as was the excretion of urinary phosphorus. Bone loss from the os calcis ranged from 2-15%. This might indicate a very real problem for the integrity of the skeleton in space flights of long duration , but equally probably it might level off.
Special attention has been paid to methods of preserving the condition of bone material, since loss of calcium from the bones has been observed since the first orbital flights Many experts believe
that, on long space flights, demineralization of the bones may be a great d anger to astronauts possib [y causing bone fractures, ca cium deposits in organs and tissues , and functional disorganization of the hea r t.
An 0 t h er striking fin ding was a noticeable reduction in red cell mass - in some cases as high as 20%. Later Apollo spacecraft have been launched with a 60% oxygen/40 % nitrog e n environment wh ic h altered in flight to about 93% oxygen, when no red \)Iood cell loss occurred.
Summary
It may be sa id , with confidence t h a t none of the problems so fa r encountered in space travel is beyond the scope of the physician, the biochemist and th e environmental engineer.
(I am gratefu to my colleague, Dr. Philip Edmondson, for assisting me in the preparation of this article.)
REFERENCES
Berry, C. A., Nation a l Aeronautics a nd Space Administration. Preliminary Clinical Report of the Medical Aspects of Apo ll os 7 and 8. A eros pace Medicine, March, 1969
Be rry , C. A., S t atus R e port on S pa ce Me di c in e in the United States. Aerospace Med ic ine , July 1969. World Health Organization. Medical Problems of Space Travel, J 969. Yegorof, Boris, A Do ctor in Orbit , World Health May , 1969. Nicholson, Squadro n Leader A. N., R.A.F. Institute of Aviation Medicine. Medical Complications of Space Flight, Journal oj Hospital Medicine, June, 1970. (This aricle is rep"inted from Nursing Times).
(Far eft) Flying hooves and poles as Carol Beckley crashes through a fence. (Left) The pony was first back on its feet, and (Below) help soon arrived for a shaken Carol (Photo Echo and Post, Hemel Hempstead)
Apart from the photographic in cid ent , two women were injured and scores of peo ple ran to safety when a pony pulling a t rap ch arged into a sc reaming crowd of specta tor s at a rece nt Hemel Hempst ead hors e show. SJA mem bers at sh ow rushed to th e scene and took the two women to ho spital; both had leg injurie s
Dr. K. C. Easton, MB, BS, DRCOG , whose pione e r work in the field of 'Road Accident After-Care Scheme' is well-known has written the following preface to the 'Roadside First-Aid' tape slide present a tion: The ever i ncreasing deaths and permanent serious injuries which result from road traffic accidents constitute an epidemic illness of our contemporary society. Doctors are only too aware of the problems to be faced. Their Medical Commission on Accident Prevention has made definite recommendations over the past seven years that medical care shou ld be improved not only in the hospitals but also at the accident sites, in the am bulances during transit to hospital , and in the standards of tr a ining of the voluntary first aid organisations.
Doctors throughout Great Britain are now volunteering their services to improve the immediate care of the seriously injured, joining with their colleagues of the ambulance, police and fire services in perfe cti ng rescue techniques.
However , all their expertise can be negated if the ' First on the Scene i.e., the driver in the following car, does not know the elementary priciples for call out of the rescue services, nor the drill for preventing death or further injury until they arrive.
Roadsid e Firs t-Aid' is addre sse d to the general public, making them aware of the part they have to play, and directing them to the voluntary first-aid organisations to seek tuition.
In the coming years every qualified St. John Brigade member will b e ca lled upon to help in this enormous task of educating the public. It is up to each one of us to ensure that we have fitte d ourself to help meet this need _ when called upon'.
The presentation was recently scree ned to the Foundation's Appraisa Panel and their report i s:
The panel was unanimous that this is an excellent programme; it is directed mainly to a lay audience and expresses basic tenets with force and clarity. Furthermore this material is invaluable inasmuch as the field of roadside first-aid is one within which very little suitable visual aids or appropriate teaching material is available. The on l y adverse comments were that 'c ontinental' w a rning triangle is now accepted within this country and that a b etrayal of ignorance within the programme in respect of the composition, B.C.F. might be deleted.
This programme (No. 69.41) is available for hire to St. John members at a fee of 40 new pence and is obtainable from: The Medical Recording Servi ce Foundation , Royal College of General Practiboners, Kitts Croft, Writtle Chelmsford, Essex.
ENTONOX IN THE AMBULANCE SERVICE
British Medical Association, BMA House, Tavistock Square, London, we 1.
This audio tape with it s colour transparencies was found to be Suitab e for the instruction of ambulance personnel. Instructors
are advised that they might wish to divide the presentation into natural parts , so that they can discuss one section with their audience before they play the next section In this way they would reduce the apparent pressure of fairly rapid presentation of a great wealth of information. Instructors may also wish to stop the tape recorder when a slide shows too much information to be absorbed before the speaker moves onto other data. The sessio n should, of course, be followed up by a thorough discussion and by an opportunity for each member of the audience to handle the equipment.
The panel commended the use of three speakers, but felt that they tended to le cture rather than to speak to a listen e r. Tight editing made it difficult to appreciate the change from one speaker to the next. A division into clear sections with recapitulation at the end of each part would he lp the audience to absorb the wealth of data presented. A revised edition might with advantage offer advice on the problem of the patient who cannot use his hands to hold the mask, if only to caution the enthusiast. A written hand-out would be most helpful to follow-up what has been learned through listening to the tape recording. In addition, instructors would appreciate a brief text of guidance on how the presentation might be presented most effectively from the educational point of view.
While the illustrations were of good quality and interesting, some contained too much information, so that an effort to take in the visual data distracted att<mtion from the verbal commentary. Some of the illustrations were not entirely c lear and others were perhaps unnecessarily detailed. Also, it should be remembered that while the showing of the 'real thing' raises the interest of the audience, it can unwittingly distract attention: 'So that's what their ambulance looks like, why don't we use those types of fittings'.
The panel made these extensive comments becau se they felt that the whole was basically most useful.
SJ A Appraisal Panel
Pergamon Press 4-5 Fitzroy Square , London W1. Box 1, 2, 3 £8 each; box 4 £ 1 0 ; box 5 and 6 £ 11 each. A series of 350 colour slides in six parts, mounted and boxed.
These slides, in the standard 2 by 2 inch format, mounted in card without glass , and correctly spotted and titled, are presented in very well made plastic cases, each tailored to a set of different length. Reference is thus extremely simple and parts of the series may be easily abstracted for use and easily re-filed. I make a special point of this , for many collections are so presented that retrieval of required information must be done on the 'terrier-down-a-rat-hole' principle
The slides were originally produced for consumption in France by Mm. A. Charpentier and H Mercatoris, of Versailles. They consist of a very detailed collection of material somewhat repetitive , and obvious l y more suited to the didactic style of French teaching practice than to British usage where the teacher today is more concerned with principles. Having said this , I must co mm e nt on the quality of th e photography. The best especially the photomicrography, is superb. There is a bad 'tail' - mainly in the pictures of dissections and experiments, where the lighting would be bad even if done by a junior student. These slides, which are painfully obvious , should be rejected and repla ce d by the publishers. The quality of the co lour is good having regard to the economics of bulk reproduction. The radiographs , as always on colour film , are disappointing.
These slides would provide a good nucleus for the library of a school which has none of its own. But the teacher wou ld need to be very se lective in choosing the ones to use. The whole set was exhaustivel y examined · by Brigade surgeons at the recent Foundation Medical Conference, and while they were generally admired it was felt that apart from a few dissections such as the heart and eye they h a d little application to St. John training. This is not entirely a criticism, for they were not designed for that purpose
Robert Ollerenshaw
FIRST AID AND THE LAW
from John E. Dane, chairman Croydon Centre SJA
I have read your 'CommeNt' in the June Review on 'First-Ai d and the Law' , with interest , and in response to your invitation for views on this subject, I am submitting evidence to show t hat Mr. Adams in his research did not lo ok ba ck far enough to find th.e earliest date in which the word first-aid was used, or the contents of a first-aid box were listed, in law.
I enclose a facsimile (see below) of Form 923, issued by the Fa c tory Departm e nt of the Home Office in January 19 24, head ed First-Aid. It describes th e use of the contents of the first-aid boxes required by law in factories and workshops in the treatment of minor injuries
T his form makes interesting reading to first-aiders and there are two historical notes I should like to add.
Carron oil was a mixture of linseed oil a nd lime water in equa l parts, said to be first used for the treatment of burns at the Carron Steel Works I can rem e mber making up some for my first-aid kit when I was a Boy Scout. It was then the accepted treatment for burns
Iodine ca me into use fo r t he treatment of wounds during the First World War , as a pre Ga ution against tetanus infection i n action, and was included in ampoules n our first field dressings. When contained in bottles in first-aid boxes, if not properly stoppered the alcohol evaporated and the solution became too strong. Also it was found that its application retarded the he a ling of a wound by destroying the growing cells of the skin. Later it was replaced by surgical spirit.
TREATMENT OF MINOR INJURIES. A S CRATCH OR SLIGHT WOUND.
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations Although readers may sign published letters with a pen name, writers must supply th eir name and address to the editor.
on their eleventh birthday. Also, having on average thirty cadets at each meeting, I am glad the age is not lower as I would dislike having a waiting lis t or even needing to tum awa y potential members.
Op1l11On it is equal to the Queen's Scout and the Duke of Edinburgh awards. We all know, when we were at school, if we won a ce rtifi cate we co uld no t get hom e fast enough to show it to our friends.
ised dressing s houl d, therefore, always be used as it is free from germs.
Iodi ne sterili ses the wo und and makes any dirt h arml e;s. H a nds are ne ver free from germs, wnd sh ou ld never
n0t be used for a First Aid Dressing. Carro n oil is n o steri e. I ts -use may also interfere with any subsequent tre.'1.tment bJ a doctor ,or in tbe ambulance room.
Do BO prick a p.xcept und er medicI11 advice; it iH no part of the Fil'st Aid treatment, AJ,IT AmD BURN.
Flood the burn wit h coid water, :'lpriulde it (after flooding) w ith powdered Bicctrboll:tte of Soda. Al'ply :1 Steri lised Dressing" of suitable size.
* A 2 per cent, solu bion of Iodine in A co hol. "Sterilised Dressing." A m'essing put up in'" sep",rate packe and rend oFed fr ee from germs by &
In r ece nt years two major cha n ges have taken place: the first b e ing the provision that the person in charge of a first -aid box must be a qualified first-aider, that is, one who h o ld s a va li d approved first -aid certificate; and secondly the extension of the Act to cover shops, offices and business premises.
During 19 28 'First -Aid ' became an ind ependent publication and in two of its early issues an article appeared on first -aid and the law.
I still r e member two of the main points which in brief were as follows: A pati e nt can refuse treatment and a first-aider who p ersists against t h e patients wishes is committing an assault. The other was that if a police officer is presen t he is in charge. This I learnt from ex p erience early in my first-aid career when the Law diagno se d one of my patients as drunk and incapable and marched her off to the police station.
Croydon John E. Dane
CADETS AND JUNIORS
from Heather Worsley, divisional superintendent I read wi th interest the article H alt! Who goes there?' in the August Revi ew, a nd offer some thoughts on the points raised.
Firstly, cadet ages: I disagree with Mr. Cooper in that I do not feel young persons under el even years of age are sufficient ly m at ure to cope, not only with th e learning needed, but a lso aU the new concepts introduced to them in a first -aid course. If the requirements for the cadet first-aid certificate are l owered to cater for a younger age, the value of the certihcate will decrease and the standard fall. The 'Essential s of First-Aid' manual is no friend of mine but until a new manual is issued, and may that be soon, under elevens, even with the most able of would no t be able to its contents , I , too, h ope that a n ew manual will b e geared more to the cadet ages, with progressive s t ages to cover the four years of cadet life.
Secondly, juniors: this is a perennial topic an d in my experience running a cadet d ivisio n takes up so much time t hat the j unior s hav e to be r un by senior ca det s or encouraged to r et urn when th ey are ten years o ld to prepare for a first-aid exam
Thirdly, proficiency badges: the cadet sy llabi require a high standard and to achieve this th ere must b e adequate training. It is interesting to note that although St. J o hn certificates are acceptable for some Girl Guide badges, this does not work in reverse. I agree that some fa the courses are out of date but having enquire d regarding librari anship at London Headquart er s, i t was suggested that I (as a qualified librarian) pr epare a revision of the subject and I am s ure that other offers would be most gratefully accepted.
As a Grand Prior cadet, [ have always valued my hard earned badge and would h ate to see a lowering of the standa rds for achieving it. The Brigade has always asked the highest sta ndard s of its members and I feel we lay a good foundation in the work done in our ca det divisions.
Thank you, Mr. Cooper, for raising so many interesting points. I hop e that one day we may meet at 'Nottingham' so that the discussion ca n continue.
Kendal N. CD. Heather Worsley
from Mrs. A M. Walker, divisional superintendent I r ead with interest the article a bout our colleagues in the J ohanillter Unfall-Hilfe July Revi ew and the suggestion that we should visit them, I hop e that whoever contemplates doing thi s meets with more co-operation and h elp in contacting them 1"1n I did two or three years ago, when I wanted to do just that. I have friends in Dusseldorf and Vel bert whom I vi si t from time to time and I saw a Joh an nit er ambu lan ce in Velbert, so the next time I went there I asked H.Q. here for the n ecessary add ress es and perhaps an introduction o J ohanniter. I was told t hat they could not help and that I sho u l d wear some distinguishing badge and try to attract their atten tion. I had visions of waving a flag in the path of the am bulan ce n ext time I saw it and gave up the idea but it would be nice to think that when I go again I could now rely upon some help in contacting our colleagues in Velbert. !liord. A. M. Walker (Mrs.)
GRAND PRIOR'S BADGE
from John A. Alderson Reigate Division
I agree with Co rp s Supt Ed Tortell of Malta (August Review) that so me form of citation shou ld be given to cadets on receiving the Grand Prior's badge which is a very great honour. In my
This being the very highest a ward for cadets, I feel they would also appreciate a certificate.
Reigate, Surrey J ohn A. Alderson
COMPETITIONS
from W Gwilt area superintendent (A)
Re ce nt e dition s of the Revi ew hav e carrie d articles co n ce rning the 'marks' and 'judges co mm e nts' at competitions.
The endless stream of 'pa rrot fashion' questions and commentary by a member of a team, and the varied a nswer s from different judge s, must create many di scussions and possible grievances by t ea m s after the contest. No two judges have the same approach; some want to be told by the co mpetitor that 'he sees the face is pale', do I see any further danger ', is this deformity that I see'. All these queries are allocated marks and if not asked, then points are lost. On the other hand if a team ac ce pts the si gn s and symptoms and treats accordingly without comment, they lose marks. This is all very confusing to any team.
Surely in this day and age we have reached a stage where an ncident should be handled as it would be either in workshop, home or road accident, where in most cases no doctor is standing by.
Could not competitions be arranged without a doctor actually being on the set? He could be at the side and record everything the team did , or did not do , but not to be there to say 'yes the face is pale - when this is obvious to anyone. Throughout the country there are fu lly trained members of Casualties Uillon. As casualties the se m e mbers could inform the judge as to how they were handled and if the competitors found all the signs and symptoms. If the set was completely realistic , the patient fully trained , and the marking sheets amended, this would cut out a lot of unnecessary questions.
There are of course some things a casualty can not portray, eyes, pulse etc., but even the pulse could be m a rked on the wrist. I offd these ideas as food for thought.
Stoke-on-Trent
from B. F. Rockell, area staff officer
W. Gwilt
I read with interest the letter by Ann Spencer (July Review) regarding incessant chatter by competitors n first-aid competitions. Perh a ps by offering the following thre e points of
advice, it will help cl a rify the rea s on s for the running commentaries' she refers to :
1. Competitors us e such commentaries as a fail safe meth o d of noting and symptoms. By covering literally everything that is seen or heard and repeating it, p arrot fashion, ensures that every fea t ure that marks are gain e d for is recorded verb a Uy to the judge. Some uns c rupulous competitors find this method ideal in li sting the signs a nd symptoms of virtually every known injury or disease, knowing they are bound to list the correct poimts (including many other irrelevant ones). For t un a tely modern marking sheets often allow a deduction of marks for signs and symptoms noted, which do not apply to that particular injury.
2. No matter how efficient a judge, it is often diffi c ult to note all the treatment and p atient examination that is carried out (mQre especially if two or more casualties are marked by one and by verbally noting and asking everything, all points are mstantly brought to the judges' attention.
3. Casualty simulation is now a very advanced art , as pradised by Casualty Union, but it is difficult to simulate (and indeed dangerous on occasions) certain conditions, e.g. contraction or dilation of pupils, altered pulse rate, cessation of bleeding, a worsening Gynosed or condition of pallor. It is therefore always necessary to question the judge on the altered condition of a patient, although it may be as one sees it, which would produce the judges retort Ann Spencer refers to.
These points show how different competition technique (and it is a technique) is from standard first-aid adopted at the roadside or in the home, and allowance has to be made for simulated conditions with simulated injuries, and a judge marking, to the best of his ability, from a marking sheet that pre-sets the ideal treatment and diagnosis that one is trying to adopt.
Slough, Bucks
from G. S. :Haggett, league secretary
B. F. Rockel!
After reading in the June Review about a First-Aid League organised by Mr. Phelps, while I wish him every success I feel I should point out that I have been running an ambulance league for the past 15 years known as the Teeside Am bulance League. It consists of teams from the Brigade, am·bulance and nursing, and different works in the district.
Middlesborough, Yorks. C. S. Hoggett
TEACHING
from Ronald A. Radley
Following my letter (March Review) I would like to thank J. B. Harvey and P. L. White (May) for their comments. It is indeed encouraging to know that I am not alone in these thoughts and that others have managed to surmount similar problems.
The letter from E. J. Baker (June) , leaves me confused - I wish I could decide from his C0mments whether he is for me or not and would like to take some more of your space to explain of th g issues raised. My original letter concerned our standards, not any 'pre-emptive right to teach' Professionally I would claim that right, but I hope I have sufficient wisdom and maturity to realize that such a claim is neither practicable nor desirable in any voluntary organisation. However since Mr. Baker raises this point perhaps it would be advantageous to examine it more closeiy. The point at issue was really the value of the lay in structors certificate, which in my experience has been almost valueless. Does Mr. Baker not f eel that those members (professional teachers or not) who have bothered to take a special course for the L.I. certificate stand a better chance of running a class successfully than those who have not bothered? As such a course exists, it seems morally wrong not to value it by not stating in Regulations that attendance at such a course be a pre-requisite to a training position of the member.
Rather than claiming a 'pre-emptive right' I was hoping to show that I am required to spend several evenings and weekends in school a nd this lessening of my free time Pl!lts restrichons on the amount of time I can give to St. John. At the same time [ felt U3
t hat as I enjoy teaching - and specialised in anatomy and physiology - I could se rve St. John more easily in this field while undertaking what other du rti es r find possible. What me is that while these opportunities, at least until very recently, have not come my way other members of questionable instructing abdity have beerm working othetr mo vem ents Wh en rendering first-aid on a public duty it is possible to appear effICIent to bystanders e ven when our effici e n cy is not so high as perhaps i t should be. (I am not suggesting this hap pe ns , but it COUld.) When tea c hing or instructing there is no escape a nd so poor instructors working with another movement are a bad advertisement from which ther e is no re lease.
Mr. Baker find s that 1 'reveal th e sta ndard attitude of many schoolmasters that t hey and only th ey have a ny right to tea ch'. I fe el Mr. Baker hims elf reveals a lack of awareness of the mov e ment in educahonal thought I used the word eacher' He used the word 'schoolmast er'. A subtl e differen ce of wording but an Immense dIffer e n ce in He then find s the pr ese n t methods (of us i ng a do c to r for th e lectures and a first-aid er for the d e monstrations) ve ry successful. Both must be blessed with exceptional do cto r s, si n ce this is not my expe ri e n ce. Doctors study th eir subject most intimately and to a much high e r l evel than a first-aider n ee d s to. I wonder h ow many doctors actually take sufficient time to prepare their lectu r es at the req uired leve l.
On e of the problems of spec ialis ed training is the difficulty of communicating ones knowledge at the required level, a nd this ability to find the right lev el is a ba si c abi lity in teaching.
Mr. Baker is co n ce rn ed tha although m an y certifica tes are issu ed to the public very few act u all y be co m e members. One reason must s u rely be l ack of drive in society making the commitment to volun tary work und esirab l e, but what are the others? I wonder , would it be possible to devise a questionnaire for classes to comp lete at the e nd of a co ur se. A thought w hi ch ma y be of value ; p e rhaps we cou ld give it a try sometime.
I hope I didn 't imply that we l ose so many cadets because our cadet officers are not 'qualified teachers'. My meaning was mtended to be ra ther different. I cited Scouting as a n examp le where leaders a re now requ ir ed to undergo training. This training ensures that the sp irit of Scoutin g remains ce ntred aro u nd t he ?oy and his n ee d s. BP 's book was ca ll ed 'Scouting for Bo ys', the Important word being for. Are we not cadetting for first -aid (a n d nu rsi ng) rather than fo r cade t s. Are we perhaps too fir st-aid centred a nd n ot eno ugh cadet centred ? Are we t oo restr ictive in our outlook to cadets? Are we making the most of o ur proficiency badge scheme? I realize that I didn't make these thoughts clear and hop e t h at this h as n ow been done Believ e me I am not knocking St. John , o nl y as king most humbly a few questions which I feel are important for our futur e Li ngfield, Surr ey Ronald A. Radley
THE OVERHEAD PROJECTOR
from Miss Yvonne J. Albon
In the ar ticle Th e Overh ead Pr oj ector ( Revi ew Jun e 1971) , Th e National Audio-Visual Aids Ce n t r e is n o long e r i n Paxton Plac e but at 254-256 Belsi ze Road , London NW6 (01-624 88 12). I have found them very h e lpful (during the years I worked in London especially) and rea d ers might lik e to know that th ey run courses on the u se and making of teaching aids.
Chester Y von ne J. Albon
PEN PALS
from C Fremewan
I noticed in the February Review tha t assistance may be giv en to find Brigade members to correspo nd with.
I am publicity and recru ihn g officer for the Mid-Canterbury sub-distr ict, i n New Zealand, and would like to c orrespond with so meon e in a similar po sition in Britain so th at material a nd ideas can be exchanged. I am 26, m arrie d with two chiMren, and 3a'a int e rested in surf life-saving and ba sketba ll , as well as all facets of St. John work. My home address is 101 9 Lower Styn Road Christchurch 5 , New
C. R. Fremewan
jumble sa le for th e Church and d elivering new s-sheets round the village. The minister of Torphichen hop es to get them involved i n some major project in the field of voluntary service in the autumn, and at the same time he is planning to start a girls' sectio n of th e Youth As soc iation. He is hop i ng tha t these young people will move by sta ges to full mem b ership of th e Assocait ion. The first stage recently en d e d with a n examination on the h istory of the Ord er set by the lo ca l headmaster and marked by him to e n sur e imp a rt iality. I am su r e t hi s expe rim e n t will be of great interest to some readers so here a re the questions set in this examination:
1 Against which group of people did the knights fight to defend the Holy L and?
Royal visit to Edinburgh
On Jul y 2 the new Priory H eadquarter s was open ed by Prin cess Anne. On a fin e sun n y morning everyone assemb l ed outside St. J ohn House, to await her arrival : the Pr ior and Chapter , the Herald s, a d e tachment of the Youth Asso ciation from Torphichen and D e nny, and th e Edinburgh Poli ce Pipe Band. After the Prin cess h ad be e n received by t h e Prior , th e Prelate bl esse d the new house and Princ ess Anne unl ocked the door with a key present ed to her by Major Ja mes Watt She sign e d h e r n a me in the Visi to r s Book and toured the buildin g, e nt er ing the new Chapter R oom, hung in black and magnificently decora te d with painted shields and a superbly embroidered s tandard of th e Sovereign H ea d. Her e sh e was presented with the k eys and mad e a gracefu l and amusing speech. O n leaving, a b ouquet of flowers was presented to her by Gordon Brown, a bout whom more below. After h er departur e coffee was served to all present in the staff -r oom of the n ea rby Murray House College of Education a nd th e Priory was open to inspection for two hours.
Torphichen and Denny
On Jun e 27 a specia l service was h eld i n D e nn y Old P arish Church. Sir Andrew Mun"ay, the Cha [ilce llo r, led a co nting e n t from Chapte r and al so pr ese nt were the A FAMILY AFFAIR As reported last month in th is column Lord Haddo the Pr io r invested his wife, Lady Haddo, as a Commander
2. In which ci ty in the Holy Land did the knights run a ho spita l?
3. Name two of the three islands w h er e the knights had th eir headq uarters?
4. During which cent ur y did the knights estab li sh themselves in Scotland? If you know the year give it.
(Photo: Glasgow Herald )
Lord Li e ut enan t of Stirlingshire , the Pr ovost of Denn y wi th magis tra t es an d co uncil o ffici a l s together with rep r esenta tives of the WRVS and the R e d Cross Association. Out side th e ch ur ch a guard of h onour was formed by the St Jo hn Youth Association. The service was conducted by the minister the Rev R. G. Lawrie. The lesson was r ea d by the minist er of Torphichen , the R ev. T. Crichton, a nd the sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. Lewis Cameron. Musi c was provided by the D enny High School choir and trumpeters The se rvice had been arranged by th e Torphichen Association who in Jun e also h el d a b a rn dance that r a is ed over £ 100 -for the projected young peop le's h ome Torphichen is probab ly best k n own to the reade rs of thi s column for its Youth Association. Twelve boys at Torphichen and f iv e a t Denny age d from 10 t o 14 years have been involved since the beg inning of the year. At Torphichen th ey usually m eet for an hour on Saturday mornings at the l oca l Youth a nd Co mmunit y Centre. H ere they have games a nd physical training and are taught abo ut the history and traditions of the Order. They a lso undertake some voluntary service on a personal bas isind eed t hey h ave to do some work every week without acce pting any reward ; they h ave also worked as a gro up _ collecting for P akistan i refugees, for a
5. True to their vow to Help their Lord s Si ck ', what did the knights start at Torphi ch en?
6. Draw the b a dge of th e Order.
7. What was the title given to the h ea d of the Order ?
8. Whi ch coun tries made up the Tongu e of England.?
9 Name two ways in which the Order serves m a nkind in Scotland today.
10. Name one of the Order 's activities in J e ru salem today which is supporte d by money from Scottish branches.
wonder how many grown-up members of th e Order wou ld pass this test? All t h e boys in Torphichen and D enny got through - and Gordon Brown of Torphi chen obtained full marks , answering every question correctly!
A New Book by Mrs. Hay of Seaton (Alice Ivy Hay Valiant fo r Truth. London: Neville Spearman. £2.25)
A book has just been published that will be of interest to mem ber s of the Order in Sco tland and to many others. The auth oress, a Dame of Gr ace and for long one of the leading fig ures in the Order in the Aberdeen area has written a very moving biography of her husband, Malcolm H ay of Seaton, himself a Knight of St. J ohn, who died in 1 962
The subject of th e book was an ex traordinary man , a cosmopo litan , ca tholi c Scottis h La i rd who was at the sam e tim e a n int e lle ct u al and historian. It is n o t often th at one is privileged to have the story of a distinguished man's life told by t he person clos es t to him - or told so well. Mr s. H ay very modestly fee s 19
that she is not able to assess her husband's worth as an historian and is chary of going too deeply into his behefs; she is often more prepared to give the views of others as express ed in letters , articles and reviews, whom she argues are better qualified to judge these matters
But she herself gives many precious insights into the character, temperament and methods of a scholar observed in close detail, and her book should be valuable for that alone.
Malcolm Hay was born in 1881. After education in England and France he seems to have settled into the routine and local interests of a Scottish landowneralbeit a highly intelligent one - and from Mrs Hay's narrative it would appear that , although his early years showed some stirrings of what were to be his later
interests, the rest of this life might have been quiet and compartively uneventful were it not fo r the First War - it must remain a cause for astonishment that the first published work of so prolific an author did not appear until he was in his middle thirties. Severely wounded right at the start of the wa rhe remained affected by his injuries for the rest of his life - he eventually became head of M I.IB ., the cryptology department of the War Office, where his staff included a brilliant galaxy of academic talent intercepting and decoding the message s that passed along the world cable lines. It seems t o this reader that in the pre-war years his energies had been bottled up and that his experiences in the war released th e m while catalysing thos e emotions and
St. John in the Army
THE ROYAL REGIMENT OF WALES , a t present stationed in Osnabruck forming part of the British Army of the Rhine, have the unique distinction of having the only St. John Ambulance Brigade unit within the armed forces. It is natural that the Division being part of a Welsh regiment has come under the contrel of the Priory for Wales.
The Division was formed last June and already many of its members have had first hand experience in dealing with a large variety of casualties, esp ec ially during the Regiment's tour of Northern Ireland last year.
A considerable improvement in the practical administration and in the general interest shown in first-aid training has been noticed within the Regiment during the last twelve months , all thanks to the incentive that St. John training has given us.
Sometimes things may appear slightly complicated , when for inst a nce, private soldiers suddenly seem to be promoted to corporals or sergeants in the evenings and on weekends and then revert back to their military rank when on their normal duties This strange kind of behaviour , as it seemed at first to those mem bers of the Regiment outside the has now become an accepted thing to them and everyone has a better understanding of what is actually going on.
We do our duties in much the same way as any other division and have the same financial and other problems that must I am sure be encountered by all new divisions. One good thing about being stationed in Germany is that we are able to work with the Johanniter Unfall-Hilfe with whose members we have strru ck up a very good friendship. The JUH method of first-aid varies slightly from our own St John teachings, and it adds to the interest in being able to compare our different 20 methods.
On April 26 a first-aid comp e tition was staged between two team s of four from tihe JUH Osn a bruck and two teams of four from RRW St. John Division. Thi s competition coincided with the visit of the Chief Commission er St. John Ambulance Brigad e , Lt-General Sir William PIKE, KCB, CBE, DSO, and took the form of a road traffic accident. RRW emerged narrow victors over the JUH, and on presenting the prizes, Sir William congratulated the four teams on a very high standard of first-aid.
Last February the Prince of Wales, The Colonel in Chief of the Regiment visited us in Osnabruck. He congratulated the
interests th a t had been slowly maturing. Certai ro.ly the next forty years were marked by an e xtraordina r y series of studies, concerned especially with two causes into whi c h he threw himself with great fervour: c atholic history a nd th e plight of the Jews. Hi s books on the se subjects aroused great controversies , fully described by Mr s. Hay who must have been a great suppo r t to him. She speaks fasci Iilatingly of his methods of r esearch, based i n p a rt on the techniques he h ad acquired as a cryptologist, and des cribes the part she played in interesting him in Zionism
This biography is very readable and is a must' for any who would like to know more about one of the most int er esting Aberdonians of this century.
J.R-S .
Prince Charles during his recent visit to the Royal Regiment of Wales in Germany On the right is the regiment's SJA divisional superin endent D J. Hughes , SBStJ
member s on the ir initia tive and the spirit they showed in f o rm i ng th e divi
Prin
showed
erest in our activities and we nt on
sh u s success in our new rol e Th er e mus t be a large numb er of ex-armed servi ces p er sonn e
rving with SJAB , and I would be very inter ested to
on the value of this St. John Division to a Bat ta lion today , and also their experience s in the task of fi r st-a i
and canvas and u se of the mani fold harn ess The result s of th e co mp e tition were : Arthur Joiner Memorial Shield - 1s Filton 'A ', 229 points out of 280 ; 2nd, runn e rs-up trophy Bristol 'A', 212 point s; Uniform C up - Greenbank 'A', 389 out of 400 points ; mnn ers-up Filton 'A', 38 3 point s. The Be st cadet of the Camp trophy went to Martin Yorke (Bristol South).
CHESHIRE- Ambulance m e mb e r Rob ert
Youill of the Altrincham Divi sion, who is a full tim e amb ulan ce driver in the Man c h es ter Ambula nce Serv ice, toge th er with a colleague, Mr. B Shaw , were awarded th e App le yard Ro seb owl after winnin g the amb ul an ce off ce rs two-man North West Competition at Wigan in June.
Tw e lv e teams com p e ed in this area final and ambulan ce m e mb e r YouiH and hi s colleagues were J 5 poin ts ahead of th e ir nearest riv al, so they now go forward to th e Nati ona F in als t o b e h eld at Harrogate in Au gu st. It is the fir s t time a Man ch es t er team has won this trophy. Congratulat io n s to ambulance memb er You ill a nd Mr. Shaw and our be t wis hes for su ccess a t the National Finals!
DERBYSHI RE- During Ju ne, 12 ca d ets and 2 officers fro m th e North D erby Area m a de a two-day visit to th e QARANAS Tr ai ning Centre at Alder shot , th e fir t ever by SJA m e mb ers apparently. Th e cadets w e re each accompan ied by r esident trainee s durin g th eir stay a t the centr e, wh ich i nclud ed: a talk on Army nurses
training, a detail e d tour of th e mili tary h os pit.tl and mu se um, an in spec tion by the du ty office r, and part ic ip at ion in the var ious co ur ses, including f rst-a id t hat were in progress.
The two SJA officels, Mr s K. Stan il and, area st aff officer CN.C.) a nd Mrs. M Anderso n , county s taff officer (N.C.) , pr ese nt e d the Commandant of the Ce ntre, Co l. M. Fabian, RR C with a min er's am p as a m e m en to of this vi sit by De rby sh ir e m e mb er s.
DEVON- At th e AGM of t h e Broadcly Com bi n ed Cadet Divi s ion a n e nr o lm e nt cere m o ny was he ld for eigh t n ew cadet s The ceremony was ca rr ied out by Mi ss E M. Grant, area staff officer ca d ets (N) and Mr. D. E. F. Quinn e ll , co unt y staff officer ca d e s (A).
Mr. John Procter (a former leader of th e very su ccess ful Exete r Ci ty Police fir s t-aid team) was prese nt ed w ith hi s ce rtifi cate as Pre s id e nt of th e Divi s on by Mr. K. Ch ic k , area s aff off cer ca d e ts (A).
HAMPSHI RE- Fo ll owing a req u es by th e nur sin g m e mber s of h er Sou t hampton divi sion for a n air attendants cou r se, Div. Supt. Mr s. Rita Carr invited a m ember of BEA t o giv e a talk o m e mb ers a nd fri e nd s on 'Tra n sporting Inv a lid s by Aircraft'. Many m e mb e rs had n eve r been in a n air cr aft, and the guest speake r Mr s. King offered to a rr ange a trip to J ersey for t he m The day c h osen for th e out in g was warm and ca lm , and al m embers thoroughly e njoyed th e fli ght and th e coach tour of the island As the trea s ur er of th e divi sion sp en d s mu ch of he r time in a w h eelchair, t h ey were al so ab le to gain fu s h and expe ri e nce, a nd were a ll very impressed w ith th e ca re tak e n o e nsu re the in valid's co mfort.
LANCS-Bl ackpoo l divi sion s we r e awa rded th ird pr ize for t he ir flo a t o u t of a total of 70 commer c al a nd non- co mm ercia l float s in h e Round T ab lers cha rity carniva alon g he prome na d e for being the mo s t topi ca l and rete nt io n of the purpo se of o rganisat on.
Di s pi t e m any la s t-minute sn ags an d monsoo n- type rainstorms, SJ A was put over to he thou sa nd s who braved we a ther wit h a float which was a bl aze of co lour. The organiser a s k e d for th e th e m e of Europe or Commo nwealth, whicl-vprese nted problem s fo r an organ isat o n su c h as o ur s a nd still re t ai n a message of our work. The 18 -foo t long lorry
was flanked w it h 1ft high le tt er s St. J oh n Ambulance h e f ront of th e lorry had a 4ft squa re badge of the Ord er surro und ed by uni for m memb er s; then ca m e 10 nu rsi ng ca det s holding the nation a flag s of Eu r opean c ountri es on 8ft po
uni fo rmed
of J ohanniter of Ger m any, th e Faks-R edningskorps of Denmark , Armee du Salut of France and the de Kon-M e di co Ned. of Holland, and a nother 4ft square sign with a map of E ur ope surmount e d wit h th e words First-Aid is in E ur ope'.
Th e We st German e mb assy though t th e eve nt important enough to deliver the J oha nni ter
s to take a clo se r l ook at th e St. John Ambul a nce float and to sh ake h ands wit h the E u ropean uniformed member s.
CLUES TO CROSS WORD No.9 (71) Compiled by W A. Potter
ACRO SS :
1. Genes root in fema le sex hormone. (9 ) 9. Its distal extremity fOHns the lateral malleo lus (6) 10. Soothing application produced by lamb (4) 1 1. Remove skin to expose pulp. (4) 12. Saint with a h a bitual twitching of facial muscles is neither improving nor becoming worse.( 6) 13 Pus sister found in infectious respiratory disease. (9) 14. An end to micro-organism commonly preceding measles (6) 19 Pairs of ribs atta ched direct ly or indirectly to the sternum (3) 21. As mealy as ferment of pancreatic juice. (7) 22. Very hard metal tipping nibs. (7) 23. P lay a part in 35 Across. (3) 25. of c hanging prices. (6)
29. A spirit to use for mumps ('9 ) 3U Condition characterised by neuromuscular hypersensitivity due to parathyroid defi c iency. (6) 32. Neat -looking order l y (4) 33. One is advised not to c a rryall in the sam@ basket. (4) 34. Foetid nasal discha,rge in A.A. zone. (6) 35 Sensory ne rve e ndings in the nose (9)
DOWN :
2. Hard c oating of c rown of t e eth. (6) 3. Return before noon to sta r t a n d finish fruit (6) 4. Resist attitude assumed a fter small operation. (6) 5. Alkaloid from calabar bean used to cOll3trict the p u pil. (7) 6 The turbu lent air following a bathe produces senous infectious disease. (9) 7. Wound distressing R u th. (4) 8. Inva Sive tumour resulting from c oma in car. (9) 15 7 Down with disab lement. (4) 16. Use of the hands to d e t ec signs of inj ury or disease. (9) 1 7 A sort of person to group and c ross -match blood for tran s fusion . ( 4) 18. Growth such as 8 Down. (9) 19. Mild l y stimu lating decoction. (3) 20. Parasite 's egg in upturned tin. (3) 24. Bones fornning the vault and base of th e sku l l. (7) 26. Cold in the h ead (6) 27. To a ssimilate f<Dod (6) 28. Car m inativ e for red -fiaired p e rso n ? (6) 31. Emohonally-stimulateol se cr etion (4)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 8-71
ACROSS:
1. Herpes zoster ; 9. Citadel; 10. Ti.rade s ; 11. Nappy ; 12. Swede; 13. G.a.mm a; 16 Trave l ; 17. Ga ll.op; 18. Atr i a; 19. Piston; 2l. T.error; 23 Dens.e; 26. TLO.Op; 28. Pub.is; 29. Otalgia; 30 Venu l es ; 31. Hunter's canal.
DOWN:
2. Ectopia ; 3 Paddy; 4 Sclera ; 5. 6. TelSes; 7. Red cell; 8. Osteoporosis; 9. Constipation; 13. Gland; 14 Mo.r.on; 15. A gate; 20 Stomach; 22. Rub.e ll a; 2 4 Ex.ha le ; 25. Shaves ; 27 Pagan ; 28 Pin na.
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ST. JOHN APPEAL
St. John Goes to Germany p.2
Order Investiture, July 22 p.5
'Pop' -a nd the Brigade by T. M. Lytham p.6
Around and About by the Editor p.8
Communication with patients, a talk by Miss W. E. Hector p 12
Exercise SJ Dunelm by John Knox p .13
The Unconcious Patient by William Thompson p.14
The Short Spinal Splint by E. C. Dawson p 16
Readers' Views p.18
Overseas p.21
News from the Divisions p 22
EDITOR: FRANK DRISCOLL, 26 Pembroke Gardens , London,W.8. (01 -6038512)
ADVERTISEMENTS: T G. Scott & Son Ltd.
1 Clement's Inn, London. WC2A 2ED (01·2426264 and 01-4054743)
Price 12p
Cover:
Publications Ltd )
£1.70 per annum, including postage, from Treasurer , Order of St. John 1 Grosvenor Crescent, London S.W .1
I AM SURE all reader s will be thrilled by the news that for the first time the Order has been allocated a TV appeal spot. The appeal will be on BBC j TV I on Christmas Day and will be made by the Lord Prior himself, Lord Caccia, for the Order's charitable work. It will be a 5-minute filmed programme screened nationwide during the afternoon or evening. We will tell you the exact time as soon as this has been settled For the Order's Foundations this is a very important event , for only by the Order having sufficient workrng capital can it finance the Foundations and give them the tools they need to carry out their work. It is not enough just to hope that this appeal will produce really tangible results; we want to make abso lut ely sure of it.
And this can be achieved by every member throughout the country telling at least ten people about the appeal, the time and channel it will be on and asking them to promise they'll look in. We a national campaign to spread the news.
Appeal stickers for your correspondence and envelopes will be sent shortly to all county headquarters , from where your supplies can be obtained for distribution to members.
Drum up your contacts with the local press. Next month the Review will suggest ideas to feed to local newspapers about the appeal - and so help to spread the word.
The last three months of 1971 must be St. John Appeal Quarter. Just think - on Christmas Day 15 million people could watch our Lord Prior talking to them in their homes about you - every single one of you - and your work with SJ A. If one in every three of 15 million people each donate s one shilling (so rr y, flve pence) - the total for St. John would be £250,000! Yes, of course we want modernisation; as an organisation we need this and that and that. Here is the way to achieve it.
The Editor.
and
Herr
TWO PARTIES OF YOUNG BRIGADE MEMBERS
ATTEND JOHANNITER'S JOINT TRAINING
CAMP ON THE ISLAND OF SYL T
ONCE AGAIN the J ohanniter-UnfallHilfe i nvited young members of the Brigade to a joint training camp at Hornum, Sylt, in August. The first party of 30 ambulance and nursing members, including a few cadets, was drawn from London District, an interesting account of their experiences by District Staff Officer (Cadets) (N) Miss 1. L. Robinson follows.
The second party which le ft England by a different route, travelling on the Harwich - Hook of Holland ferry and then by rail to Sylt, was of a similar size and make-up but was drawn from counties throughout the country It also included Divisional Superintendent David Hughes, of the Royal Regiment of Division from Osnabruck, and four of hiS young soldier-members. I had the great pleasure of le ading this second party.
As our journey began I had fears that men and women (boys and girls actually) drawn from the four corners of the country, none of whom had met before , would take some time before they jelled into a truly representative St. John team; but such fears proved to be groundless. We met at Liverpool Street station and I was agreeably surprised to find a smart, bright and enthusiastic gathering of members - without a single oddballand by the time the train had reached Harwich they had sorted themselves out and become a coherent crew of which St. John could well be proud.
I think our programme was very similar tl) that reported by Miss Robinson. We did om two- hour training stint every morning. We had two very fine lay instructors in George Kirkham and Ji3ernard Knight, both of whom managed to hold everybody's interest and ram home a lot of sound first-aid teaching and Some of SJA's second party on a tour of the island
practice We enjoyed very good weather during- our two weeks, an d everybody came back tanned and glowing with health. The beaches in Sylt are quite magnificent.
Everybody who had the good fortune to enjoy the hospitality of the J.U.H will, I know, wish to join me in saying how grateful we are to our German fri ends for their invitation. Our hosts were truly splendid. They did everything possible to make our stay both interesting and enjoyable. The language disappeared in the friendly atmosphere that prevailed and we all got on famously, using 'pidgin' talk and a lot of hand waving. Addresses were exchanged and alr eady return visits have been arranged on a private basis. Finally, a word of appreciation for Walte r Salzmann, the camp commandant. He ran the camp with a quiet determination and everyone gained the greatest possible benefit socially and work-wise. There was a complete absence of 'bull' and a surfeit of good healthy comradeship.
It is the Commissioner-in-Chief's intention that we shall be ab le to invite our Ge r man friends to a training camp on similar lin es in England in the summer of 1973. I hope it will be a successful and memorabl e as Hornum, 1971.
T. Fazan, Wing. Cdr.
A party of 32 SJ A members made a little history when departure was made from London on July 31 for a two-week visit to Germany.
Our party from London District, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner D erek Fenton, consisted of 2 district staff officers, a divisional surgeon, 2 divisional superintendents, 3 corporals, 12 ambulance members, 5 nursing members, 2 cadet leaders 2 cadet sergeants, I ambulance cadet and i honorary member.
We were the first official St. John training contingent to go out to h elp Germany's Johann iter-Thfa ll-Hilfe. Our object was to advise and help our German counterpart on the creation of a cadet organization similar to the one in Britain.
Our party gathered at Liverpool Street station, lo oking smart in uniform and l aden with luggage, and a lmo st immediately two members were involved in rendering first-aid to a traveller who suffered a heart attack on the platform.
The first stage of our journey took u s to Harwich, where we boarded the boat 'Prince Hamlet'. After settling in our cabins, we had a leisurely lunch and then enjoyed a delightful afternoon on deck in the sunshine The sea was remarkably calm a nd after dinner that evening we strolled on deck before settling down for the night. Next morning the sun was bright, the sea still very calm. By breakfast we were cruising up the River Elbe with beautiful scenery on either side.
At 9am we disembarked at Hamburg , where mem bers of the local J ohanniter met us. They had arranged a coach trip round the city for us, which we found most interesting and enjoyable Bidding farewell to our J ohanniter friends at noon, we boarded the train for Westerland on the Island of Sylt.
The four-hour train journey went very quickly and soon we were again being
greeted by members of J ohanniter, who had come out from the camp to assist us with our baggage on to the coach for the final stage of our journey to Hornum. At the camp we were welcomed by the President Peter Graf zu Bentheim-Tecklenburgh-Rheda, and Herr W. Salzmann and his staff. The camp is a large barracks at a Reserve Army Ho spital.
After the evening meal the President Graf Benth ei m formally welcomed us to Hornum , and honoured Deputy Commissioner Fenton by presenting him with the merit ribbon of the J ohanniter Order. Mr. Fenton thanked the President for the honour bestowed on him a nd in turn presented the President with a large plaque from London District.
Later in the evening the senior officers of both St. John and the J ohanniter were invited to a party on the 'Gorch Foch', the boat which makes a daily trip to Heligoland. We were welcomed aboard by the captain and during the evening were introduced to a number of J ohanniter members.
The next morning after breakfast at 7.30am we attended our first session, at which we were told of the various courses which were to be held during our stay. The courses started at 8.30am and lasted for approximately two hours , after whi ch everybody was free to swim and relax on the beautiful sandy beaches.
Every morning at 7am the German national flag, the St. John flag and the J ohanniter flag were hoisted. Deputy Commissioner Fenton arranged a rota system for a n officer, two male and one female members, to form a St. John section of the J ohanniter colour party.
After breakfast on Tuesday official photographs were taken, and then our party split up, some attending resuscitation lectures others Nursing in t he Home. In the evening we entered in first-aid competitions, and later played ball games in the gymnasium.
On Wednesday afternoon we went on a coach trip round the island, and at one point could clearly see Denmark across the water. In the eve ning we talked to the youth of the J ohanniter and their you th leaders about our cadet organization. They were most interested and were anxious to learn how we run our ca det divisions, which we fu ll y exp lain e d.
Our doctor Divisional Surgeon B. L. Bisley was kept busy in the ca mp surgery most days attending to members of the J ohanniter St. John a nd the Bund es wehr. He was very impressed with the modern equipment and faciliti es available.
On Thursday a heli co pter arrived at the camp to give us demonstrations of their coastal r escue work. We watched mock rescues of casualities, which was very exciting and interesting The senior pilot showed us the equipment inside the helicopter which they use in their res c ue work. They are in action he told us 3
almost every day.
Later, the Nuremberg first-aid team produced a mock road accident and their ambulance crew dealt with it. In the evening, it was our lads against J ohannit e r at football.
Friday evening was 'Nonsense Evening when everybody enjoyed fun and games
On Saturday w e we re taken on a tour of the camp hospital, where we were shown modern equi pment for a c omplete mo b il IS hospital w h i ch could be set up i n two hours Most impressi ve
On Sunday at the clo se of our first week we bo a rded t he boat for Heligoland , an adjoining i sland It was a beautiful day, the sea was a little c;: hoppy but we enjoyed the d elightful four-hour boat trip. Heligoland is a delightful holiday island - full of duty free wines , s pirits, cigarettes, etc. It has a lovely harbour, with blue sea and brilliant sun. After a stay of four hours, on the return boat journey we saw many seals
On Monday the fifle weather bwke a nd it was raining. Most of us at t e n ded lectures on radio c ommunications In the evening we put on our show 'An Hour with St John' , which we h ad worked out to portra y our c adet movement. This included an inspection, an enrolment ceremony , twelve diff e r e nt proficien cy subjects, culminating in the St. John Cross formed with b a ndages and the singing of ' Knights of St. John'. We felt it was a successful effort, judging by the applause from our German friends.
President Peter Gr af Bentheim received. word that the German Chancellor Herr Willy Brandt was to arrive at the camp by helicopter on Tuesday morning Again it was raining - however we and the J ohanniter members lined the q uayside at the far end of the c arn.p, and when the helicopter arrived , Deputy Commissioner Fen t on was presented to the Chancellor, and then we were presented Herr Brandt chatted for a few minutes and was most 4
interested in all aspec t s of our w o rk.
On Wednesday , w e wh o were d ri v e rs enj oyed the e xperien ce of driv in g th e J ohanniter ambulances and qu i ckly got used to the left-hand drive Us eful knowledge w as gained and we had a lo t o f fun in the practical demonstration s with the J ohanniter radio eq uipmen t.
We all a ttended a Nursing in t he Hom e le c ture on Thursd a y In the ev e n ing w e attended ' J ohannit e r Pr es ent s , w hi c h w as very inter e sting as ind vidu al offi c er s ex plained th eir job s as J oh a nn it e r memb er s The President th en p resen t ed all St John members with a gift a nd a badg e . S t. John then pr ese nted all t h e J ohanfliter memb e rs with an Ord e r book-mark , whi ch w as immed ia tely u se d to collect autogr a phs.
On Saturday it was f a rewell. Colours were raised a nd we marched past in farewell to the J ohanniter, with Gra f
Bentheim taking the salute At 7.S0 am we set off on our return journey. At Bremen we were met by two m embers of the local Johanniter who saw us on to t he train for Brem erhaven We board e d the Prince Oberon' at Bremerhaven and arrived in Harw i ch a t 1Dam on Sunday morning After cl earing customs we w ere involved i n rend ering first-aid to a passenger wh o had a n epilepti c fit and badly cut h e r hea d in falling This ca u sed consid e r a bl e d elay whilE< our d octo r and members de alt with th e casu alty b u t British Rail w er e grateful fo r Our assi stanc e and h el d up the t r ai n fo r u s, putting us in fir s t cl ass sea t s. We arr ived at Liv erp oo l Stre e v ery w eary af t er n ea rly 30 hours tr avell i ng! We w o nd ere d how Wing Command er Faza n and his party from al l part s o f th e U .K were fe eling , as they would b e ju st arriving f or their fortnight at Hornum . Through o ut t h e fortnight's st a y on Sylt much of our tim e w as sp e nt discussing with o ur German frie n ds t h e methods of wo rk i ng in o ur t wo o rganisations Mu ch of value ca m e f ro m these infor mal t alk s, es pec all y on t h e youth pr o blem. The J ohannit er h o p es
o bj ective. We all consid er ed it an extre m ely worthwhil e a nd very h a pp y visit to Germany. Our tha nk s ar e du e t o D e pu ty Commissioner Fen on f o r th e e xcell
, SRN, S CM QARANC.
E liz a be th J osc ph in e, Mr s. va n Ber ge n.
AS OFFICER (BROTHER)
F r a n z A n t o n He im ann , MD LRCP&S
L R FP&S
R ay m o nd Les lie J ill e tt TD , MB BS DTM.
Mich ae l Fran c s Bin ne y R egin a ld R ob ert J e un e Thoma s Cunnane.
Li e u -Co l o nel Rob e rt Neils o n Hou ston
Maj or Pet er A u br ey Batt.
Th e R evd. Ca n on T h o m as Barfe , MA
Will a m Bra nd.
Th o m as Whi tfie ld Evan s. Dav i d Lloyd F r an c is.
J ohn Al bert H ayd oc k
Hub e rt Hodg so n
Fr e d e ri c k W ll ia m J o h ns on MR CS , L R CP.
Osw o ld K ir k, J P.
St anl ey Wi lli am Wee kes J ohn D a vid Craig, MD C h B, MR CS L R CP , F R CGP.
David Blac k t op, O BE MI FE
J o hn Ch ar les Hook
J ose p h Mi ne r , QFSM , JP
Maj or Wi ll ianl Ke n n e t h Bing h am Cr aw f o rd
Br ig ad ier An tho n y C rook, MC MR CS, LR CP
Co l o ne l D onogh Declan O' Br ien, MB, BCh BAO
Maj o r Ant ho n y Ri ch ar d Carr.
Th e Revd . Eri c D awso n D aw s o n -Wa lk er , MA.
Bri ga di e r J o hn Irvi n e , OB E MB
Colon e R ober Ch ar le s J ef fer y TD , DL.
AS ASSOCIATE OFFICER (BROTHER)
Samu e Long, MB , Ch B, MR CG P.
Juliu s L evy , MD , LR CS , LR CP L R F PS
AS OFFICER (SISTER)
Emil y , Mi ss Hu n t.
Pa tri c a Beatr i ce E d en, Mr s Alle n Li e u t -Co o n e He le n Cat e n a ch, RR C, SRN QARAN C.
GertlfU d e Mi ss Sp e ight.
AS SERVING BROTHER
Jam es Alfr ed Higgi n s.
Major Willi a m Joh n Mar ti n Gr een er.
DA. Ron ald H e nr y Du ckett J o hn Sa m u e Ma n n
e y E dwi n Sh an no n Wal t er V ictor Murr ay Bry nl ey E d w ards. S t anl ey F r e d Hell iar
E ri c A f r e d Gr ee n E ri c Cy ril Wa lt er Whybre w Alfr ed Tho m as Di ckinso n Jo h n Willi a m S tirli ng. George Tho m as Pi ckard
George Fordy ce.
Wi lli am S anl e y Lem pi erc e
Do ug as Willi am Bat e s Hogg, MB, BS
An drew E lli ot Fergu son.
Gr anvi ll e Pepp e rd a y.
F r an k Coy e Be ll
Jo sep h Ch arle s E t h eri ngto n Willi am He nr y Se nt en ce.
Jo se ph E d wM d Du r h am J esse Lea.
E dm un d Harry J a mes Hobb y.
Vi c o r Bri an Langl ey
Al be rt George F o s er.
C yril J oh n Pri e st
Ar ch ib al d Willi am Stanil and.
E rn est Harr y Co lli ns.
Arthur Geo rge C ox.
F re d eri c k W illi am Hin chcli ffe.
War dm as t er Li e ut-C omm an d e r G erl a d Dou g as
Stewar t Ph illip s, R N.
Wil fr ed Swan n
Ed mu n d Tw o hi g
Vi c t o r Harr y Co p sey, SR N R SCN
AS ASSOCIATE SERVING BROTHER
Jo sep h Har ri s Potter.
He r ber Levy.
AS SERVING SISTER
Wi n i fr e d Jo an , Mr s. Lamb
Ad a Margare t , Mrs Har di e, S RN Marj o r y Mrs La n e Ivy May, Mrs Donal d so n. Els e, M ss Maso n J an e t Mr s T e mp e s Gl adys May, Mr s Andr ews.
by T. M. Lytham, county staff officer, Essex
THIS IS NOT a dissertati @n on the technical aspect of a public duty, but rather a possibly somewhat unco-ordinated impression of a most unusual duty undertaken by St_ John in Esssx.
The event was the 'Pop' Festival at Weeley organised by Clacton Round Table. About 3 weeks before the day the local division was asked to assist in sup plying first -aid and ambulance facilities for a period commencing at 8am on Saturday to lpm on Sunday, August 28/29.
Thus from small beginnings came a major duty and in the event finally we were on duty from 6.00pm on Friday , August 27 until dawn on Monday, August 30 -a period of 60 hours of continuous and intensive first -aid and ambulance work. When the Brigade is not responsible for the duty, and in such an atmosphere accurate records are difficult to keep, but on average, between 8am and 10pm each day, 50 casualties an hour were treated and it was recorded that over 2,000 persons rsceived aid during the period of ths festival and we transported 16 cases to hospital. 12 divisions took part in the duty, providing some 35 nursing and 40 ambulance personnel, including doctors and trained nurses. The minimum hours on duty of anyone person was 8 , many did 20 or more hours, and one, I know, did 30 hours.
We divided the duty roughly into 8 -hour shifts, and I was scheduled for duty a t 8am on Saturday I, with mem b ers of Braintree division, set off at 7am on a lovely summer morning for Wee1ey _ As we travelled along the C o lchester by-pass we saw a convoy of motorcycles and before long had arrived at the tail-end of a group of Hell's Angels and thus we travelled to within a mile of Weeley. A strange combinationSt_ John Ambulance with Hells Angels as outriders We relieved the Halstead ClJnd Co lchester Divisions, who reported a steady flow of casualties all night with a gra d ual build up from dawn onwards. Our members quickly settled in working with 6
the do c tors on duty dealing with cut feet - no shoes seemed to be the order of the day - tummy upsets , minor burns and cuts from camp fire cooking, and dressing old wouds which had been n eglected
Headaches and jaw aches were common and we soon learned that these were in many cases the results of the use of drugs. Our casualty bed area was along one side of the tent wall. Communication was by 'walkie-talkie' equipment and I had just been in.formed by the operator of a big fire when my wife, attending a sick girl , said 'Look at that!' and through the wall s of the tent we saw the red glow of fire
The fire was not more than 50 yards from our Medical Centre. The strident alarum of the fire engin e soon sounded and the screams and shouts of the crowd added to the cacophony. The womenfolk were marvellous - they soothed their young patients and said not to worry To o ur intense relief someone decided to spra y the tent with water and 'ere long all w as under control. Needless to say we had a deluge of minor burns together with some more severe burning ; one of whi ch we sent to hospital.
As the afternoon wore on we began to get more body injuries, and with these casualties came stories of Hells Angels 'beating up' stall-holders and groups of people with a variety of weapons. Our wireless operator then alerted us that the security men were about to 'clear up' the Hells Angels Ten minutes later seven Hells Amgels arrived, one unconscious - a fractured skull one groaning and vomitting blood - and five with blood streaming from head and face wounds
Our bed area looked like a wartime forward medical hospital. The nurses set to, washin g the wounds and cutting away the hair from scalp wounds. I was on my knees by a stretcher when a roar like a typhoon echoed round the tent and in storme d about 20 Hells Angels armed with bottles, cudgels chains, etc, looking for their pals. They crowded into the bed area shouting and
swearing and th ere i s no doubt w e wer e, to say the le ast , a little perturbed. Again the nurses w er e just wonderful. Th ey s too d by their ch arg es, p ale bu t determined to minist e r to th eir ne e ds. They appeal ed t o the Hells Angel s t o let them get on with the dressing o f the wounds and after what seeme d an age they departed uttering thre a t s of vengence against the 'enemy'. 'Mak e do and mend with the d o ctors stit ching up the wounds then proc eeded ap ace a nd in about half an h o ur w e we r e b ack to 'normal
Early evening relief di vis ion s arriv ed after completing ot h er b a n k h oli d ay comm itments and we w er e abl e to walk around th e f es tival ar ea. Th e co lour ful garments, group s o f y oung p e opl e sit tin g, talking or listening to guit ars outside th eir tents, mothers h e ating milk over fires f or young babies, and th e atmo sph er e of contentment, j oy fulnes s and p ea ce is difficult to d esc ribe Perhaps it ca n best be summed up by my wife s rem a rk : It is like a story from th e Bible wh en Jesus gathered such crowds toge t h er'.
We left at about 6pm in time to r eturn the ambulance for y e t another contingen t to go on duty for the 'n i ght shift '.
A telephone call when I got home said we had been asked to extend our first-aid cover until dawn on the Monday. Supt. Cobb of Elmstead (Yellow Column Commander) rallied his 'troops' and we managed to get personnel and ambulances for the rem aining period of the festiv al. Sunday was a liepetition of Saturd ay, except that we had no specta cul ar incidents during the day Drug cases became more numerous and our 'hospital' was constantly full of persons in various phases of their 'trip'. An organisation called 'Release' , who specialises in drug addichon had been allocated tents with doctOlis, and layme N assistants , and whenever possible the drug cases in the Medical Cen tre were fer ried to the 'Release' tents.
To comp ete the story , at about 10_30pm came another call from the
aren a of a dead' person, and what h a d by now becom e st and a rd practic e a do c tor and four stret cher-bearers went of f. The doc t or in this ca se w as our county surgeon Dr. Weller. They returned with th e body - no pulse , no heartb e at.
Four do c tors and four stalwa r ts went t o work - resuscit a tion , oxygen inj e cti o n ,
such crowds together ? (Photo: Even i
) but no result Again and a gain - n o chee r fully ' Good morning ' I've jus t b e en r esult A forth inje c tion a nd a f aint to h o spital. He's aliv e and well. flutter of pul se - th e p atient was alive It wa s Dr. Well er. I could not help but Dr. Weller took him to hospit al. Th e co ol wonder if h e had been to bed at all. I was medi ca l atm o sph ere of the tent w as too tired to ask I just went to sle e p restored. agam feelmg th a t th e Brigad e in Essex had At 8a m on Monday my tel e phone r a ng well and truly d o n e its duty in th e h i gh es t and from a d ee p sleep I heard a voi ce sa y tra dition of th e Order.
MR. ALEXANDER KIRKPATRICK
Mr. Alexander Kirkpatriek, OBE, Chancellor of the Priory in Ne w Zealan d , died on August 26. This will be a great loss to the Priory. A telegram of condolence was se nt by the Lord Prior on behalf of the Chapter-General of the Grand Priory
eLi FF HANGER
The following is a report by l6-yea Jf-old Cadet Sgt. Trevor BuNer (See photo on next page) of a cliff rescue at Sherricombe Gut, Holdstone Down, Combe Martin, Devon, on July 25 1970 : At l4 . 00hrs I was called for ambulance duty as attendant to assist at the above rescue. We arrived at the top of the cliff at approximately 14.20hrs.
I proceeded with Mr. D. Halsford t eD investigate the We could lilot see any sign of the patient due to the overhang of the 400-ft cliff (Sherricombe Gut) I then proceeded down the cliff with the first-aid kit, being dir ec t e d by a bystander who had seen th e accident. The approximate height from the top of the cliff to the patient was 250ft.
Upon arrival at t he patient (a holidaying teenager who had been rock-climbing with two friends) I treated him for shock and examined him for injury I noted he had head injuries which I dressed accordingly. He stated he could not move his left arm, so I treated for suspected fracture. (It subsequently proved to be fractured) I examined his back and found no injury and it caused the patient no pain I took his pulse on his suspected injured arm, and on his good arm. Then I sent a message by the by-stander to Corporal Belcher st ating the injuries of the patient Corporal Belcher
BY THE EDITOR
APPOINTMENTS
Priory for Wales-Lad y Traherne retired as Ch. Supt.
Bucks-Mr. R. T. Woombell vacated appo in m ent Com. Cen mral Area , Cam bridge and transferred to Cty. Pool, Bucks.
Derby-Mr. H. Elli s appointe d Com. Derwent Area.
Cumberland-Group Captain Frank
Aikens AFC to Commander St. John Ambulance Cumberland a nd Westmorland.
Herefordshire- Chairma n St. 1. Co un cil - Lord Croft.
Hertftndshire-Mr. G. H. Smi t h resigned as Com. Western Area.
Kent-Dr A. Chalmers ap po inted Cty. Sgn. vice Mr. R. H. Percival to Cty Pool.
Staffs-Chairman of St. 1. Council
Major S. 1. Harvey
Warwickshire-Mi ss C. Orton retired as Cty. Supt.
Wiltshire-Li eut. Colonel R E. W. John so n OBE, TD. to Commander st. John Ambulance.
Major L. 1. T. G. Bartlett r esigned as Com. Northern Area.
could see me so I signalled by arm movements that w e cou ld not carry t h e patient up the cliff, the helicopter would be needed.
For the next hour-and-three-quar t e rs I stayed on the cliff face with the patient, checking pulse , etc.
During this period the Fire Servi ce, the Coast Guards and Supt. Wheeler fro m SJ A Ilfracombe had a rr ived at the top of the cliff.
When the h e licopter appeared on the scene one of the Coast Guards, Supt. - Wheeler, and two or three firemen ca me down to assist me The circling helicopter dropped a Neil Robinson rescue stretcher, and we l oaded the patient on to the stretcher. The helicopter then came in low again a nd winched the patient aboard to take him to the North Devon Infirm ary.
Ambulance crew: Driver D. Alsford ; Attendants Crp!. F Belcher and Cadet Sgt. Trevor D. Butler; Nurse Mrs M. Phillips.
THANKS, SAYS A HORSE
The fo llow ing news comes from Mrs. Sylvia Wicks, superintendent of Andover Hants, N urs ing Cadet Division:
When I arrived at the youth club whelie [ WOlfk on a Thursday evening, ] saw in a fie1d what looiked like a yOU!JilJ g girl h aving trouble with !her horse, an d be i ng a very nosey Br!i.gade member I went across to find she was covered in blood. Apparently her ho r se had tried to jump a
barbed-wire fence and cu t its stomach open.
I fetched some large dressings from th e car and we a pplied direct pressure on the wound while someo n e r a ng for the vet.
When he a rrived I applied pre ssure while the girl held the horse's head ; the vet then gave the poor animal an injection and in abo u t two minutes it fell to the ground.
The girl then applied pressure while the vet and I scrubbed-u p in a bucket of water brought from the youth club. We arranged green sterile towels around the wound, then the vet lo oked for the bleeding point while I swabbed.
Wh e n th e severed artery was found and stitched I cleaned the woun d and then the vet stitched it - a gash about 10 inches by 7 inches.
After the vet had given the horse another inj ectio n , it staggered to its feet apparently non e the worse for its experience.
Subsequent enquiries revealed that the horse is now as well as ever.
HONOURS FOR ....
Christine Harrington was a member of the Braintree , Essex, Nursing Cadet Division Cadet Sgt Trevor Butler of Combe Martin presented with cup for courage and leadership See story A CLIFF HANGER (Photo J. Sharp. Combe Martin)
a nd Nursing Division from 195 9 to her leaving Braintree to go to Sheffield University She was a cadet leader and a member of a cup winning team in the 1963 county first-aid competitions.
Recently she qualified as a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery at Sheffield University Medical Sch ool. She was one of four students to obtain the degree with honours, gaining at the same time distinction in medicine and surgery . Earlier in the year she won the prize medal in clinical medicine and surgery and the prize for mental diseases. She has since been awarded a share in the West Riding practitioners prize and the bronze medal for the best fin al year student.
On July 27 Dr. Harrington visited her old division and gave a talk to the cadets on careers in the hospital service. It was a fitting a nd moving finale to her talk when she invited the cadets to join her in saying
the
a few words
Miss Le eks, cou nty cadet officer, was unable to be present and sent a personal message The cadets gave Dr. Harrington a card of congratulations signed by all
A young man screamed, then collapsed, writhing with pain and frantically clutching rus chest where a large wound showed through his torn shirt. His face was ashen and he showed all the signs of severe shock. In neighbouring houses seventy-four other men and women boys
Nuneatofl nursing division winners - (I to r) Miss Kate Groves (who has been crippled with ill ness for years), Mrs Pushpa Patel, and Mrs Elsie Edge (recently made a serving sister) (Photo: Nuneaton Evening Tribune) and girls, shrieked, groaned, flung themselves on the ground, kicked spasmodically, wandered round in a dazed state or lay ominously still: they were providing realistic casualties for 'Operation Aircrash'.
This mock disaster, the second large scale training exercise organised in recent months by SJ A western area of Somerset, involved ambulance, nursing and cadet divisions from Taunt on, Chard, Wellington, St. AudFies and Minehead.
Also taking part were SJ A's cou n ty nursing officer, Mr. W Porter (matron of Taunton and Somerset Hospital) nursing staff at East Rea ch Hospital ; Mr. Eddie Oaten and his Casualties Group, Taunton; Mr. and Mrs. Roy Tucker and members of Bath Casualties Union; Mrs. Joyce Liddon and six ladies of the WRVS and a stalwart team of rescue workers from SEVO.
At 3pm on a cold and very wet Saturday on the Moorfields Estate, Story OPERATION AIRCRASH A 'casualty' is examined by Div Supt. Miss Greta Crocker and D.O. Mrs. Anne Condick (Photo: L. G Charrett, Taunton)
Taunton, where two groups of erected houses a good repJfesentation of a dis aster area, resicil:el1lts heard a loud exp losi o n. Oper atiGm Aircrash h a d b egun
The disa ster was concei ved by Mr. F. W. Murkin, county training officer, whose n arrative read:
'Two aircraft from a nearby airbase h ave collided over Taunton. The planes disintegrated on imp act with the ground. Many casualties have b een reported in the area of Moorfields Estate. A control post h as been es tablished near Taun ton Football Ground. East Rea ch Hospit a h as been alerted a nd will receiv e the casual ties'.
SJ A personnel attending a weekend conference being supposedly held a t a nearby school were immediately briefed by Colonel D Ion Beath, area commissioner. Within minutes ambulances were on their way.
At the con trol post, entry and exit were carefully regu la ted, and a tally clerk was appointed to k eep a register of casualties. Dr. Winifr e d Kingsbury acting area surgeon, and Dr. Michael Glanvill, divisional surgeon, Chard, assisted by steel-helmeted SEVO men, quickly assessed the situation and soon three first-aid parties were fully operational, acting under the dir ect ion of Mr. Murkin and Mr. R E. Powell , area staff officer.
Three ambulan ce collecti ng poi n t s were set up under Mrs. J ean Hodge , area nursing officer . Here priorities were decided , essential treatment given, walking cases quickly d espatche d by hospital cars (the area commissioner and a rea president , Mrs. Eve Stancomb, at the wheel) and stretcher cases were carefully tended until ambulances were available.
Meantime Mrs. Elma Morrison, area superintendent, had assembled 30 nursing members at East Reach Hospital and with Miss Murray , sister in charge of the Accident Centre, allocated to them their various duties. Re ce ption and waiting areas and exa m i nation and tre at ment r'or stretcher and walking cases were designated , and the bed situation was assessed.
At 3.20pm the first ambulance arrived with two seriously wounded patients, one with blast i njuries of the chest, the ot her with an amputated righ t arm. Hospital cars brought walk i ng cases in quick succession, and soon outpatients' department was a hiv e of activity. Under Mr. Porter's watchful eye, and with Sister Smith and Sister Calloway giving instructions and carrying out th e more a dvanced procedures an air of calm efficiency prevailed. Burns were dress ed, wound s sutured and fractures immobilised.
Two cases of fractured shafts of femur were admitted to Liddon Ward wh ere traction was applied, and a fractured forearm was encased in a 'back-slab' in the plaster room.
At Disp e rsal Point Mrs. C. Vernon
with the aid of nursing cadets directed the discharg e d walking cases to the temporary welfare centre set up in nearby Trinity c hurch ha m l. Welcome hot drinks and light food were dispen se d by Mrs Liddon and h e r WRVS team.
By 4.45pm all casualties wer e cle a red from the site and at 5.15 pm Outp atie nts' D e partment had been restored to normal. Even the clay mud from Moorfields h a d been swabbed from the floors
Two incidents show how realistic was the whole exercise. An elderly man was found flushed and snoring behind a pile of rubble in an upstairs room. No number e d casualty tag could be found on him and his patient-behaviour was so good that Dr. Glanvill wondered whether he might be a real casualty. Only on the way to the ambulance did a first-aider recognise h im as a member of our sister service who had come to swell the casualty-list
The secon d i n ci d e nt occurred in Outp atie nt s' Department in the waiting area , where nurses fo und a rea l patient with a la cerated hand among the simulated cas u alties. Hi s friend who accompanied him explained : 'We were sure this was t h e right place wh en we saw these two other chaps co ming in. One h ad a black eye and the other a band aged leg '. Needless to say the l ace rat e d hand was promptly dressed.
At the conclusion of the exercise all thos e participating assemb l ed in Trinity church hall for refreshments provided by the WRVS. Colone l Beath introduced the county commissioner, Colonel W. D. H. Duk e, who addressed the company a nd congratulated h e Western Area on a fine performa nce. A sh ort critique wa s given
by m e dical and nursing referees and ques tions answered. Mrs. Morrison, expressed the thank s of St. John Ambulance to th e hospital staff, to the other organisations taking part.
The hunt is on for hairdressers, in the London borough of Lewisham , who would be prepared to go to those people who cannot go to them th e handicapped. A CO;1stant problem for people who are housebound because of disability is how to cope with the simple necessities of life like shopping and having one's hair done. The Lewisham Association for the Handicapped keeps a register of hairdressers and barbers who are prepared to go to the homes of disabled people, but the list has been shrinking lately and it is hoped to build up a borough-wide register so that each hairdresser can be given a list of customers in his immediate area.
Handicapped people are not asking for charity. A scale of fees for work has been agreed between the Association and listed hairdressers and barbers.
Th e Association is hoping that retired hairdresse rs , who h a ve some time to spare, will be able to help. Both male and female disabled people are in need of this service.
As
BY MISS W. E. HECTOR, RNT, MPhil, GIVEN
'I AM GOING to suggest that there is an area of our relations with patients in hospital, in accidents or in the home in which we can This most important subject of communication bet w€en doctors, nurses and their patients was examined with great understanding by Miss Hector. In times of emergency it was obvielUsly more important to take swift action, rather than to hold a meaningful conversation with a patient, Miss Hector said. But these dramatic moments w€re rare compared with all the minor encounters between the doctor or nurse and the patient.
Complaints about the doctor or nurse/patient relationship were, she thought, almost always about this failure of communication; for example: 'They never ten you anything' Recently Miss Hector had been watching for many hours a film for a series of television programmes about nurses at work, and had realised how small was the vocabulary in which nurses addressed patients. 'How many cliches and sterotypes we use, the paucity of thought and perhaps worst, the shallowness of feeling that allows us to talk in this way' As an example she quoted thg apparently thoughtless phrases: 'Fine', 'O.K.', 'Jolly good', 'Just a little prick'. She discovered that nurses were startled when asked what was meant by 'Reassure the patient', for they began detailed accounts of things no one would dream of saying in real life. There was a world of differenee between 'We're going to stick a n€edle into your chest and draw off the fluid' arod 'You'll feel much more comfortable when we have drawn off the fluid, you won't feel it'. How different the use of words by the midwife in Exodus to the woman obstructed by labour: 'Fear not; thou shalt bear this child also'
Miss Hector thought the words used might have more power than was realised. She went on to deseribe hIDw a traiJned nurse had begun to have epi1eptic fits of SOIlile severity. In the confusional states which followed, she was told that she must expect to be forgetful in her work
12
because her brain had been affected, and what a 'tragedy' her state was Now to her there was nothing tragic about it; she was quite unaware of the fits and their consequences, they were just a gap in the day for her and she could not understand that it could be a tragedy. Seized with the idea that she had a brain tumour, she insisted upon seeing a consultant, which affronted her doctor and deepened the gulf of misunderstanding between her and her doctors and nurses
Another frequent cause of misunderstanding Miss Hector thought was the patient's misinterpretaiton of medical phrases: 'Your boy has broken his leg '. 'Broken? The doctor said it was fractured' Terms such as tumour and swelling, to them immediately suggested cancer. For this reason, Miss Hector thought doctors should be particularly careful in their choice of words . To many lay people the fear of cancer was just below the surface - a sort of folk memory which had hardly changed with advances in medicine. The medical profession did not always realise that for example, to the patient colostomy was still a dreadful operation; they must take pains to explain about modern methods of and so allay the patient's fears.
As the patient misinterpreted medical terms, so doctors and nurses sometimes misunderstood the questions they were asked. The seemingly ridiculous question , if further examined could indicate the real anxiety lying beneath it. 'Is it a 'he' or 'she' abscess?' Here, the patient was trying to discover whether there would be a recyrrence: if a 'she' abscess there would be litHe ones.
Another most important factor concerning all human relationships, Miss Hector conside r ed, was the ability to listen She had often been struck by the importance of this aspect of communication, and the necessity for leWng patients talk, from which it was possiIDle to catch thie real dept ih of feel[ngs, obtainaMe in no other way
Many people she had visited had talked with obvious relief and she had always been asked to r eturn. Anyone would talk
by John Knox
provided there was a good listen er. To illustrate this point Miss Hector played two recordings made by patients who gave dramatic and moving accounts of the ways in which they had surmounted tragic circumstances caused by illness. Tremendous pressure lay behind people's need to communicate and these examples revealed much that would never otherwise have been known Commun ic ation w as rarely an affair of straight questions and answers. Every doctor knew that if a patient said on leaving 'Oh, by the w ay .... . this was what he had really come about The patient who asked 'Am I going to die?' might mean 'Tell me the truth' or Plea se tell me No'. Unless one had a f ir m theory that everyone must be told the truth, one repeated the question with sympathy, asked why the patient felt that way, and gave him an opportunity to express what he really felt. In this way, i t might be possible to determine what lay behind his question
Miss Hector thought that doctors should be parti c ul a rly careful of the way in which they told patients they were to be deprived of organs or limb s. Some phrases used were deplorable in their jocularity and often upset the patient. In all their dealings with patients it was essential, Miss Hector said, that doctors and nurses should feel for them. *
During the discussion that followed this talk, one doctor said that the terse comments mentioned by Miss Hector were, he thought, often made to hide a doctor's discomfiture, alild did not necessarily indicate poverty of feeling. Another delegate thought that the fault lay in poor teaching methods . Students were not made aware of the ways in which patients could be affected by a doctors manner, which was often patronising; matters were not discussed th e patient, but in front o f him. Miss Hector agreed tha t communticah on with patients need not necessarily be verba1 much could be conveyed by a sympathetic manner.
EXERCISE 'ST. JOHN DUNELM' was organised by the East Durham area committee of the Brigade under the control of the Area Commissioner Dr. J. B Hayco ck, a long with senior memb ers of the Durham county police and fire brigade, who were members of the planning committee
The story of the exercise was that on Saturday May 2 1970 at 2 .15 pm a two-seater light aeroplane flying n orth along the north east coast of the County of Durham developed an engine fault and the pilot de cided to turn south west in an endeavour to land at the Sunderland Flying Club's airfield This m ea nt flying over a built-up area on the west side of the mining village of Boldon Colliery, and losing height, the aeroplane crashed on to the roofs of three streets of houses. Finally , the plane's wing was ripped off and it crashed on to waste gro und and caught fire.
This re sulted in 78 casualties; these casualties w ere prep ared in t h e Bold o n Miners' Hall starting at 11.30 a m The slightly injured were made-up first; the severely injured, such as amputations, bowel protrusions, etc., being left un til it was almost time to proceed to the scene. Identified by a number, each casualty was provided with a report form fo r comments on treatment.
In order to give each Corps a fair share of work in the exercise, 25 casualties with similar injuries were placed in each of the three streets, with three severely injured in an overturned car.
The alarm was raised at 2.30prn by a 99'9 call to Durham county police headquarters who notified their patrol cars in the vicinity to proceed to the scene and also info r med the Hebburn
station of the Durh a m county fire brigade of the accident.
Realising the magnitUde of the disaster the p olice immediately brought their plan of action into operation calling for reinforcements setting up of an in cident post , and opening the medical centre and canteen for the reception of casualties.
The SJ A South Tyne Corps, Sunderland Corps, and Mid East Durham Corps were assembled in the Boldon Colliery canteen and were summoned to the incident by a police patrol car. Tak i ng into consideration the geographical location of each Corps, and the time the exercise was scheduled to run, it was decided there would be a lO-minute interval between the arrival on the scene of each Corps.
On arrival the corps superintendent reported for duty to the SJA liaison officer, who after consultation with the police incident officer, deployed his Corps to their duty in the street alloca ted to them. There were houses on fire, and in some of them trapped casualties. The fire brig a de's part in the exercise was to rescue trapped casualties from the houses and a ca r, and to put out the fires in the houses and the aeroplane.
By arrangement during the planning stage all first-aid treatment was to be don e by SJ AB personnel. A cl earing station was organised adjac e nt to the scene where the casualties were segreg a ted and according to their injury were transported to hospital (medical centre) by NCB ambulance or to the minor injuries treatment centre (canteen) by NCB personnel carrier. The hospital was equipped with 25 beds and staffed entirely by Briga de personnel:
doctor, state registered nurses, registrars for admission and discharge. Arrangements in the minor treatment centre being similar to those at the hospital.
The Durham County Womans Police Casualty Identification Bureau also took p art in the exercise. By previous arrangement, 'next of kin' of some casualties made anxious telephone calls to police headquarters giving name address and a brief description of the person they were enquiring about; it was left to members of the Identification Bureau to locate them.
While the exercise was in progress two members of the NCB North Durham area casualty simulation group were shooting 8mm film ; one con ce ntrated on all indoor shots, such as the Miners Hall where casu alties were being prepared, the hospital and the minor injuries centre, whil e the other member concentrated filming outdoors - the scene before the exercise, during, and finally the streets being cleared of debris after the exercise. The film was edited and a tap ed commentary was made by another member of the simulation group Played together this film gives a fair impression of the magnitude fo the exercise Divisions or Corps may borrow the film and tape free from Mr. John Knox , Training Officer, National Coal Board, Durham Division No.1 Area, Boldon Colliery , Co Durham.
The exercise which finished at 4 30pm when all who took part were invited to the Boldon Colliery Miners Hall for tea , was a tremendous success In all approximately 450 personnel were involved.
FOR EXTRACTING A CASUALTY WITH A FRACTURED SPINE FROM A VEHICLE
by E. C. Dawson, OStJ,
MB, SS, JP,
Area Surgeon
TO MANY FIRST-AlDERS the difficulty in extracting a seriously injured casualty from within a damaged motor vehicle has been one that has often been shelved in the hope that they are never confronted with such a problem. Most Brigade surgeons and nursing officers have been asked the question 'How does one extract a casualty with a fractured spine from a seriously damaged motor vehicle?' Unfortunately the manual gives very little information except to say that movement of the spine must be avoided at all times
The problem of course is made worse when the casualty is unconscious and sitting hunched over the steering wheel. Being unconscious, the casualty is unable to tell you of any pain in the spine; any limitation of movement of the spine; any paralysis and loss of sensation in any limb; consequently, any unnecessary movement of the casuaH y by t he first-aider may turn a simple fracture of a vertebra into a fracture di.slocation with paralysis
It is important therefore to realise that the unconscious casualty within a motor
vehicle may have a fractur e of one of the cervical vertebrae as well as of the lum bar spine, and therefore any unnecess a ry movement of the head and neck in extracting him may easily result in his death or in a fracture dislocation producing permanent paralysis of all four limbs.
In order to obviate this danger as far as possible the use of the cervical collar in conjuction with the short spinal splint is now advocated
'[' he use of these two pieces of equipment was first desc r ibed in this country by Dr. K. C. Easton of Yorkshire, in the British Medical Journal in 1968. They were previously described by Dr. 1. D. Farrington in the Bulletin of the American College of Surgeons in 1967.
The method was discussed in brief at the Fo mnd ati0Jn Medical Conference of T970, since wh.en in its use has been g(i)ing ahead slowly blat steadily withiTrl the Brigade
Equipment required: Cer vical collar: Made of sponge
rubber , covered in stockinet with a Velcro fastening 3ins wide and obtainable from S. H Camp & Co. Ltd., 13 Wadsworth Ro ad , Periv ale, Greenford, Middlesex, at a cost of £l.42.
Short spinal splint: The board is mad e of 9-ply wood, shaped as shown in Fig I , smoothed, varnishe d and waxed in order to facilitate sliding it into position.
One foam plasti c sponge: 9 x 5 x 3ins held in place by good quality rubbe r bands
Two 8ft long Britax safety b elts standard buckles. Obtainable from Britax (London) Limited , Proctor Works , Chertsey Road, Byfleet , Surrey. Cost £l.75 each.
A minimum of two t riangular bandages
The total cost of equipment is under £7.00 and therefore well within tlle pocket of all divisions owning an ambulance or ffi(i)bile unit.
The proced ure to be adopted when confronted with a serious motor vehicle accident resulting in an unconscious casualty is as follows:
fo re head with the bottom edge level with the eyebrows. Tie off behind t h e sp lint.
6, Apply a figure of eig h t bandage ro und the ank l es.
7. Apply the sa f e ty st r aps as s h own (Fig 2) and pull as tight as possible, the cas u a lty 's ar m s and h a nd s having been previously placed across his a bdom e n. It is imp ortant that the straps are originally placed d eep into the groin before they are tightened,
8. Using the hand grips cut in the board lift the casualty out of the car. This procedure requires at least 3 first-aiders, one o n each side of the board and one to contro l the leg s, and o n e if possible inside the car to gu i de the splin ted casua l t y ou t.
In cars with a centra gea r lever it is probably better to lift the cas ualty out feet first. In cars with automati c cha n ge it could well be mor e convenient to extract head fir st. Thi s i s r eally a problem that must be solved at the time.
1. Approac h the vehicle wit h cautio n in case of fire d e veloping, but if this does not occur within 30 seconds it is mo st unlik e ly to do so except in the pres e nce of naked lights.
2. Switch off the engine, app l y hand brake and disconnect the battery.
3. Apply the cervical sp lint
4. Place the short spinal s plint in po sition with the base of the board righ t d own o n th e seat and w ell below the level of th e sacrum.
5. After the applicat ion of a dequat e padding immobilis e the head with a n arrow fold bandage round the
Th e Hi gh Wy co mb e Ambu all ce Cade Divi sion were r ecent y proud to r ece iv e from Cdr. L.E. Peyton-Jon es RN th e Over seas Secretary of the Duke of Ed inbur gh's Award Scheme , this Ford Transit ambulan ce which was pu rchased aJld co nv erted [rom funds aised by m em bers of th e Duke o f Ed inburg h 's Award Sc h eme a n d SJA members.
Cdr. Pe yton-Jone s pr esented h e ambul a n ce to Dr. R. H Kipping, CS tJ, MB , ChB, Association County Director for Buck s. Funds for the a mbula n ce w e re raised by a gro u p of e nthu s iast ic yo un g people mo s t of whom are SJ A m embe r s tabng part in th e Duk e of Ed iNburgh' s Awru.-d Scheme und er J! Divisional Offi oer David A tkins of High ::J WYcomb e Ambulance Cadet Division and Ambulan ce Memb e r John MortJo c k of High B WYcomb e Police Ambulan ce Division. Just over £550 was Jai se d by the gro up in two months a.
Once th e cas ualty is away from the car he can be lowered gently on to a stretc h e r. It will be noticed that due to the tightness of the straps his legs will be fl exed at the hips and knees. If h e remains unconscious, he must now be turned into the coma po si tion. If he regains consciou n sness he may be left on his back and it is then necessary to rel ease the te nsion of the straps so that the leg s can be straightened out and the st rap s re -applied as tight as is possib le without produ cing flexion at the hips.
The cas ualty is now transported, fully immobilised to hospital where h e ca n remain spl int ed until h e has been X-rayed, wh en he will be dealt with accordi n g to th e result. It is important to realise that it is not necessary for the casualty to be removed from the sp lint even while r adiographs are taken as the X-rays will pass t hrough the plywood.
Ma n y first-aiders hav e now been
trained in the use of this apparatus. There is no doubt that it offers a simple and effective method of immobilisation of the spine and head in the seriously inj ured during ex raction from any diffi c ult position and especia ll y from motor vehicles.
It is no t a piece of apparatus which should be applied too quickly nor by the inexperienced. It is essent ial that all who use it mus t h ave many hours of practice in applying it with the casualty i n many differ ent sit u atio ns
It is in wide use by the ambulance service, fire service a nd police on the motorways and is gradually being introduced into these services throuohout the rest of t h e country. It is imp;rtant that a ll members of the Brigade shou ld be come proficien t in its use and t h e method of its application.
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations. Although readers may sign published letters with a pen-name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
GRAND PRIOR'S BADGE
from G. Wootton, area superintendent (A)
With reference the letter appearing in the August Review from Cmps $uperintende11lt Edward Tortell Sliema Malta on the above, may I say that I heartily sup;ort the 'superintendent's opening paragraph, and trust that his voice in the wilderness raises a much more reverberating echo than my own, to be heard in the places where this matter may be given serious thought.
For some considerable time I have felt that the Grand Prior's Badge has been overshadowed by the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, in that the prospect of a visit to Buckingham Pala ce adds a glamour to the scheme, not to be experienced by those who gain the Grand Prior Badge
I would be the last person to suggest that Buckhingham Palace should be the mecca of all young people of voluntary societies gaining our organisation's highest award, but h avirtg regard to the many members of the nobility and other VIP's connected with the Brigade, either as county presidents or vice presidents, I would suggest, as I have already done at Area and District lev el that th ese honourable members might well be invited to act Prince Philip in miniature, at some comparatively suitable place perhaps twice in year. It might be a better idea than a corporal of the adult division handing a Grand Prior Badge over to a 'lucky'(?) recipient.
Several young people in my own Area have gained both the Grand Prior Badge and the Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award - I wonder which gave them the greatest personal satisfaction? And whilst my suggestion mi ght not be so good after all, someone somewhere, may have the right idea. Burnley, Lanes. G. Wootton
POINTS TO PONDER
from Miss E Chester, corps superintendent (N)
I am prompted to write to the Review by two le tters in the August issue.
I have been a member of SJ A for 13 years joining as an II-year-old cadet and continuing my association as a nursing member while a student at a College of Education. Upon my return home I was promoted Divisional Superintendent of the Cadet Division to which I had belonged.
One of my complaints when I received my Grand Prior's Badge was that there was no certificate presented, neither was I able to wear a mufti badge although my friends gaining the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and Queen's Guide Badge had both. In fact, to explain to some uninitiated people, I had to say that the Grand Prior's Badge was SJ A's eq uilvalent to the Queen 's Guide Badge. It is now necessary to quote the date of the award of the Grand Prior's Badge when applying to sto res for a replacement. I was only able to find out the date of mine from my BF4 when I required a replacement.
Many people were surprised at a re ce nt annual i nspection, that when my sisteF was presente <il with her Grand Prior's Badge there was no certificate. Therefore I would agree with Mr. Tortell 's suggestion that there should be a certificate presented with the Grand Prior's Badge 18
With reference to Dr. Oakley John's letter regarding competitions: many of the judges I hav e come across particularly this year when I have been actively involved in the 'rat race ' which leads up to the Na tional Finals, ask for realism. Dr. John says that 'rea l first-aid consists of using initiative in a situation where there is tension' In my own experience, if a team does use initiative, they are given no c redit for it and sometimes even penalised! I know that competition rilles state that 'no part of th e uniform may be used'. How many members of SJA would be walking down a street in the rain (A) without coats, and (B) if they did come across a casualty, wou ld not use their coats to cover up the casua lty until shelter is available?
Another examp le : if a team is fac e d with two casualties near a burning house, is it realistic (A) to wait for a or a blanket rather than pull the casualty to safety along the ground and (B) instruct another member of the team to do the same for t h e other casua lty when the leader can see that this is being done instinctive ly by a well trained vice-captain ?
In the first examp le the team were lucky in that they were not penalised by having any marks deducted , but in the second examp le marks were deducted because they did not use th e method on the m arking sheet.
Is this the realism for which judges ask? I think the time has come for the whole structure of 'Brigade' competitions to be changed. We now have a far more superior method of casualty simulation than in former years. It should not be necessary for a team to find a casualty wit h an obviously flushed face and b e told that in actual fact one casualty should h ave a pale face! We also have far better stagings than before. Surely we can now b e mor e realistic about judging? If a first-aider would not do something at a real accident, why ask her to do it at a competition?
Just one more plea on this score. Please score setters, mak e sure the information the teams are given corresponds with what you set up. At one regional competition this year, a spectator had to point out that the stree t name on the set in no way res embled the name which the competitors had been told. A small point maybe , but in this particular competition there were many 'small points'.
Wakefield, Yorks. A. Elizab eth Chester
AMBULANCE CADET JACKET
fram E. Mordey, divisional superintendent
In his article 'Halt! Who goes there?' (A ugust Review) Corps Staff Officer R. E. Cooper states that for years he h as campaigned for an ambulance cadet jacket.
May I suggest t o Mr. Cooper that he obtain a copy of t h e Stores Department uniform pri ce list. An excellent publication, wherein will be found on page 4, the following item
U02600 Special Duty Jacket - Mens - also may be worn by Am bulan ce ea dets - Pri ce £3. 15.
This jacket is modelled on the battle dress blouse and I understand from the Stores Department that it h as b ee n availab le for at least seven years. Hunton, Maidstone E. Mordey
PROTEIN AND HEALTH (1966) (Colour 27 minsl
Distributed by: British Medical Association, BMA House, Tavistock Square London W.C .I.
Produced by: Flour Advisory Bureau
It explains the importance of protein and nutrition ; it deals with the composition of proteins from the various sources and discusses and illustrates some extreme effects of protein malnutrition.
The Piinel considered this an excellent film - well produced logical in sequence albeit somewhat l engthy. How ever, its content is addressed to a professional audience with medical knowledge.
Audience: medical, nursing, dieticians but a little too advanced for first-aiders.
DANGEROUS PLAYGROUND (1971) (Colour 16 m nsl
Distributed by : Central Film Library, Bromyard Avenue, London W.3.
Produced by : CO.I. and Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries & Food
Each year many young children are killed or injured in accidents on the farm. Forethought and supervision can often safeguard against such dangers as unattended machinery and farmyard chemicals.
The panel considered this a well-produced accident prevention film that makes its point in respect of the hazards to children in farm life competently. The exposition and colour are good but a little more punch in respe c t of accidents portrayed might have caused greater impact.
Audien ce: Of universal interest to the rural community; of great value to St. John in non-urban areas
JOURNEY TO JERUSALEM (1967) (Colour 12minsl
Distributed by: Sound Services Ltd Kingston Road , Merton Park, London S.W.19 and H.Q. St. John Ambulance
Produced by: Associated British-Pathe Ltd A document a ry. on the Order of St. John Ophthalmic Hospital in Jerusalem.
This film of the Hospital of St. John is of great interest not only to St. John personnel but also to the ge n eral public A beautifully produ ce d film it tends to spend a little too much footage on history and Middle East background and not quite enough upon the hospital.
Audience : Universal.
THE MIXTURE AS NEVER BEFORE (1965)
(Colour 30 minsl
Distributed by : Sound Services Ltd. Kingston Road Merton Park, London S.W.19
Produced by : British Oxygen Company
Entonox u sed as an analgesic in childbirth consists of a 50-50 mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen. The apparatus required and its act ual use in childbirth are demonstrated
The panel considere d this a splendid fi lm that has dual purpose for St. J (!lhn personnel - it exp lains the benefits of E ntonox and demonstr ates its usage but also the birth of the baby is shown clearly and graphically.
Audience: All nurses in training, nursing cadets and ambulance men.
RED RIVER OF LI FE (1958) (Colour 62 minsl
Distributed by: Fact & Faith Films, Falcon Court , 32 Fleet Street, London E.C.4
Produced by: Moody Institute of Science
Dr. Moon introduces the film by saying that for some time the Moody Institute of Science has been engaged in a most important
St. John Ambulance Film Appraisal Panel which meets fortnigh tly at Headquarters, consists of doctors, first aiders and visual aid experts who offer their services for this important aspect of visual aids It is intended to publish monthly reviews of those 16mm ilms recommended by the p.anel.
study, human life. He comments on the pictures of a new-born baby, and remarks how little the average man knows about himself. "Where is the centre of your life, in your heart, your brain , your lungs or even your stomach?"
The panel considered this 13 year old film is still the outstanding film dealing with the circulation of the blood. With superb cinema techniques, a splendid commentary and muted evangelism, this is an excellent production.
Of great interest and importance to all St. John personnel.
CITIZENS ALL: THE NURSE (1965) (Black & White 26 minsl
Distributed by: Central Film Library Acton, London W. 3.
Produced by: Department of Health & Social Security
A staff nurse of the Queen Alexandria Hospital , Portsmouth, describes and comments on her work as she goes about her duties and tells why she became a nurse. The Chief Nursing Officer of the Ministry of Health in an interview, discusses points arising from these comments, deals with the rewards and responsibilities of nursing.
The panel considered this Black & White film made at least 6 years ago is now out-of-date both from ci n ema technique and content view-point.
This obsolescent film is not recommended
THE CHEQUERED ROAD (1971) (Colour22minsl
Distributed by : Sound Serives Ltd, Kingston Road , Merton Park , London S.W .19
Produced by: Britax
Using the story of a game of chess between t wo symbolic figures, 'Doom' and 'Vigil', the film illustrates the advantages of the sponsor's seat belts.
The panel co n sidere d this a well made film that achieves its purpose in drawing the attention of both drivers and passengers to the necessity of wearing seat belts. Produced in a light vein it carries it s sp onsorship uno btrusively.
For general use as a programme 'filler'.
OUR WOR LD IS YOURS (1970) (Colour 22 minsl
Distributed by : Sound Services Ltd. Kingston Road , Merton Park, London S.W .1 9
Produced by : Wm Hamer Productions
The prob lems confronting the disab led in the 70s and how they can enjoy a full and happy life in spite of their hand icaps
The panel conside red this fil m suitable for its purpose of fund-raising, but felt the subject of the disabled can n ot be cove red in any depth by film; the technique is obvious and the film far too glossy. It is easy to evoke sympathy for the disabled but difficult to initiate practical help.
Of great interest to St. John personnel engaged in work of this nature.
THAT THEY MAY LIVE (1960) (Colour 19mins)
Distributed by: Gateway Educational Films Ltd 470 Green Lane LondonN .13 "
Produced by : Pyramid Films
This film demonstrates the method of artificial respiration that is now being wi d ely accepted as quicker a nd more certainly effective than that u se d hitherto. This method is direct mouth-to-mouth breathing. A numb er of accidents are shown each concluding with the saving of life by this means
The panel considered this film dated in cinema technique and colour only; the mouth-to-mouth resuscitation portrayed is still valid even though the film was made more than a decade ago
Of interest to all St. John personnel and to first-aid classes generally.
Princess Anne receives the key of the new St. John House, EGJinburgh, at; the opening €eremony, as reported in last month's Review (Photo:
THIS MONTH, when all seems to be quiet Gn the northern fr:ont, I plan t01 examine a question that is sometimes' raised by members of the Order. I know that there are some - particularly here in Scotland where there is a deep-rooted and traditional antipathy to vain pomp and glory' - who are suspicious of the part played by ceremonial in the life of the Order. Of what relevance to the care of the sick, they ask, are solemn rituals in which senior members dress themselves up in useless but expensive paraphernalia?
And apart from the buying of cloaks, banners, swords of honour and decorations, the hiring of halls and the preparation of chapter and committee rooms eat up cash that should be employed in the Order's pliimary task, while tmere is energy, care and thought expended on rehearsals and mganisation that w cmld be better directed elsewh.ere. This attitude, I am glad to say, is not prevalent. But it exists. And it should be said at once that although those who hold it have a point, it is one wJ;1ich in my view is superficial. In fact I shall risk their: wrath by suggesting that we clio mot take our ceremonies seriously eliliQ ugh!
1m. the firslI place we Ollie members of a charitable Oliganisation is quite unlike others, for we are members of an Order of the Crown that claims a very long history The traditions both of royal 20
orders and of the Order of St. John are ones in which solemn ceremonial and a distinctive uniform play an i mportant part. Drawing on both traditions the Order is intimately mould e d by them and those who suggest that we should renounce cere monies must face the fa c t that they are proposing that we alter it s character - and a style that attracts many of our recruits. No bad thing, they might answer , and they might argue t hat in the end we would gain more by doing so, But are they right?
Our ceremonies are not ends in themselves if they were their opponents would hav e a stronger casebut they have two purposes. They visibly and obviously raise the morale of our members, for there is some deep instinct in man that draws him to colour and so lemnity. But far more important than ourselves is their effects on oth.ers To put it at its crudest our Order has a precious advantage: public ceremonies are the best and the cheapest way of advertising our presence and putting ourselves in the news. Compare the proportion of its revenue that a modern charity has to spend 0Ji1 advelitiJsing with the resuHs we simply by appeaFing in We do not h.ave to buy sp ace ]n tihle newspapers; we hav.e only to put on robes that once bought are not a recurring expense and parade down a street to get free coverage.
And so the robes and banners, the sword and the decor at ions are not o nly expressions of a n esprit de corps, they are investm e nts a nd ce re moni es are not mer ely empty pomp they h elp to publicise our activit i es. If my rea der s hav e followed me so far, two further points will h ave al r eady struck them. First, it is in our interest to take our ritual very serio u sly and to carry i t out as well as possible, fo r on our performance d epen ds to some extent our public image: our D i r ecto r of Ceremonies, Alistair Montgomerie, needs every support, for his is a mo st importan t t ask. Secondly her e is an argument for suggesting that OUI cere monies co uld not only be made more colourful, bu t that we should also take every opportunity that presents itself for per fo rming them. At the moment they tend to tak e place in those centres where a re our supporters, But in doing this we are preaching to the converted. Is there any reaso n why we should not extend our ce remonial activities to other parts of Scotland b y attending commemoration services and anniversaries in towns where our presenc e has no t yet been f elt? I am sure tha n: we would by this a nd [blat rather [Iran of or down our own special advantages, we should exploit them for all they are worth.
All aboard for camp! St. I ves, Cornwall, nursing cadets set off for camp near Bodmin at the home of their county nursing Superintendent Princess Chula Chakrabongse (Photo: S. Bennett, St ves)
DERBYS-On July 20 Staveley Wor ks Ambulance Corps held an enrolment cer emony at Hollililgwood c!lluch, nr. Cfuesterfield, with a parade of the Corps, about 100 men, women, boys and girls. They were headed by Stav eley Works band and the O.C. was Div. Supt. Pr att. At he church th e. boys a nd girls of Staveley Corps were join e d by nursing cadets of Chesterfield and Sheep bridge divisions. Mrs. M. Anderson, county staff officer nur sing cadets, was in charge of th e e nrolment at which 33 youngsters joined SJ A.
NORTHANTS-On Augu s 13 to 15 th e national rally of boat s was held on th e River Nene at Northampton, an d th e Kin gs thorp e a mbul a nc e and nur si ng divisions were pr ese nt with their mobil e unit. Over 50,000 people vi sited the rally , nearly 600 boats were tied up on the riv er, a nd on one day alone 42 pati ents were treat ed at t he unit. The two division s also put on a display when a fa mily was 'rescued' from a narrow boat. The woman was cooking when the frying
Jobs for cadets. Medeshamstede members 1A with their superintendent Mrs. E. M. Dun k ley now help organise the Peterborough Panel of the National Blood l'ransfusion Service (Photo: The Evening Telegraph)
Middlesbrough cadets receive profic ie ncy certificates from Miss Jean Adams, county staff officer for nurs ng cadets. 19 youngsters were enrolled in the division recently. (Photo: Evening Gazette, Middlesbrough)
(L) Work in gton Combined Division's new vice -pres ident Mrs. Patricia de Redder (right) was presented recently with her warran by M iss Mary You ng, cou nty staff officer, with Workington Reds football club manager Mr G Aitken. (R) Workington's AIM Philip Rossall was in the SJA party which recently visited Sylt, Germany, as guests of JUH.(Photo West Cumberland Times)
pan caugh fire, causing extensive to face am] arms; the father panicked and fe'll into t he and their lit le boy had to be treated fO F shock. While one amhlulance member removed uniform (he was dressed for a swim) and dived into the river, the ambulance was contacted by radio. The man received burns to the f ace so Silvester method of respiration had to be used. The casualties were removed by ambulance to th e mobile unit.
The programme was divised by Div. Supt. N. Boyling and 10 mem bers took part.
NORTHUMBERLAND-Under the chairmanship of Dr. E. J. Samuel, divisionai surgeon Westerhope Nursing Divi sion, a new County fund rai sing committee has been formed which has already organised a cockta il party and barbecu e-d iscoth eq ue evening. The County's first annual balJ is plann e d for January 14 1972 and will be attended by the Lord Mayor.
The new committee is also revitalising SJ A public relations in thi s area, with help from local radio and it s hoped Tyne Tees TV.
A new ca det division a t Thra ckl ey was star ted recently (see picture) and so me of its members attended the civic reception at Newcastle upon Tyne for the recent vi sit of Princess Anne.
SUFFOLK-At about 6.50am on July 26 ambulanceman Harold Stephens (Gippeswyk Division, Ip sw ch) saw a large house on fire in the town. With the help of the occupant of the ground floor flat of the hou se, Mr. Stephens obtained a ladd er and from a seco nd-floor window res c ued Mr. and Mrs. Vinyard and th e ir baby from the top-floor flat.
Meanwhile th e tenants of the first-floor flat Mr. and Mrs. Reeves and their two-year-o ld daughter had jumped from a window and were aU injured Mr. Reeves suffered a broken leg burns and shock; Mrs. Reeves and h er daughter injurie s and burns. Mr. Stephens treat e d th ese casualties before the ambulance and fire brigade arrived. The Ch ief Offi ce r Suffolk and Ipswich Fire Service ha s sent a letter of thank s to Mr.
OBITUARY
REVI EW CROSSWORD N o. 10 (71) Compiled by W. A Potter
ACROSS:
1. Alec upset with food allocation cut. (l0). 8. Receives blood from venae cavae or pulmonary veins (6) 9 First-aid revolutionary turned out. (5). 10. Follows 21 Down for common site of fracture 0f humerus (4) 11. Code of professional conduct for doctor and nurse (6). 12 . Structure lying in the neural canal (6.4) 14. Arrangement of duel follows no small lump (6). 17. Be around colletion gf animals returning for alcoholic drink (5) 18. One hears sticky application for 10 Across is a delicious drink. (6). 20. Makes a bitter pill more palatable to swallow (6). 22 Does not inelude moist malformation (5). 23. Comment referring to a distinguishing feature (6). 26. Sapping strength getting rid of waste gases (10). 28. Street artist finally in injury to muscle or tendon (6). 30. Early man's island (4). 31. A reminder of bygone days (5) 32. May be fractured in a severe sprain of the ankle (6) 33. Reflex elicited by painful stimuli made , very likely, at the bank (10).
DOWN:
1. One's temporal period (4-4) 2. 10 Across of the uterus (6) 3 Artery extending from a centre (6) 4. Medicine for spasm of muscle in prolonged contraction (5). 5. Take snake's end for natural state (9) 6. Cunning part of aorta (4). 7. Physique of circus stwng man (8). 13. Broken tool hit calearcous particle concerned with sense of position and balance (7) 15. Should not be disturbed if sleeping, we are advised (4) 16 Source of recent eruptions (4).17. Job we rank felf facial injury (6.3) 19. Type of shock to choose before recent injury clinic (8). 21. Ward in which one is likely to be after a theatre visit (8). 24. He demands abnormal interest (6) 25 Case for a bed (6). 27. Hygienic procedure at the level of the waves (5) 29. Sun returns tQ a part of alimentary canal (4).
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 9-71
ACROSS:
1. Oestrogen; 9. Fibula; 10. Balm; 11. Peel; 12. St.a.ti c; 13 Pertussis; 14. Germ.an; 19. Ten; 21. Amylase; 22 Iridium; 23. Act; 25. Preci s; 29. Parotitis; 30. Tetany; 32. Tidy; 33. Eggs; 34. Ozaena ; 35. Olfactory.
DOWN:
2. Enamel; 3. To.ma.to; 4. Op.pose; 5. Eserine; 6 Dip the.ria ; 7. Hurt; 8. Carcinoma; 15. Maim; 16 Palpation; 17. Type; 18. Malignant; 19. Tea; 20. Nit; 24. Cranial; 26. Coryea; 27. Diges t ; 28. Ginger; 31. Tear.
24
Div. Supt. Wm Bridson thanks Cumberland Coal Queen Judith Hargrives for helping in Whitehaven Combined Division's recent collection Miss Emily Nugent - E i leen Derbyshire, of 'Coronation Street' TV fame receives treatment for a wasp sting from Div Supt A G. Passe, of Glamorgan's Morlais Ambulance D ivi,sion, at a recent carnival
Derbyshire's
'Savlon' Liquid and 'Savlon' Cream are indispensable to your first-aid kit. They gently clean away dirt, killing the germ.s that would infect the wound. The antIseptics in both products are powerful, safe. They were discovered by ICI and are now used extensively by doctors and hospitals in this country and overseas.
SAY
Extra Large Dressing p.7 Aro und and About by the Edi tor p.8
Map Read in g by C A. Shildrick p.12
F irst·Aid Competitions 1972 p. 13
Re aders' Views p.14
Re suscitation, by Frank F rew in p 17
SJA's V isua l Aids Service, by Dr C. C. Mol lo y p.18
Films p . 1S
News from Scotland p.20
Th at was camp 1971 that was: Northants p.2l
Ne ws fr om the Divisions p,22
THIS IMPORTANT talk was given by Secretary-General Mr. N. C. McClintock, at Pre s ident s' Conference held in London on October 6: the the As announced i n the Review last month , we have been given the Christmas Day Television Appeal on BBC I This is an oppor tunit y that comes once in a lifetime , so we mu st make the most of it.
The BBC say the success of these appeals depends on: ( 1) The film itself must hit the jackpot , and (2) The cha ri ty concerned must have made good arrangements for action both before and after the appeal.
There is nothing much we can do about ( 1 ), but there is plenty we can do about (2).
Welling
Street LSI 2DE Tel. 0532 39602
LIVERPOOL: Camden Street Tel. 051·207 1565
: 36 King Street M2 6BA Tel. 061-834 4322
UPON-TYNE: 105 Pilgrim Street NEI 6QF Tel. 0632 26722 PLYMOUTH : 103 Tavistock Road , Drake Circus Tel. P1ym outh (0752) 63755
S'HAMPTON: 35-36 Oxford Street S09 3SD Tel. 0703 25916
STOCKPORT : 109 Shaw Heath (Head Office) Tel. 061-480 2859 & 2132
EDITOR FRI\NK DRISCOLL. 26 Pembroke Gardens. London, W 8. (01 -6038512)
ADVERTISEMENTS : T , G Scott & Son Ltd
1 C eme nt 's I nn L ondon, WC2A 2ED (01 2426264 and 0 1 405 4743)
Pri c e 12p
COVER:
£1.7 0 per annum, including postage from Treasurer Order of St John 1 Grosvenor Crescent, London S W 1.
But first let me explain h ow we see thi s Appeal in the context of o ur finances today. I n the last ten years expenditure from central funds of the Order has exactly doubled. In come has gone up by on ly one third. Reserves of the Order have gone down by one third. This is despite every effort in recent years t o economise on expenditure and to raise funds. I do not need to tell you that this si tu ation cannot go on. I do not know in detail how you a r e situa t ed in the Counties , but I should be surprised if you have not been hit by the same economic factors as we have. I do not expect to hear that you are entire l y sat isfied with your financial affairs or prospects. Therefore we have concluded that th e situation demands a nationwide sllstained and sOllnd programme of fund raising in the years ahead. A programme designed to raise funds a nd arouse new interest in St. John not only for HQ but for the Counties ; more for the Counties than HQ because in total you need more than we do. A programme not for any sectional interest, but one by St. John as a who le/or St. John as a whole. Every fund-raising effort in the past has come up agai n st the seemingly imp enetrab le barrier of ignorance about St. John , what it is and what it does. We must break through this barrier in to the wide fields beyond, to the general public who have never heard of us. Therefore we applied for this television appea l. This wi ll allow us to tell and show our story t o 15 million people - 14 million of whom will probably never have heard it before.
So we do not look on this appeal as simply one event dropped into the calend a r of this year. No. This is the starter of t h e su stained a nd sound progr a mme mentioned above and which must be made to flO'N on smoothly from it. This is stage 1. Stage :2 is tile exploitation of the public i ty we shall have h a d from stage 1 We shall make fo r you unlimited c opies of a longer - 1 5-20 minutes - film. If this is u sed to best advantage against the background of the massive pub li city we sha ll have had from the television fi lm , it shou ld bring in good profit. We sh a ll give you good
went to Cominco Ltd., Kimberley, representing the East Kootenay area.
In the junior competition, the girls' even t was won by the St. John Am bulance team from Victoria, while first place in the boy s' event went to Cumberland. Trail Air Cadets placed second in the boys' event and Bluebell Girls came seco nd in the girls ' .
(Amove) H.E. The Governor General Sir Leonard Williams, GCMG, presents the insignia of Officer of the Order to Mr. Guy Ohis, BSc, Commissioner for Mauritius. (Right) St. John's Day, 1971, the Governor General inspects the islancl parade of the Elr gade
There were accidents galore at Capilano Stadium, Vancouver, recently: Electric shock, broken legs, ruptured spleens, cut hands and crushed toes. But all were carefully calculated casualties and part of the national competition of the Centennial '71 First-Aid Championships sponsored by the St. John Ambulance Association and the Workmen's Compensation Board of British Columbia. The event was probably one of the most successful ever held. Thirty-one,
five-man teams, representing all ten provinces, the Yukon , the Northwest Territories and several northern States were on hand to compete in the national and international events.
The Alberta team from Canada Cement Lafarge Ltd. of Exshaw, d e feated 1 1 other industrial first-aid teams to win the St. John Ambulance Association national trophy. Second place went to the British Columbia Telephone Co. Ltd., from Victoria
In the international co mpetitions the Montana team from the Anaconda Company, Great Falls, won t he WOlikmen' s Compensation Board's international tro phy The Oregon team from the State Accldent [nsmance Fund , Salem, placed second in t rois event.
A team from the Kitimat fire De p artm e nt, representing northe rn British Columbia, won the ProvinCIal senior men 's competition; second pla ce
13-year- old cadet Giesela Frauenstein, from Pretor ia, was awarded a Director of Ambulance Cert ficate of Thanks recently (here presented by South Afri ca n Air F o rce Brigadier N euwoudt) for saving an African woman from bleed ng to death after accident street
A church service to open National Promotion Week Septemb er 20-24 was organised by the Christchurch sub-centre of the St. John Am bulance Association in St. Mary's Anglican Church, Merivale, Christchurch on Sunday September 19. During the service a plaque by the sub-centre to mark the fuunding of the Order in New Zealand at a meeting held in a schoolroom of St. Mary's on
April 30 1885 was dedicated by the Archdeacon.
In an inspiring address the Dean of Christchurch traced the history and work undertaken by St. John in Christchurch, which has an excellent record in the training of first-aid and allied subjects, the operation of an ambulance service of ten ambulances, which annually carries some 29,000 patient s over 165,000 miles and the service r e ndered voluntarily, by Chairman of the St John Council for Uganda Mr R S Muwanga (dark suit centre) w th Dr R chard Manche, divisional surgeon, and Bri!i/ade members
(Above) His Grace the Archbishop of Kampala presenting a first - aid certificate to a student nurse at Nsambya hospital
A first - aid post at the rec ent state funeral of Sir Edward Mutesa, first President of he Republic of Uganda. D ivisi onal Surgeon Richard Manche and a nursing member tend a patient About 4000 patients were treated by the Brigade, who mounted a round the · clock operation for three days
members of the Brigade on public duties and as attendants on ambulances. Memb e rs of the Order from many parts of the country, preceded by the Brigade Colours, entered the church in process io n and present was Mr. H. L. Paterson, Chancellor, The Priory in New Zealand (1964-66) who read the first lesson, the second lesson being read by Mr. D H. Lawrence, OStJ, Chairman of Christchurch Sub-Centre.
OF T H E RE C O VERED PATIENT IN THE HOME
A talk by Miss I. H. Morris, MBE, SRN, SCM, HVcert.ON., of the City of Birmingham Public Health Departmen t, gi ve n at the SJA Nledl ca l Conference 1971
ONE OF THE OBJECTIVES of your association, so I read, is 'to spread a knowledge of (among other things) Home Nursing and allied subjects as widely as among the general public and in industry'. Within the context therefore of both your training and experience you are more than likely to me e t up with accident cases and with the relatives of the men , women and children involved in such accidents. I w a nt to snow you that the accident and the hospitalisati co n period (if this is required) are only the beginning of a long road which may wind down mcll1ths and years
I shall describe in detail the stories of Peter and Mr. Smith and illustrate my talk on 'The after -care of the recovered patient in a home situation' on these two very rea l people.
Peter Peter is 10 years old Over 2 years ago he was knocked down by a car which failed to stop. He suffered a fractured skull, injury to his spine, severe bruising and shock. Peter was admitted to hospital and was uNconscious fm four weeks. Fortuna tely, he has not suffered any major brain damage although naturally, his reactions and his learning capacity have been slowed down a little.
Tragically, his spinal cord has been damaged, both his legs are paralysed and he has no control over his bladder or his bowels
Peter remained in hospital for a year aNd shll returns for periodic checks. He c nnot remember how the accident occurred and now , 2 years later, the court case is pending
Before Peter returned home, his family were housed in a modern ground floor flat with a bathroom. He is lucky to have an understanding mother who looks after him we1l and a younger brother who encourages him to be independent; he wears calipers on both legs and gets around the house by means of a 'c0mpanion' walking aid. This aid is of light tubular metal and consists of two walking-stick handles linked together on a square base with castors fitted to the front legs It moves forward when the handles are lifted and is immobile when the user leans (Dn them.
Peter goes to a special school and is taken daily by a coach; his mother takes him to the coach stop in his wheelchair and meets him on his return.
The problem of his incontinenc e h as 4
the life and p erso n of t h e pati e nt and members of the fami ly. How mus ru Mrs Smilltiht harve felt when sJllJe l ea rn he m ' husband wa s al mo s t completdy p ara ly se d ? What d rea d f ul f ear s mu st hav e lurked i n the mi nd of P ete r' s mother as he l ay un co n scio us in ho s pi al. Oft e n th e r e is a feeling of guilt - why did I sen d M ary on t h a t errand across t h at busy ma i n r oad? Why , why?
been solved by a bag during the day and a at night. A special laundry s ervice run by Public He a lth Depa r tm en s u se d. Although h e h as no control o ve r hi s motion s, h e h as trained him sel f to a regular ro utin e. U n f ortuna t e ly h e gets very sore and ha s to have hequent baths
Peter is a lively, happ y boy , t he life and so ul of his family h e firmly beli eves he win walk again and h ]s gr e at aim in lif e is to play football - he lives very near a local football ground.
Mr. Smith
Mr. Smith, 46 years o ld , like Peter was the victim of a serious accident but of a different natur e; he was on h o lid ay with his family (wif e and 3 sons ) in Cornwall in 1969 when he dived into shallow water , struck hi s head and broke his neck.
Mr. Smith's spinal cord was completely severed between the fourth and fifth c ervic a l vertebrae; he was in hospital in a spinal unit for 13 months Then he was allowed home for a n occasional we ekend but this proved difficult as he had to b e turned every two hours, night and day, to prevent pressure sores. I will tell you later how this problem was solved.
Eventually , after his family were re-housed into a through-loung e co u ncil house he was dis c harged home.
Wha effect hav e Mr. Smith' s injuri es had upon him? He is completely paralysed from the neck down and h as no control over bowel s or bladder. He is unable to cough, sneeze or blow hi s nose.
The heat regulating centre in h ]s brain has been damaged so that his room must b e at a constant temperature - 20 to 21 C. At time s his limbs go into severe spasms, his arms are t hrown violently upwards; he is given Valium to control these spasms but it is not al way s effective. There is h a rdly anything Mr. Smith can do f or himself and h e has to b e spoon fe d.
Now using these c ases as il1ustr ations I want to present this subject to you und er three headings:
The effects on the relatives
First remember tha t although th e patient invar ia bly s u ffers from so m e degree of shock, so do the Some li elabves recove r qui ckly, othe Ji s 'go t o as we say, and it is a wh i le b efo r e they can think and act normally_
Fear is always pre se nt - fear as to the extent of the inj uries and the effect on
But as a r ul e th e r e is he lp and healing within the family; ce rt a inl y in the ear ly stages they rally ["Q und and the st r o ng er m e mb ers support the weak.
So the f ir st great e motional uph eava l subsides, r eco v ery begins to take pla ce a nd the p a tient b ecomes s uffi cien t ly well to be sent hom e. B ot h P eter and Mr. Smith were allowed h ome for short p eriods before h ey we re eve ntu a lly di sc harg e d from ho sp it al. This gave time for adjustment and prevented undu e apprehension. R e m em b er , there is nothing more helpful to an injur e d person than a welcome ba ck to a good h o m e and a warm fam il y relationship.
But the effec t s on the relatives d o not en d a t this point , so much more h as t o be faced. In Mr s. Smith's case sh e had to adjust her se f and h e r family to a greatly reduced standard of living and she h a d to recognise th a t th e ph y sical r e lation s hip of her marri e d lif e was over. Bo t h Pet er's mother and Mr s. Smith had soon to learn that their soc i al ac tiviti es were goi ng to be li mited by the d e mand s made upon them ; constant care , co nsta nt atte n tio n , co n st a nt p atie n ce, cons tant t o l e r a n ce.
Both th ese women h ave risen magnific e n t ly to thi s dr ea d f ul cha ll enge but there are many who 'go und er Maybe th e wi fe m ot her or hu s band of the patient will get over tired, p erha ps b eca use th e pati e nt is so d e m an ding , a littl e seed of se lf pity is sow n whi ch grows into a bitt er rese ntment and ca n sometimes lead to su ch a deterioration in t h e situation that th e e nvironm ent is n o longer suitable for th e pati en t, who has to e nd hi s days in an institution.
You ) in t h e St John Ambulance may me e t relatives of m e n women and children involved i n accidents. Wh at su ch families n eed mor e than anything else is unfa iling supp ort, a ready ear a nd a sy m pathetic und er stan ding of th eir difficulties.
The effect on the patient
One cannot ge n e r a li se on thi s - eac h person r eacts differently_ To so m e it is an ex peri e n ce to be lived through a nd th en forgott e n - o r r eme mb ered in ligh t h ea rt e d r e mini sce nce s To other s, like P e ter , it presents a challenge - 'I'm going to walk and th en I'm going to play football'. For ma ny the la ck of to a nd frustr ation.
Mr. Smith is no rmally a very cheerful per son but t here are times when h e [s too depressed t o s'p eak - no one can get any response from him, he s imply st ares
blankly ahead or he may become very rude and aggressive to his family ; but we must not forget that there are those who seem to work their way through the labyrinth of whys and wherefores and discover a meaning in their experience. Everything depends on whether or not the patient is able to adju st. Adjustment requires a measure of acceptance, but probably there is most hope from those who never totally accept and are always striving for the next goal, even if it only means manipulating a paint brush in the mouth or walking one unaided step.
During the patient's stay in hospital , the hospital consultant is in charge of his case , but when he is discharged home, even though he still visits the hospital from time to time he is in the care of his general practitioner. The general practitioner will have full particulars of the patient but I am sure it is in the b es t int e rest of all c oncerned that while he is in hospital the closest relative s should alway s have the opportunity of speaking either to a doctor or the ward sister about the pati e nt, so that they ca n get an idea of th e c hanges which may have taken place in h is physical condition or personality and the progress which can be expected.
Wh a will t h e pati e nt n ee d when he co m es hom e? L e t us consider his basis req uiremen ts :
The majority of p a tient s are unlik ey to be bed - fast but they will undoubtedly spend a good portion of t heir time in bed , th e r e for e, th e fir s t essential is a suitable bed. A single ho spital type bed is best , with a firm mattr ess - divans are too low if much nu rs ing is required The bed should be placed so that there is ro om to move around it. A so rbo m a ttress may b e ne e ded if there is dang e r of pr ess ure sores dev eloping
In addition to suitable b e d clothes, other equipment su ch as pillow s, a bed cradle, b e d r es t or lifting pol e may be ne e d e d. It may be ne cessary to u se draw sheets and wat e rproof sheeting.
This mu st be atte nded to reg ularly In Mr. Smith' s case his wife cleans his teeth and a di s tri c t nursing si s e r a nd state enrolled distric t nurs e visit him each day to wa sh him a nd tr ea t his p ress ur e sores. The patient' s bowels and bladder have to be carefully wa tc hed ; i f the pa ti e n t can get up , he should be within easy r each of a toilet, or a c ommod e may be the answer. If he is bed-fa st h e will n ee d a be d pan and urinal.
Do you Ii ecollect tha t earlier r said Mr. Smith's first visit home was not very successful because he had to be turned two-hourly , night and day? How was this problem solved?
The answer was by the Keane Rota-Rest Ro cking bed. (To describe it very simply, this bed is like a long box lined with padded cushions. They are positioned in such a way that it is impossible for the patient to fall out. The bed is electrically operated and very slowly rocks from side-to-side thus distributing the pressure. Parts of the underside of the bed can be removed so that there is direct access to attend to the patient's bowels and b ladder).
Suitab le clothes must be provided and often these can be adapted at home Mrs. Smith has opened the leg seams of Mr. Smith's pyjamas and inserted zips so that he can more easily be dressed and undressed.
Whatever the patient's condition, he must be encouraged to become as independent as possible ; the r e are many useful gadgets which will help people to wash , dress and feed themselves. Mr. Smith finds a drinking straw a great help when taking fluids.
Nowadays patients are never encouraged to remain in bed but it is not always easy to get a heavy person from the bed to a chair. A lifting hoist is the answer. Many firms supply these Mr. Smith uses one , an 'Easi carri'. Once the nylon stretcher has been placed in position it is possible for a person to easily transfer Mr. Smith from the bed to a waiting chair. This has been put in readiness with a sheepskin covering the seat. He is thus able to sit in his c ha r all day and r e turn s to bed about 10pm Oth ers can walk with help - there are num erou s walking aids for this purpose.
Wheel chair s may be a necessity some ar e self-propelling. Peter's mother is going to ask the co nsultant at the hospital i f Peter can be provided with an electrically-operated chair as she is exp ec ting another baby and finds the ordinary ch a i r too heavy to push I think a t this point I should mention tha t th ere are occasions when it is n ecessa ry for the re lative or nurse to turn and lift the patient. The nurs e must take grea t care that in so doing s he do es not s tra i n h er mu scles or slip a dis c. Special m ethod s hav e bee n devis e d whi ch are comfortable for the pati ent and safe and easy for the nurs e. They are clearly de scri be d in a leaflet publi she d by the Chartered So ci ety of Phy siot herapy 14 Bedford Row , London WCI R 4ED.
Adaptions to the House
Th ese are frequently n ecessa ry before a disabl e d accident case ca n be brought ba c k hom e. Nor mally they are initia te d by the Social Service departm e nt who may bear all, or part of the cost. Such adaptions could b e: hand r a il s on the stairs , in the toilet and the bathroom ; t h e
widening of doorways and fixing of ramps Nowadays some bungalows are being specially built for disabled people with all these and many other facilities
Therapies
Patient s who are discharged home often need physiotherapy to ke e p their muscles in trim and to help them breathe deeply and thus oxygenate their blood. Many can return to physiotherapy sessions in hospital and are conveyed by ambulance. Unfortunately, the National Hea l th Service does not include domiciliary physiotherapy under its umbrella. Mr. Smith's GP feels that he needs it - obviously he cannot go backwards and forwards to hospital so we are going to ask a voluntary agency to pay for a physiotherapist to visit him privately
No person can spend his time aimlessly , it breeds frustration and discontent; if possible, some form of diversional therapy shou d be provided and this is when I am going to tell you where you can get ideas. For I have told you about aids and apparatu s, about improvisations and adapt a tions The most useful range of information is set out in a leaflet compiled by experts and published by The British Rheumatism and Arthritis Association, 1 Devonshire Place, London WIN 2BD. Phone 01395 9905/6.
D iet and Domestic Help
Remember that diet is very important and needs to be nourishing and attractively served , even if the patient has to be spoon fed.
Occasionally some form of domestic help is needed in the hous e, eith e r to assist or re li eve the person in constant attendanc e upon the patient If the family cannot arrange for this privately the services of a Home Help may be obtained through he Soci a l Servi ces D e partment of the Lo ca l Council.
To summarise:
1 Th e re lativ e s and the patient's a cc ommodation must b e suitably prepared for the patient 's home coming.
2. The p at ient may need certain items of equipment and certain gadge ts to help him make the best use of his p owe rs.
3. The pa ti e nt may need skill e d nursing care in addition to t hat given by the relative s.
4. As well as m a int a ining th e pati e nt' s body in good working order, it must be r e m e mb e r e d that th e mind r e quire s some form of exercise.
5. Th e pati e nt's diet mu st be well balan ce d and nourishing. It may be necessary to provide so m e form of dom estic help in the home.
I end by saying that th ere i s h a rdl y a ny aspect of the ca re of the patients I have described to which the members of the St. J olm Ambulance Association a nd Brigade cannot sub sc ribe . 5
THERE IS GROWING CONCERN at the acute shortage of officers for cadet divisions - young people must be t liaine d now to become leaders of the future.
With this in mind , District Staff Officer Miss I. L. Robinson invited all Areas to select cadets aged 15 upwards to attend a lead ership training weekend at Marchants Hill Rural Pursuits Centre, Hindhead, Surrey during May
Thg course opened on Friday evening and when the cadets arrived thgy found tents all ready for them. After generally settling in, hot supper was serve@ and announcements, programme, etc, were made by Miss Robinson On Saturday morning after an early ris€ and breakfast, the course was opened by Miss Robinson who introducgd the staff and said she was sorry th€ boys were outnurn bered - 14 boys, 28 girls - but she felt sure thg boys could hold their own and she hoped all cadets would work well together.
30 divisions, from all Areas of Lemdon, were represented. Reason for the course - leadership. Miss Robinson said she hoped that one day all present would be officers - St. John needs you. She hoped that those who were not already a cadet leafler or NCO, would seem become one. A successful division is always the one with goed leaders. Miss Robinson hoped the cadets would get to know each other over the weekend, share their knowledge, get new ideas and give their friends new ideas. She particularly wanted it to be a happy w eekend for all.
District Staff Officer R. Parks then gave a half-hour talk on programming. He said how essential it is to plan in advance, to have a pFOgramme worked out and stick to it. Meetings should start on time Uniferm should always be worn and should be inspected. Ten to fifteen minutes should be spent on drill. Discipline is essential and this should be evident on meeting nights. The evening should be programmed to include first-aid training, a proficien c ey subj ect and s om e thing re c reational organised games, etc. DjSjO Pa l'ks concluded his talk by suggesting that older cadets should meet with the adults once a month.
Mr. J Corben, County Youth Officer for Surrey, whose talk was entitled 'Leadership', was then introduced. He said he wanted his % hour to be more of a discussion as he wanted to hear the cadets A very interesting and lively discu ssion on just what is leadership, who is a great etc, followed.
6
After a bre ak for coffee, Mr. C. P. Longland, County St aff Officer (Cadets) for Surrey arrived though unfortunately his Land Rover had not ; this was disappointing as he had intended to show a display of photographs and equipment which his cadets use for their 'Adventure' feature. However , CjSjO Longland gave an interesting talk and described the many exciting expeditions, etc, being undel'taken by his ea det s. Although the opportunities in London are not so many perhaps as in the country, CjSjO Longland thought adventure co uld be found and brought into the lif e of a St. John Gadet.
The next item on the programme was 'Discussion Groups'. The cadets had been divided into groups of ten, well mixed so that all Areas were represented in each group. They were a sked to appoint their own group leader.
Miss Robinson said the large numb er of cadets who leave the Brigad e every year at the age of 15 to 16 was extremely disturbing and the groups were asked to discuss:
1. What can be done to stop cadets leaving the Brigade?
2. Why do not more cadets join the adult divisions?
The results of these discussions were to be heard on Sunday afternoon.
After lunch two groups were formed, including the staff, and one of them set off on a six mile hike complete with maps and compasses, to find the ir way across country and to generally survey the neighbourhood. The second group were transported into Haslemere , where they visited the museum and other interesting parts of the town
On their return , both groups were to do a proj ect on their findings.
From 5 o'clock, time was free for swimming and general relaxation until 6.30pm when everybody had to cook the ir own supper in the open. This proved great fun and a strong aroma of sizzling sausages was evident.
After suppel' the social activity" organised by DjSupt C. Bishop consiste d of short sketches and a gener al si ng-song
Unfortunately it was raining h ard when everybody turned in for the night.
Sunday morning quickly brightened after the night 's rain and DjS/O Miss Watts beg an her talk 'The Reason fo r it all'. In th is beauti f ul setting among t h e lovely trees, Miss Watt s gave everyone a lot to think about: the question sh e posed was how important it is for
Combined adult and cadet duties.
Adults should be imvited t o cadet f un ctio ns.
Adults should attend cadet functions.
More combined social activities.
On duty, cadets should be allowed to watch treatment of casualties, not se nt
everybody to pause for a while and co nsider whe ther they are living a full li fe an d m aking the most of wh at life h as to offer. Th e talk was most impres sive, original and sincere.
After coffee, D/S/O Miss Telfer spoke on 'The Administration of a Cadet Division '. She hoped that one day those present would be running their own divisions and gave them much h e lpful a dvice An officer's job, sh e said, does no t consist of just one meeting a week, but a great deal of work is spent 'behind the scenes' on administration. Miss Telfer explained the essential forms which have to be com pl eted and other paper work involved, as well as personal co nt act wi t h cadets - all important for the smoot h running of a cadet divi sion.
Work on survey presentation then followed , the resu lts of whi c h wer e excellent. Some very fine projects wer e produced by all groups. During the morning Deputy Commissio n er Col. Payn e a nd Mrs. Payne arrived, also D/Supt. Mrs Hoadl ey and Mr. Hoadley. They toured the camp site, watched some of the projects being produced a nd chatted to the ca det s.
After lun c h the findings of the dis c ussion groups were given and a great deal of thought h ad b ee n put into these, Briefly, the groups findings on the questions Why cadets leave the Brigade at the age of 15 to 16 and do not join the adult division s', were:
Age difference.
Lack of i nt erest by adult divisions.
Cadets not welcomed by the adults.
Pressure of schoo l exams
Cadets do not know their adults.
Boys and gir l friendships begin to take up time.
Not hing to aim for in the adult divisions.
Adult meetings so dull after cadet meetings.
No opportunity for contin uan ce of
Duk e of Edinburgh's Award sc h eme in a dult divi sio n s.
No proper programme; adults prefer to c hat
Group suggestions were:
Adults s h ou ld be encouraged to take a n interest in cadets.
Need for young officers; - older 'o u t of touch'.
CjOfficer or ex-c iilJ d et to <L ct as liaison between adults and cadets.
Rais e age of entry to ad ult d vi sion to 18.
Mor e competitive work.
to make t ea
These then are some of the co mments and findings (briefly) of the groups. One group leader said they were proud of being members of St. John and this appeared to be the spirit throughout.
Miss Robinson thanked the groups for their work and said she realised a lot of thought had gone into their di sc ussion s.
A lthough she did not agree with everything they said, it would be recorded and every effort would be made to improve the relation s hip between the adults and cadets.
THE LARGEST available dr essings are about 6ins x 8ins ( 15 x 20 cm), which is far s mall er than so m e wounds, especially from road accidents. Pr e liminary trials in hospital s a nd by ambulance crews have shown t h at much larger dre ssi ngs can be mad e chea ply and easily, a nd serve a use fu l purpose.
A s heet of Gamgee tissue 15ins x 30ins (38 x 75 cm) is folded in half and stitched to a piece of waterproof p a per 18in s (45 cm) sq uare (Fig 1) This paper * can be steri li zed by heat. The dres sing is fo ld e d in half, first one way (Fig. 2) and then the other and placed in a paper bag, which is then sealed and sterilized. When the bag is torn open the dressing can be removed without special care because the surface that will be placed upon the wound is covered by the paper. When it h as been removed from the bag the dr essing tends to unfold itself. It is grasped by the projecting edges of paper, which have been folded ba ck bef ore packing (Fig. 2) and can be further
indicated by tags of marking tape. The dressing can be easily opened out and applied to the wound without the hands touching the 'business side' of it. It can be secured by any sort of bandage or by an inflatable splint in suitable cases.
Such a dressing has the following advantages:
I It requires little skill to apply correctly and without handling the inner layer.
2. The waterproof pap er is a useful prot ec tion in wet conditions.
3. It cost lOp.
4. One dressing will encircle an adult's leg from knee to ankle. More than one can be used on exceptionally large wounds.
5. There is enough bulk to absorb a fair amount of discharge , to a llow firm pressure on sources of bleeding, and to provide a useful splinting effect if the dressing is bound firmly in place.
6 The materi a ls are easily obtainable and it is worth asking the local hospital if Fig. 1
they c an supply them ready made and sterilized at a reasonable cost. Patients should be glad to make them as they are so obviously useful and can be regarded as occupational therapy Even if hospitals are not able to supply them , they would probably sterilize dressings made and packed by others.
Many modifications can doubtless be made to this dressing , but if they are to be adopted they should not detra c t from the simplicity and cheapness of the one described.
P.S.London
Azowrap
Fig.2
Douglas Hedges, OStJ, St. J 0hn Council for LinG:olnshire, has sent me the following report:
It has been suggested that I tell the story of our very successful 'Commemorative Envelope' which was issued to celebrate the service of the Order of S1. John held in Lincoln Cathedral on October 10 1970 in the presence of HRH Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon.
It all really started some 18 months earlier, when having exhausted the usual ideas of fund raising for our newly formed St. John Council, our chairman asked for something original and I had the idea of a 'stamp mart', as stamp collecting appeared to be a very popular hobby. 1 immediately set the wheels in motion by writing to all my personal and business contacts aboard and in this country, and circularised all our Priories and Commanderies and the Lincolnshire divisions and also various stamp journals who helped with generous publicity. While waiting for the stamps to arrive , I gave myself a crash course in philately and all the information I could from starn!,) magaziNes and studied catalogues either; bought or borrowed.
The stamps began to arrive - first in their hundreds and then in their thousands, and work began in earnest. This involved hours and hours for many week!>, of soaking, sorting, pricing and finally packeting. Our first sale was very rewarding and showed the immense interest that existed.
When it was annoum:ed that the service of the Order was to be held in Linccln in the presence of Princess Margar@t, the cost of this important occasion was discussed and chairman
expressed the wish that a special effort should be made to rarise the necessary money. I had now learned of the interest of philatelists in First Day Covers, Special Post Marks, etc, and the idea of the Commemorative Cover was born. The design of the postmark which had to meet certain specifications of the Post Office was submitted to the London GPO and approved. To add interest, I felt that the 'Cathedral' series of stamps first issued in May 1969 and later withdrawn , would be specially suitable on this occasion and the Post Office Bureau Edinburgh (who control the issue of , stamps), was approached and ..1greed to a special re-issue of these stamps to us for the one day in Lincoln.
Having completed arrangements with the Post Office, I could now turn my attention to the design of the envelope and in consultation with the Dean and members of the St. John Council, it was agreed to have the Order insignia superimposed over the Cathedral and to have an insert containing a brief history of the Order in Lincolnshire and a short write-up about our Cathedral. This insert was printed on air mail paper for overseas, to ensure the contents and envelope did not weigh more than V2oz. Publicity was effected by a circular
letter to Priories and units abroad who at our request passed the information on to their local Press, who everywhere, -Doth at home and aboard , supported us very well. All County headquarters were notified, as well as the philatelic journals who gave u s good coverage.
The orders started to roll in. Cheques, money orders, postal orders wer e checked, envelopes addressed and stamps affixed , ready to hand to the Post Office on the 'day' Envelopes were also on sale at the Cathedral, where the Post Office had a special posting box near the west door. Thanks to the wonderful publi city obtained, over 40,000 envelopes were despa tched to 34 countries.
The great day arrived , and the service in Lincoln Cathedral will long be remembered by those who were present, and also by those who received the commemorative envelopes. For week s a nd months after the service, correspondence and orders for the envelope continued to arrive and on presenting the balance sheet at the last Council meeting , the treasurer was able to report that not only all expenses in connection with the service had been covered by the sale of the envelopes, but we also had a handsome profit in hand. Indeed , the profit from the stamp mart to
BY THE EDITOR
d a te ha s exceeded four figures
Apart from t he financial success we feel in Lincolnshi re that this has help e d to pu t us on the m ap all over the world and ce rtainly given much publicity to St. John Ambulance everywhere. We are now receiving l etters, stamps and good wishes from m a ny Priori es and Command er ies, and one of our nursing cadet divisions is in correspon d e nc e with a cadet division in Malaysia. The liai son of cadet divisions in this country and abroad could well be encourage d and I personally feel wou ld be to their mutual advan1.age and int erest.
Parcel s of English stamps have been sent to severa l units who have requested th em overseas. Our 'Stamp Mart co ntinues and we would welcome gifts of sta mp s sent to the Cardinal's H at 268 High Street Lincoln '
The following anno unc ement was made at the Nottingham get-together this year: Before leaving Nottingham this year, we, the delegates of the 1971 Nottingha m , wish to thank you a nd yo ur staff for this exce ll en t conventio n.
For ten years the news of Nottingham has spread lik e wild-fire among divisions a ll over the country a nd if we were able to total up the number of members who have atte nded a Nottingham i t must surely run into many thousands.
All these members h ave reason to tha n k you, Colonel Goring, for h elpi ng them to become i ndividual s and more helpful members of St. J ohn. Your own frien d ly a nd happy mann e r helps dissipate everyones fears and anxieties,
Flqwers for Miss J. Trimm,
Se r vi ng Sister a nd secretary of Southampton Nursing Division for 25 years, from Carol Carr, daughter of the division's superintendent. Miss Trimm joined the Brigade in 1939 which are then rapidly replaced by the warm, h appy atmosphere that is truely Nottingham. Where else do all ranks and ages mix as one?
We now learn t hat after many years of devot e d serv ice you are to retire from the Brigade. We, that is , the 1971 Nottingham, could not let this go unmarke d. As much as we wanted to present you with a gift of our appreciation we felt that this would not be what you tr uel y wanted to reme mbe r us by.
So on b e half of the 475 delegate s of this year's Nottingham assembled in this h all we sho uld like you to accept this
cheq ue for £33 to be u sed as you think fit for the service of mankind.
Finally, Colonel Go ring from eve ry member of St. ] ohn in this H all I offer you a warm, sincere, heartfelt thank you for ten wonde r ful Nottingham's, countless K.G.VI cou rs es, and all that you have done for the members of St. John , parti cu larly we lowly ones at divisional l evel. We hope that through your faith you will still go on serving mankind a nd obeying the mottoes of Our Order.
Edit: The money collected and presented on this moving occasion to Colonel Goring, is now to be used for buying toys
SJA Bracknell's new headquarters, costing £12,500, nears completion for the children of the St. John Ophthalmic Hospital in Jerusalem.
And so the spirit spreads.
Having just returned from a visit to the dentist myself, the following story from 12-year-old Jennifer Parker of Grays Nursing Cadet Division , Essex, made me feel better. Shared experiences often do:
It was 2.20pm when I arrived in the dentist's waiting room. My appointment for a check -up was at 2.30. Even so I dreaded it. The atmosphere of the waiting room filled with terrible thoughts.
The snow was falling fast outside aNd I took a chair near a heater. One woman with a little girl was sitting opposite me. The girl was crying and the lady was trying to comfort h er. nurse carne in and the girl went off still sobbing. I did not blame her.
The part I hate at a check-up is when the dentist had finished the examination
and I wait to be told whether or not I need anything done. How I hoped it would be nothing!
Then I had visions of the dentist tying a piece of string round a bad tooth, tying the other end to the doo r and closing it, pulling my tooth out as it went.
What if I really did have to h ave a tooth out? Should I have gas or cocaine?
Gas smells so awful, and if I have coca ine what about that big Needle with which he gives an injection? I hoped I would not need a filling That drill hurts.
By now some more people had come into the waiting room. One fat cheerful lady gave me a smile. It made me feel a little better. A man h a nded a sweet to his son, who had just come back from seei ng the dentist. I always say when I go to the dentist: I'll never have another sweet as long as I live, or from now on I'll clean my teeth five times a day. I never do, though.
It was nearly time for me to go in
now. I tried to think that it would Soon be over, but it did not dC'> any good. The the door opened and the nurse came in calling my name. I got up and followed h e r. She was very nice and I tried to forget what was happ e ning, where I was going.
The dentist's room had a funny smell about it and looked very frightening with all its queer machinery I went in and sat on the chair. The dentist spoke kindly and told me to relax. He then examined me for a few minutes. I was in suspense. And then a little while later he said: 'Don't look so worried - I haven't to do anything. Your teeth are fine. You don't have to come back for another six months."
I was so relieved! It was all over! I did not have to worry about this for another six months But then it would begin all ov e r again.
...
Why should 30,OOO-plus gaily and outrageously dressed ' hipp ies' descend upon three r emot e f ield s two miles outside a small Lincolnshire town? To those who were no t up to date with local affairs, the sight of all tho se young (and a few older) folks, many with beads dangling round their necks, heavy packs on their backs, and busily thumbing lif ts, must have been a pu zz ling sight. H a d the 'flower power' revolution begun?
Lincolnshire St. J ohn m em b e r s knew the answer, however. A folk festival, the first ever in the country, was soon to be held.
July 24 197 1 was the date when top folk singers, both traditional and contemporary, were to attend. Performers would includ e such nam es as Torn P axton, Dion Buffy Sainte Marie, with top groups The Byrd s and Pentangl e. It was with some un cer tainty of what might happen t hat Lincoln sh ire St. John and Red Cross members met for the joint duty at Tupholme Memories of recent, more well known pop festivals, with all their troubles, were fresh in members' minds.
One first -aid tent was shared by the two 0 rganisation s. The Red Cross provided a mobile first-aid unit , and St. John brought three ambulances from Lincoln , Market Rasen, and Grantham Divisions.
The first-aid centres were kept busy with a large variety of cases, which included asthma, hay fever, headaches, numerous cuts (mainly to the feet, due to iack of smoes), and exhaushon througlu inadequate food and lack of sleep, for many of the folk fans had hitch-hiked over long distances. Inevitably the drug pwblem cropped up, and it was quite evident that quite a few of the fans mad been sampling them and smoking 'pot'. Most of the drugs being taken appeared to be 'soft' , including amphetamines , LSD, <lind barbiturates. Qu i te a numbeF of
overdoses and 'bad trips' (on LSD) were dealt with at the centres, where doctors were in attendance
One fan of about eighteen was in a coma through drug excesses and required immediate hospital attention. In all, five cases (not all drugs) required hospital treatment, two being detained. One problem was collecting casualties by ambulance due to the rough conditions of the fields and the tightly-packed fans , who were too intent on the c oncert either to hear the ambulance or notice ambulance men!
Because fo the constant supply of casualties, unfortunately first-aiders heard little of the performances However , what we heard was peaceful and pleasant. This summed up the fans in general the 'beautiful people ' were peaceful, friendly and most appreciative not only of the artistes, but also of the treatment given to t hem by the first-a i d t ea ms. It was planned that the first-aid centres should close at 11.00pm because of the distances members had to travel hom e. However, it was past midnight before they closed and , although the festival was planned to finish at 11.00pm it carried on into the early hours , the fans clapping and singing around camp fires.
All agreed that the festival h a d been a trem e ndous success, and most enjoyable duty to attend.
On his way back from holiday in the West Country in July 1970 , A/M David Shelton of Brighton Ambulance/Nursing Division visited a first-aid post in Southsea , Hampshire, manned by A/M Clarence Locke and his wife Nursing Officer Betty Locke. During the conversation over tea (rea l reason for visit?), Clarence mentioned that he had been in Fulham Division before the War and David replied that his sergeant at Brighton had also been there. At the mention of the sergeant 's name , Reg Locke, Clarence turned white and said that Reg must be his brother - his long-los t
Nurse Annie Whitw orth, 46 years in th e Brigade, has also just completed 52 years service with Dunlop Textiles of Ro chda le La ncs, who recently presented her with a silver rose bow
brother , who, after a few years of having lo s t touch, was reported missing believed killed during the War.
On returning to Brighton, David immediately phoned Reg and gave him the news. Clarence and Betty Locke arrived at brother Reg's house soon afterwards. The brothers had met again after 37 years.
Since then , the Locke brothers have been meeting at Brigade and private functions and Reg says his brother would shortly be moving to Brighton and transfering to the town's Division. The brothers were together at the annual inspection of the Brighton (Dorothy Stringer) Division Ambulance/Nursing Cadet s on July 2; Reg's wife Mary is the divisional superintendent.
LI FE IN THE COUNTRY
Braintree: an ordinary town in Essex with Adult and Cadet Divisions made u; of ordinary men and women , boys and ?irls. 1':1ore fortunate than some perhaps m havmg among its equipment a mobile first-aid post an d two ambulances, a Ford Transit and a Land Rover. The Transit has travelled 10,600 miles since its dedication eleven months ago.
The eight days commencing Sunday September 5 1971 were a bit above a v erage admittedly, but give some
indication of what goes on 'down in the country Here they are:
Sunday 5: Motor cycle grass track meeting, attended by nine members with Land Rover ambulance and mobile unit to reinforce neighbouring division. Transit ambulance takes severely disabled patient horne, and returns her to hospital in the evening. (This is done every Sunday). Between these journeys ambulance and three members on duty at auto-cross event.
Monday 6: Transit conveys patient from Leamington Spa to Braintree. Land Rover brings patient from Ipswich to Braintree. Patient bathed in her own home
Tuesday 7: Transit and crew at all day duty at Ford Motor Co. car evaluation tests. Member attends Old Peoples Welfare committee meeting.
Wednesday 8: Transit takes patient to Brighton. Two members escort Handicapped Club em half-day outing. Two members on duty all day at Horne Safety Exhibition
Thursday 9: Transit to Galashiels Scotland, to pick up patient. member does weekly library round at hospital. Pati ent bathed in her own home. Friday 10: Transit returns from Scotland with patient.
Saturday 11: Transit takes handicapped patient in spinal chair to London Zoo for first-ever visit. Land Rover a nd three members on duty at Donkey Derby. One member on duty at hospital.
Sunday 12: Another grass track meeting our own duty this time, involving both ambulances, mobile unit a nd sixteen members. In addition the regular Sunday movement of our friend.
During this period
Who said nothing ever happens in the country?
by C. A. Shildrick (Mrs.) superintendent
THE DAY was hot and sunny, and only shghtly cloudy when I set off to meet the cadets and instructors for the la st part of the divisional mapreading course. This was to be a walk over some six or seven miles incorporating map references, compass bearings, and observation. The instructors were accompanying the cadets purely as a safety measure. At this stage, I was trying to remember why I , the divisional superintendent, should be participating in this at all.
On arrival I was greeted by a strange sight; on the pavement I saw two humps a nd four feet. (Fig. I).
I park @d the car before realising that the two humps ' bdonged to two of the 1nstructors who were checki ng last minute compass bearings and references, much to the amusement of passers-by. At this point a car stoppe d and the driver asked th e way through the town. An instructor jumped to his feet, brandishing a map and a romer, and instructed him to tum left at the top of the road! A puzzled driver continued on hi s way.
In a convoy of cars we drove appwximately ten miles to the first map reference The sky beg a n to cloud over as the first cadets set off in a South-easterly direction, followed five minut es l a t er by an instrm:tor ar med , incidentally, with an umbrella , map romer, compass, etc. I ought to have realised that trouble lay ahead when the second group marched -rapidly to the north-west.
It was spotting wit h rain as we waited
in our warm-weather attire for the cadets to realise theiJ: mistake. They were supposed to go past a church, and we anticipated that they co uld walk anyth in g up to a mile before realising something was wrong.
T he first group reached a signpost which was apparently pointing in the wrong dir ectio n, but after anot h er 100 yards they realised they were headi ng in the wrong direction. They called their instructor and asked i f they sh ou ld try and re-set the signpost. 'Let the others get lost as well', he replied. He did not r ealise that we were standing in the pouring rain, with no umbrell a, waiting for the return of the second group.
The next part of th e walk as they joined the river towpa th climbed an em bankm en t and stumb led through woods to a village was uneventful. Apart f rom retrieving one cadet from the ground, the next three miles were correctly neg otiated, including taking the name of a church at a certain map reference en route.
Meanwhile, a n hour after they had started the second party arrived back at the start and we all set off to fo llo w the others. They sat und er the incorrect sig npo st - not even noticing it! They stil l went the wrong way. A farmer asked us if we were lost , 'No' we said, 'but they are,' pointing in the direction of the half-drow ned ca dets. After carefully observing map they realis e d that a half-a-mile down river they had to turn
left on to a n other footpath , and climb an eIil1lvankment. Two hundred yards later they found a footpath tuming to tlite [eft and walked happi ly a long it. We sat on a sti le and made ourse lv es comfortable. How l o ng would we have to wait this time? They eventually ret urn ed won derin g why we had not followed. We pointed them in the right direction and gave them a few start As we followed, the instructOli was exp l aining to me how they had p l a n !l1ed the route. He mumbled something abo u t the towpaths being full of potho les, but I never heard the end of the story as there was a thump and a sp l ash. I turned to find the instructor spread-eagled on the path , one foot in the river. (Fig. 2).
'What was that you were saying?' 1 asked, l aughing. He replied: '*?!__ *I' clutching his knee.
The first group passed through a toll gate, and while the cadets paced out the bridge, much to the supri s e of on lookers , the instructor explained to the toll-gate keeper that this was q uit e a usual way for them to spend Saturday afternoon s
They then set off down another towpath for 2 Y2 miles until they reached a l ock. They passed through a small group of canoeists who were ca mping on the bank and playing f ootba ll in the rain. The two groups sympathised with each other and then our cadets set off to climb the steep hill to the nex t village. Pausing at the third field gate , the cadets discovered that it was securely padlocked with barbed wire on its top. The party dispaired , but the instructor patiently pointed out the small stile at the side of the gate. Happily, they climbed over.
At the next village the instructor called the cadets to a halt while he wrung out his socks. Feeling better for that, they then proceeded a mile or so along the main road to another village. Here they were supposed to join the river towpath again, but knowing that it ,would be muddy the cadets u sed their i niti ative and kept to the road - much to the instructors delight! Another two miles brought th em successfu lly to the finishing point.
The second group had by now reached t he village where they paced o u t the bridge. We stopped to give them a few mimutes start, but on rejoining the towpath l ater we were unable to find the ca dets. The instructor used his binoc ulars , but in vain. As the weather was so bad we wondered i f they had stopped off for a coffee. We searched the village a nd then proceeded at 'high speed' d ow n the towpath. The grass was knee-deep we were wet through, and getting more an d more worried. At the rate they weFe we should have caught them up. Meanw hile aU but two of tihe cadets in the first group had be en se nt horne by the instructOlf They had been waiting for u s in the rain for half-an-hour.
We passed the lo ck and walked
t h rough the canoeists' camp negotiated the three field gates alld dim bed the steep h i ll
At the t op of the hill we paused while the instructor emptied his shoes; I wrung out my jacket. We then went on to the next village and deciding that our group could not possibly have had the initiative to keep to the road we descended to the muddy, slippery towpath. We could not see far ahead so assumed that we must be rapidly catching up the cadets After a further two miles we limped to the finishing point, and to our horror the cadets were not there. The first instructor then informed us that in view of the weather they had taken a short cut and he had sent them home
Mileage covered by first group 6/7 mil es.
Mileage covered by second group 9 miles (pl u s).
We were taken back to collect our cars, fe e ling soggy and sorry for ourselves.
Map reading - is it an art or an endurance test?
NATIONAL FIRST-AID COMPETITIONS
RESUL TS MEN
Place Team l IC r Ltd. (Mond Division)
2 Dock & Harbour Auth. Assn (Port of London Authy)
3. Nat. Coa l Board Phurnacite Works, Aberdare
4 Bakelite Xylonite P .V .C Div. Darlington
5. Bribsh Steel Corp. (Clyde Iron Works) (Max. 400) GRAND TOTAL 288 284% 282 263
6. U.K. Atomic Energy Authy. (Atomic Weapon s Research Estab li shment, Aldermaston) 260
WOMEN
1. Depa r t. of National Savings Durham 284Y2
2. English Clays Lovering Pochin & Co. Ltd. (English China Clays, St. Austell) 26 1%
3. British Gypsum, Sherburn 206Y2
Awards for the highest individual scores attained were mad e to the following : Best Man (56% m arks): Mr. D. J. WilLi a m s (No. 2 of Nat. Coal Bo ard Phurna ci t e Wks.); Best Woman (50 mark s) : Mrs. R. Clark (No.4 of Dept. of National Savings , Durham.)
Feb. 17
from Mrs. E. M. Kitchen, divisional superintendent I hesitate to disagree with S/O R. E. Cooper's views 0n cadlet ages (August Review, page 12) but feel so strongly on this point that I must dQ so.
The Essentials of First Aid states in its fmward that a 'First-Aider is usually defined as one who has been awarded a certificate by an authorised body that he , or she, is qualified to render First. Aid'. In my opinion, the average 9 to 10 year old is too immature, both mentally and physically, to carry out any but the simpler first-aid treatments. To expect a cadet of this agt. La carry out the responsibility of dealing with serious accidents, or of saving life in an emergency, is surely to place too heavy a burden upon him or her.
From the age of 11 upwards, most children begin to develop a maturity which enables them to tackle quite serious accidents efficiently. Training for and entering competitions undoubtedly helps by giving the younger cadet confidence in his ability to cope adequately. I agree with Mr. Cooper that it seems more difficult for ambulance cadets to obtain their Grand Prior badges than is the case with nursing cadets, but not that the syllabuses should be shortened or simplified. Their value surely lies in the fact that the subjects are taken at some depth and not merely skimmed over. Admittedly, some are not up to date, but our lecturers and examiners correct this.
Lecturers for such subjects as Care of Animals , Fire-Fighting, Road and Home Safety, with Cycling, Preliminary Hygiene, and Clean Food Handling, find six lectures of one hour each adequate, followed by a revision evening before the examination.
The Essentials of First Aid, Pre-Home Nursing and Pre-Child Gourses take longer but can be usefully combined with another proficiency subject: e.g. Casualty Make-up with First-Aid, Pre-Hygiene with Pre-Home Nursing. We find the making of scrap books, and project books, an enormous help.
Normally a cadet is only allowed to gain one proficien c y c€rtificate from school. The majority of our cadets find no difficulty in obtaining four certificates in a year, and have gained a reasonable number of Grand Prior's Badges - 27 in the last 8 years. Our divisional strength averages 30.
I have done a fair amount of lecturing on the Essentials of First Aid manual, to various age groups, and find it direct, easily understood, and clearly illustrated. We have had 100% pass rate in examinations based on instruction from it.
Framlingham, Suffolk Eileen Kitchen
TAUNTON SPLINT
from A. R. Cooke, divisional officer I read with great interest in the August Review the article 'Immediate Treatment' by Dr. J. N. Wilson. More often than not, wh€n we come across an accident we have with us nothing in the nam€ of first-aid equipment other than a pair of hands, one or two tissue handkerchiefs, and other odd things a man carries on his person; also, whatever can be begged or borrowed from bystanders, if there are any.
We are taught to improvise, and also to give only what treatment is necessary to sustain life and prevent worsening of injuries, pending the arrival of medical aid (doctor, nurse or trained ambulance personnel).
OF. Wilson mentions Taunton splints in his article. I am conversant with many types of splints but not Taunton. Would someone explain what it is, please?
Incidentally, I do carry a first-aid box of the approved type in my car. Ilkeston, Derbys. A. R. Cooke
Medical Department writes:
The Taunton splint is a @levelopment of the Thomas (Knee) splint whereby the ring at the hip bone is split and attached to the splint struts, after application it is closed by screw bolts; it is recommended as being usable by two first-aiders as opposed to the 4-man team for the Thomas splint, as quoted in the Manual, and it is suggested that its application is simpler and more comfortable.
14
Readers' views and opinions, which should be se'nt to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St John and its Foundations. Although readers may sign published letters with a pen-name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
the set is th e r e to be used. In most cases this proves to be right and ends up by the poor casiUaHy with a broken spine b e ing transported on foot for a mile a nd a half in icy conditions la shed to a rather rickety ladder. I ask you! I would love to see. a team le a der refu se to move hi s casualty, and say call for a hellcopter to assist. I wonder what hi s mark sheet would look like
Again , I would not like to say with my hand on my heart that th e sprained ankle the cas ualty complained of wa s not in fact a fracture. But then, the experts get 2 marks for the first l a yer of cotton wool , 2 marks for the first bandage,- 2 marks for the second cotton wool, and 2 marks for the second bandage , while the good team got nothing because they treated for a fracture and played safe.
It seems with all thes e complaints it is a wonder anybody ever competes.
No, it is not as bad as that in every case, but I think St. John Ambulance should have a good hard think about competition marking.
The c ulprit would see m to b e the marking sheet in its present form , WI t h 2 mark s for 'I noted this' and 1 mark for I noted that et c.'
How ca n a marking sheet be devised that will suit everyone? I
However , this development has been superseded by yet another version , the Dunn-Hallett splint' which, it is b elie ved , is likely to be in produ c tion shortly. ]n respec of this latter splint information is now being sought.
from J. R. Davis
I agree with W Gwilt (September Revi e w) tha t co mpetiti on technique should be changed, not only for the sake of competitors and judges but also be cau se in many cases it l ea d s to bad practices
Let m e explain what mean. Id eally the cas ualty 's well-being should be first and foremost, in any test set, and the team giving the best performance with that in mind should be adjudged the winner.
All too often the poor casualty is mor e or les s totally neglected both by the first-aiders and even more unfortunately by the judges themselves.
What a mine of information the trained casualty could be if only asked for his or her opinion of the treatment given!
What other bad practices are there?
Sympathy and re-assurance are seldom seen to be done and are not given the i mportance I am sure they deserve
For instance, in the commonly used marking sheets 2 marks would be awarded for applying a dressing and perhaps another 2 mar-ks for care in handling. Most teams would get the maximum mark s, but if properly checked to see that the dr essi ng would have been efficient , no marks should be allowed.
The same applies to most forms of treatment.
Point grabbing is another bad practice which does not get the 'slap-down' it deserves. I recall an in sta nce during a test when a casualty should have been secured to a stretcher prior to loading in an ambulance. The team captain knowing that he was up against the clock weighed up in his mind whether securing the patient or i oad i lilg the ambulance would merit the higher marks. He chose to load the ambulance, [o st the m.arks awarded for security, but gained more marks for lo a ding.
In my opinion he should have had neither.
Badly designed tests can le a d to bad pract ice There is a n old saying among competitors which states that anything found on
A com bined exercise by London Di stri ct's S.E. Area Orpington and Bromley Divi sio n s, u si ng both divi sional ·was s taged recently for the K enti sh Time s in c onjunction with Area PRO John Bedells' r ecr uiting drive
An aircraft was presumed to have taken off from Biggin HIll (wlthm the area) and stru ck high tension wires, to catch fue a nd crash on to waste ground behind hOll ses. The pilot a nd pa ssen ger s were thrown clear, but on e of th e m la n ded in a precariou s po sition which requ ir ed u se of th e Neil Robert so n str e tcher. As th e ambulance could not get b eyo nd th e ro ad, liai so n betw een th e sce ne and vehicles was maintaiNe d by OrpingtoJil radio network.
The photogr a ph s a bove (by the Kentish Times) sh 0w Broml ey Combined Divi sion m emb ers loading a pati e nt into their a mbulance (top right) the sce ne , as an Orpington m e mb er treats a patient and the se rg ea nt radio s for mor e assistance; (ri gh t) m e mber s of both divisions get a patient with a suspecte d fractme of tibia on to the st retcher.
put forward the following suggestions.
The yardstick of any competition should be the way in which a casualty can best be treated, bearing in mind all known which will result in that casualty arriving at medical care 10 as good a condition as possible.
This would mean a breakdown of the whole into 5 parts: 1 Approach ; 2 Examination; 3 Diagnosis; 4 Treatment; 5 Disposal. These flve par ts are all e qually important as to merit equal marks. So you get a lot mor e mark s for dispo sal; doe s i t really matter?
Let u s exa mine each of the parts in more detail and see what they could involve
The judge could list these detail s on his mark sheet as a reminder and just tick them off when he sees them done.
lA pproach: Appre c iation of the set as presented , safety precautIOns observed, sy mpathy and understanding given to casualties, delegation of team members to particular tasks. Intellig e nt use of by-standers. Notification of emergency services, general assessement of priorities
2 Examination : Should be carried out as though a doctor was not present. The judge only commenting on aspects that cannot be 'faked'. This will get rid of the parrot fashion conversations between first-aider and judge , and transfer it to
first-aider and casualty, or by-stander, where it serves the most benefi t.
Salient points sho\l.lld be:
Sympathy and understanding , tending to gain the casualties confidence.
Patience in persevering with dazed casualty in order to find t h e facts.
Care i n handling , removal of clothing, etc.
Examination of a reas showing prior ty first.
Ensurance of clear airway.
Coma position if deemed necessary etc.
3 Diagnosis: 1nf0 rm other first-aiders of d.iagn©sis and! a ny special treatment required. Give diagnosis to judge at the end of co mpetition.
4 Treatment: Th e treatment given sho uld be seen to be effective. Various forms of treatment co uld obtain the same effective result. This should be scrutinised carefully by the judge and if he is in doubt as the effectiveness of the treatment given he should consult the first-aider about the reason that particular treatment was given, and judge accordingly. 1m this manner both judge and first-aider benefit from a short discussion.
S Disposal: Here again several ideas on disposal may be effective and the judge should mark accordingly. Salient points would be: Appreciation of casualties comfort; arrangement to notify relatives, etc; care of property; dispersal of priori t ie s, etc.
There are no doubt many salient po i nts which I have omitted but you can see the general picture.
The advantage of block marking is that the j udg e is not continuously searching up and down a mark sheet looking for the odd mark, but has opportunity to observe all that takes place in a detached manner. It also means that when a team has a f1ash of genius and produces a form of action not foreseen by the judge who set the test but meriting some commendation, this can be ref1ected in the marks.
I have carried W. Gwilt's letter a little further, with food for thought. I hope someone else will continue the good work.
Successful competitions dej:lend entirely on the effort that is put .into them and the skill of all those taking part. The higher the skill of thDse concerned, the higher is the standard off first aid achiev@d.
Unlike Dr. A. Ward Gardner of 'New Advanced First Aid' fame, who more or less sits on the fence in his attitude to corn petitions I am convinced that properly simulated competitions bring out the best that first aid can offer.
In conclusion , in reply to B. J. Bockells observabons, I would agree that allowance for deductions of marks are present on mos t marking sheets but I am afraid seldom used.
the best cadet of the year to Cadet Corporal Brian Jenner, of Gloucester City Corps, at the recent annual inspect io n (Photo: Gloucestershire Newspapers)
With respect to the efficiency of the judge where more than one casualty exists, this slwould not DCCUli because p aa:a 12.1 of the Gen.eral rules srpecihcally sta t es Dne pel· casualty.
p. O. A mbulance Centre, Shrewsbury J. R. Davis
THE MANUAL from D E Smith , ambulance member
There h as already been corresponde nc e on the subject of the Manual but I would like to add my co mm e n ts.
1. I feel the m a nual co uld do with a complete overhau] to bring it more in line with prese nt day events, and to widen ]ts scope.
By this I mean e.g. some detail in Roadside First Aid, for I am sure it is not sufficien t to know how to bandage a fractured limb , stop bleeding, etc. How many members can say they are fully con versant with the technique of de a ling with a sit uation i nvolving a major ca r cras h with victims pinned and injured inside the wreckage?
2. Is it nec essary to in clud e c hildbirth in the Higher Syllabus? It could be included in the routine l ectures, and this part of the sy llabus replaced by something lik e ly to b e of mor e immedia te use.
3. I would like to see the use and admi ni. st ration of oxygen introduced at a much earlier stage of the first-aid co u rse, for I am sure that an ambulance member is more likely to b e ca ll ed on to give oxygen in an emergency in the a mbul ance on the way to hos pi tal than assis ting a t a birth.
4. Could not first-aid exams be made more interesting (and more difficult if ne cessary!) by including questions on road side first-aid? Such subj ects for the exam would , I feel, h elp a lot to imcrease the efficiency of the first-aider.
Lastly , c;o uld not the sect ion on Civil De f ence be revi se d or maybe omitted a nd substit ut e d with somet hi ng else? I f ee l tha in its present form it has no immediate bearing on the duties and knowledge of the first aider.
Such civil defence techniques could be dis c u ssed on tra i ning nights and be part of the training programme.
Derby
QARANC
from Maureen Sawyer, Pte, QARANC
D. E. Smith
In News from the Divi sions September R eview m ention is made of the Derbyshire SJ A officers and cadets visiting the QARA N AS depot. This spelling is an insult to our corps. We are the Que e n Alexandra Royal Army Nursing Corps. The QARANC. Colchester Maureen Sawyer Edit: Quite right. Sorry.
by Frank Frewin
SCENE: an open space near the headquarters of the local division of the St. John Ambulance Brigade. Time: 3pm on a warm Saturday. An audience of twenty people Fifteen have been pressed to come by relations and friends in the Division and have grudgingly turned up to make a show; five because they happened to be passing the HQ and their husbands are on night work and there is nothing especially interesting on the box.
Divisional Superintendent Smith (fictitious, of course) steps forward and formally welcomes the audien ce (among whom are his wife and daughter , anxious to get away to do the shopping) to this demonstration of the kiss of life. There is slight applause (which the rest of the audience do not appreciate is intended to be facetious) from his daughter. At this point two small boys join the audience.
Then follows some introductory r e marks from the superintendent about the number of avoidable deaths every year from asphyxia and 'that is why everybody should know how to do the kiss of life'. Interest of all the audience is aroused except for the small boys who thought the demonstration had something to do with sex. They depart with some disgust at the deceptive title.
The superintendent then proceeds to demonstrate the technique. Support t h e nape of the neck. Press the top of the head ba ckwar ds. Pres s the angle of the jaw forward Open your mouth wide. Take a deep breath, etc.' A perfect repetition of pages 64 and 65.
Manifestations of restlessn ess are apparent amongst one of two of the audience so the superintendent look s up quickly and says 'Would anybody like to have a go?'
Reactions to this unexpected development are of three kinds: four peopl e have obviously lost int erest and would like to edge away unobtru sive ly ; five a re too self-conscious to perform i n front of an a udience, they giggle and shake their heads; but half are willing and anxious to try it.
Two volunt ee rs actually make the chest wall fise! The rest fail to do so.
either because they did not achieve an adequate oral seal and allowed air to escape round the sides of the mouth, or because they forgot to pinch the nose, or because the neck was inadequately extended. Nobody noticed, and with some light badinage the eleven return to their seats obviously under the impression that this is the end of the show (the other nine have discreetly disappeared during the performance).
The superintendent does not want to bore the faithful that remain but before the demonstration finishes thinks he just ought to mention' cardiac compression. 'To get the heart started again you must press, thus, on the lower third of the breastbone, about 70 times a minute'. he t ells them. He does not elaborate on this theme and nobody wants him to.
All those that 'had a go' have had a most enjoyable half-hour and walk away under the impression that they could revive a man with the kiss of life if the occasion arose
But could they? There must be thousands of people in the country deluding themselves that they could perform the technique efficiently in an emergency. We can discount those who didn't 'have a go' as unlikely to remember anything useful. Those that d i d will presumably in a real case repeat at least one of the faults they committed at the demonstration and so get li t tle or no air into the lung s. O f what value then is the knowledge of th ese people to the community?
In lecturing to first-aid classes for beginners I always ask whether any class memb e r has don e resuscitation before. Usually one or two have been to a public demonstration , so I ask them to show me · what they remember. The results are pathetic.
When a fault is tactfully pointed out the u sual reply is: ' But I only saw it done once (and, perhaps , 'had a quick go myself) and that was over two years ago'.
Ind ee d what other r es ult can you expect?
All writers on the subject advocate
teaching cardiac compression in conjunction with the kiss of life, since cardiac arrest usual1y occurs at the same time as, or swiftly follows on, cessation of respiration. Yet if this vital subject is introduced at all it receives only a cursory mention. Never are the dangers brought out - the location of the abdominal viscera that may be ruptured by inaccurately applied pressure , the amount of pressure for various age groups, and how it can be assessed, or the recommended rhythm in conjunction with oral resuscitation.
Why did Supt. Smith, then, give such an inadequate treatment of the subject? He is an able speaker and has a good kn.owledge of resuscitation. The answer is that he knows his audience is in the main· drawn from casual passers whose attention will be retained for only a short time.
This is a technique that must be studied in depth if it is to be successfully applied in an emergency. An hour-and-a-half's lecture, with revision, if possible every year , is the minimum that should be accepted. In our publicity we should make it abundantly plain that to master the technique requires a full evening with an annual revision and that a considerable number of facts have to be mastered if the t ec hnique is to be applied effectively. The demonstration should be ordered accordingly. A casual 'dropping in to that hall be ca use I was passing' is not enough, and indeed is surely positively dangerous since it gives a person an entirely erroneous impression of the value of his knowledge in an emergency. To give a man the idea that he could res us citate a drownee by just watching oral re suscitation for a few seconds is tragic.
L e t us all remember the young doctor who a few months ago was confronted with the necessity to do a tracheotomy. He would not perform the operation _ and who cannot sympathise with him?be ca u se he h a d only seen it done and had never done it hims e lf.
by Dr. C. C. Molloy, Assistant Chief Medical Offiver SJAA
DO YOU WANT to make a film illustrating your local first ::IJid activities or some aspect of first-aid training that interests you? If so you may need some advice. Did you know that a Visual Aids Committee of St. John AmbulanGe is i.n existence to help you with just that sort of advice? It is a pity to waste time and enthusiasm in producing a film and then find that through inexperience or lack of knowledge or failure of preliminary planning the film has only a local significance. The few home-made films on first aid appraised by the Visual Aids Committee show this lack of universal application.
The need for a Visual Aids Committee was expressed by the then Director-General of the Association over ten years ago, as he felt that visual aids were of great importance in teaching first aid and other subjects. The committee which was appointed decided that visual aids should be defined in its widest terms to include films, filmstrips, flannel graphs and diagrams, and is now extended to include any material including the use of sound or visual techniques which would help to clarify or exemplify the teaching of first aid or kindred su bj ects.
The Visual Aids Committee has been meeting regularly several times a year since and the current committee under the chairmanship of the Assi3tant Director of Ec;lucati0n of the Association, Mr. F. G. Thomas, MA, comprises St. John Headquarters medical and training staff, educationists and visual aid experts ,from hospitals, the British Medical Association, the Central Office of Information, state industries and the armed forces.
At a recent meeting of the Visual Aids Committee it was considered that the existence of the committee was not known widely enough and that it should be publicised through the St. John Review.
The Visual Aids Committee advises on audio-visual equipments of all kinds including film, slide, strip and overhead projectors and will assist an individual in the purchase of any type of equipment. It holds a watching brief on all advances in the field and reviews new films, filmstrips, film loops, slides and tapes.
The possiblity of using flip charts in the teaching of the theoretical aspects of first aid has be en investigated. The lecture notes and illustrations are prepared on newsprint sheets clipped t0gether like a wallpaper pattem book and each sheet is thrown
TAKE FOUR (1969) (Colour 22 minsl
Distributed by: Award Scheme Films
Pre>dueed by: Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme
over the back of the blackboard or stand as it is used This method of teaching was considered simple and effective but the cost of reproduction of the two hundred odd sheets required for the full first-aid course was considered prohibitive.
The committee is at present investigating the possiblity of using a tape/slide presentation for the teaching of the theoretical aspects of first aid.
All films and tape/slide programmes which have the slightest bearing on St. John work are regularly reviewed by the committee and the appraisal reports are published in the St. John Review, the Ambulance Bulletin , the B.M.A. Information Bull e tin and other pUblic a tions issued by special industries All information of value is also circulated to the County secretaries Catalogues of films and filmstrips have been compiled and published and a revised catalogue of will be publish ed shortly. A broadsheet has b:een issued on The Use of Film Material to Support First-Aid Training which is a comprehensive review of visual aids. One co py has been issued to all County secretaries and further copies are available on d ema nd,
A film library of about twenty 16mm films is held at Headquarters and the films may be hired out to St. John members.
The committee co-operates with the British Med ica l As so ciation in the production of slides and teac hing material and a new series of slides will be available shortly upon the 'C irculation of the Blood'
A visual aids and information room is kept at Headquart e rs with a standing exhibition of up-to-date te ac hing techniques including a Bristol Tutor and exhibitions are organised at the Grand Prior's competition, Brigade Final s and national events such as the Royal CcJlege of Nursing Congress and the Royal Show at Kenilworth.
If you have any visual aids or teaching mat e rial of your own for teaching first aid in your division or centre which you think are worthy of more widespread recognition, or if you have any suggestions for visual aids - why not send or take them to the Secretary of the Visual Aids Committee, St. John Headquart ers , I Grosvenor Crescent, London, SW 1, who is always available to anyone who wishes to visit or contact Headquarters on this subj ect?
The St. John Ambulance Film Appraisal Panel which meets fortnightly at Headquarters, consists of doctors, first aiders and visual aid experts who offer their services for this important aspect of visual aids. It is intended to publish monthly reviews of those 16mm, films recommended by the panel.
The panel considered this film no great addition to accident safety film programmes, It is unimaginative, monotonous and fails to present an adequate message, Of interest to P.L.A. employees only.
(Black & White 15 minsl
Distributed by: Port of London Film Division, Trinity Square, London, EC3.
(Colour 45 mins)
Distributed by: Sound Services Ltd, Henfield Rd, London, SW19. Produced by: Ministry of Defence (Admiralty)
Aimed at arousing interest in the Award Scheme, the shows young people participating in Award activities.
This is a well presented illustration of some aspects of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme. Sound and picture both are of good quality - there is no commentary and the film is created for spoken introduction and post viewing discussion.
Recommended for all juvenile and young audiences.
WAITING TO HAPPEN (Black & White 12 minsl
Distributed by: Port of London A utholrity, Trinity Square, London, EC3.
Produced by: Port of London Authority ' A tour of dockland showing equipment left lying in hazardous situations.
BEYOND THE SEA (Colour 25 minsl
Distributed by: Royal Alfred Seamen's Society, Weston Acres, Woodmansterne Lane, Banstead, Surrey
Producer: William Hamer
This film explains the nature of the Society and indicates facets of its work.
The panel c0nsidered this weB produced ffilm amply fulfils the purpose for which it was made; i.e. to demonstrate the Society s work to interested parties. The photography is excellent but the film is a shade overlong for its content.
Audience: all interested in the Royal Alfred Seamen's Society.
Produced by: Harrow Technical College
This film tours do ckland and shows possible pitfalls to accident safety.
The pane] considered this film was well photogr a phed but there its approval ends, The film is ineffective in its safety message and fails to allocate to individuals each hi s share of accident safety; accidents and danger s need much more pointing than is given in this production,
Not recommended ; may h a ve interest to P.L.A. employees.
HEALTHY FAMILIES (1969) (Colour 11 minsl
Distributed by : National Audio Visual Aids Library, Paxton Pbce, London,SE27
Produced by: National Audio Visual Library, Paxton Place, London,SE27
A zoo doctor sho ws how to keep his zoo families healthy. He makes sure the animals are clean a nd have good food , exercise, rest and the vaccination s they n ee d. The film teache s the importance of good health pra c tices, as well as the doctor' s role.
Intended for primary schools.
This is a s pl en did little film tha t teaches health co ncept s to juvenil es by means of shots of animals in a zoo being exa mined by a 'zoo do c tor'. Will have great appeal to the intended audience but the message is somewhat mute,
Audience: all St. Johnjuniors ,
BETTER ODDS FOR A LONGER LIFE (Colour 19 minsl
Distributed by : British Medical Association, Tavistock Sq. London WCI.
Produced by: American Heart Foundation
History of ca rdiovas c ular m e dicine and current research , Ways to reduce heart attack risk are discussed - such as exercise , d ie ting , etc.
The pan el was unanimou s that thi s is a brilliant filmimaginatively produced, sp lendidly animated, a per f ect example of what a medical film sho uld be ; lucid , co ncise and intriguing. It would also be an ideal film to scree n after Circulation of the Blood lectur es , \
Audience : stro ngly recomm ended for all types of audiences.
MORE IS MISSED BY NOT LOOKING (Colour 20 minsl
Distributed by: Rank Film Library, PO Box 70, Gt. West Rd. Brentford, Middx.
Produced by: Vygnet Films
The n ee d for accurate, simplified, early di ag n ost ic procedures that can give fast results in the hosp ita l ward. Th e motorcycle crash vi ct im shows this need especially with blood and urin e tests and the sponso's services are see n in hospit als in Europe, This is an excellent f ilm that e mploy s colour suitably and conveys factual information about th e testing of urine How eve r , the technical information contained and medical jargon employed places the film b eyon d the first-aid sco pe.
Audienc e: medical profes sions a nd technical labor atory staff.
TIN KER TAl LOR (1969) (Colour 29 mins)
Distributed by: R.C.N. Romford Branch, Romford, Essex.
Produced by: G rou p Nine Productions
This Wm shows occupational health nurses in contrasting situations, deal s with varied health hazards and s tresses the rol e of preven tive medicine.
Th e panel paid this film the compliment of judging it on professional standards, It is a n excellent film , accurate and up-to-d a te a nd shows the dutie s of occupational h ea lth nurses in Some detail - in fact, it fulfils a need. On the debi side , the commentary is d e liver ed at a i'un erea'l pace, some shots a re over exposed and the sc ript meanders into aGcident-prevention, occupational and welfare work - it is, too , a trifle lengthy.
The Group are to be congratulated on a splendid effort.
Audience: This film will be of great interest to all St. John members specifically to nurses and d ese rves industrial exhibition.
This film teache s the exhaled-air method of artificial respiration and the closed chest cardiac massage technique It show s the emergencies when these techniques will be needed ; asphyxia due to drowning , to coal ga s poisoning, to electric shock and to suffocation.
The panel consi dered this film exce ll ent in eve r y way. Although eight years old it is sti ll up-to-date, relevant and a splendid production, This film is an admirable example of film craft - it achieves its objective of teaching resuscitation faultlessly.
This film is obligatory viewing to all St, John member s and should be screened to each and every first-aid class without exception
DIE (1968) (Colour 20 mins)
Distributed by: Ministry of Defence (Navy) & HQ St. John Ambulance
Produced by: Ministry of Defence
This film presents the necessity of first-aid knowledge and shows four dangerous conditions that any lay person may be expected to encounter.
The panel consider thi s prize-winning film to be of the u tm ost i mportanc e to all within the first-aid field. It is both a magnificent piece of film craft and the authoritative film upon f irst aid. It is de for all personnel under in st ru ction to view this film.
Audience: universal ; should be screened on all courses where possible.
THE USES OF BLOOD (1967) (Colour 10 mins)
Distributed by: Central Film Library, Bromyard Rd Acton, London W3.
Produced by: Central Office of Information
This film d escribes functions of the blood and its components and shows the u se of exchange transfusion and operation of t h e heart/lung ma c hine,
The panel considered this a good film that covers its subject well. It is accurate, clear and addre sse d to a non-technical audience in plain terms; it fulfils its purpose of informing prospective blood donor s. Audience: un ive r sa l.
ENGINEERING HAND SAFETY (1971) (Colour7mins)
Distributed by: G.P.O.
Produced by: G.P.O.
This film portrays various accidents that have happ ened to th e hands of G,P,O. personnel and emphasises the need for safety proc e dur es to be followed and appropriate protective clothing and equipment to be used.
The pan e l considered this an excellent safety film. The story is logical , all incidents well portrayed and it is both lucid an d concise. It packs quite a wallop.
Audience: of great int e res t to all industrial audiences.
COME NURSING (1970) (Colour 12 mins)
Distributed by: R C.N. Romford Branch, Romford, Essex
Produced by Group Nine Productions
This film shows three girls who give up their occupation to becom e nurs es and gives detail of their training,
The panel considered thi s an excellent ca ree r f ilm that within self-imposed limit s fulfil s a dmirably its purpose of attracting recruits to t he nur sing profession. It is we ll produced, pleasantly acted and h as the virtue of brevity. Although it tends to glamorize the profes sion and over emphasize social activity those, too, are faults of similar professional recruiting films some of which have budgets ten times the size of that mad e available for this production.
Group Nine are to be co ngratul ate d on this glossy film.
Audience: Of value to schoolgirls a nd others contemplating a nursmg career.
In our new headquarters in Edinburgh a magnificent set of shelves, taking up most of the wall of a fine room, have been built to house our library. It is true that, because these shelves have been made large enough to permit some expansion of the collection, the library itself looks much smaller and more significant than it did when crammed into glass-fronted book-case in Glasgow. But iR fact we have a very good, specialised library in which there is a surprisingly high proportion of raIe sixteenth, seventeenth aRm eighteenth century books, thanks to the efforts of Professor J. D. Mackie, the first librarian and the generosity of early benefactors.
Such a library - it is only surpassed in Britain by that at Clerkenwell and by the Scicluna collection in Oxfcmi - is a great asset but as librarian I face a difficult probiem. Obviously such a collection should be expanded, and in an ideal situation, with unlimited funds at my disposal, I would try to buy everything that was published on the history and achievements of thg Order of St John and I would snap up all old books on the same subjects that we did not already have. I would follow this path quite uncritically, purchasing everything that came on to the market and would not be because some of these works would be frankly shoddy and the majority, naturally, would bg in languages other than English. On€ cannot be selective when trying to build up as complete a eollection of books on the Order as possible. I would also pay particular attention to other fields of study: local Scottish history, in which there are often references to Hospitaller estates in works on particular counties or towns; and subjects closely allied to our main interest, such as the crusades, the colonies established by the crusaders in the East, orders C'lf chivalry, other military orders such as these of the Templars and Teutonic Knights, medicine and hospital services. I would also buy all books written by members of the Order and I might try to build up a microfilm collection of manuscripts relating to our history.
Now there is no denying that such a programme would be immensely expensive - and here I ann t himking of a cost running not into hundreds but thousands of pounds and that it could never be put into its entirety. I should state at once that I have nothing but praise and gratitude for the attitude ef au membelfs and of Priory who have been very generous; two years ago I 20
appealed for £ 100 to IJurchase a very important set of volumes and more than double that amount was contributed. But it is no good a librarian in my position imagining that he can persuade the Order to direct towards him large sums that should De spent on charitable work, or that in normal circumstances he can persuade it to finance the buying of books in foreign languages that the majority of our members cannot and will never read. So here is the dilemma. Our library is good enough to be the nucleus for unlimted expansion and yet it would be wrong to @xpect our Order to finance such a programme.
There are two ways round this problem. First one must constantly appeal to m@mbers as individuals to make grants of money, and above all to leave any books on the Order in their possession to us in their wms - for many of them have quite considerable private collections. Secondly, it is obvious that if one cannot find enough finance within an institution one must look outside It is, of equally obvious that it would be practically impossible to find money for a private library at the disposal of a limited membership. But the answer to this may well he in a direction in which we have already begun to move. If the library could be made to serve the community at large in the same way as do all our other assets, then not only would we quiet the consciences of those who see it as a
luxury in conflict with our charitable work , but we would also provide ourselves with some foundabon for appealing for outside help. This is just what we have done by joining the 'exchange' scheme run by the Scottish Central Library. In this scheme our books have b ee n separately cata logued with the Central Library who will ask us for the loan of a particular work if there is a reader in another affiliated library wishing to read it. Postal expenses are borne by the borrowing library and there are safeguards that make it virtually impossible for a volume to be lost. With our books available to the public at no expense to ourselves and in the safest way that can be devised , our library can no longer be thought of as a private luxury but has become an ex tension of our charitable work. We might now hope to attract f unds for it from sources that normally extend help to scholarly enterprises.
West Coast Generosity Glasgow businessmen have been extraordinarily magnanimous, considering that fact that we have moved our Priory headquarters away from their ci ty We have received £750 from the Trades House Commonweal FUJ1d and £250 from the Merchant House , to be spent on furnishing our new hbuilding in &iinburgh J .R-S.
WHEN THE IDEA of a County cade t weekend ca m p was first raised a comm i ttee under the cha irman sh p of County Staff Offic e r R. W. P. Smith met wih ent hu s ias m to develop it; several county and corps staff officers, together with a warrant officer from an Army Youth Team, bega n to conside r the problems involved. These soon grew and for a time many seemed inso luble an d the fate of the camp lay in the balance for some months.
Originally, it was hoped to use the Scout's camping ground at Overstone, n ear Northampton, but as large numbers were desir e d it was felt that this site would not be adequate Eventually, with the co-operation of the county chief education officer and the headmaster , we were granted the use of the playing fields of the John Lea Secondary School, We llingborough , tog et h e r with the kitchen, din i ng hall and toilet fac iliti es within the sc hool it self. The arrangements mad e many aspects of the weekend camp much easier since a great deal of neces sa ry e quipm ent would be immediately available without further hiring or transport.
Plans went ahead with many committee meetings and a final bri efing of all offficers who wou ld attend th e camp . Tentage was borrowed from severa l so u rces and erected during the previous week with help from l ocal Army units. The camp of just over one hundred boy and girl cadets with some twenty offjcers assembled on the Friday , July 16. Films were shown to occupy those who arrived earlier and ligh r efreshments were provided.
No camp would be successfu without go od feeding arangements a nd these were in the hands of County Staff Officer Miss Day and Corps Staff Officer Mi ss Manning, with L /Cp l O'Donovan of the Territorial Army Catering Corps as cook, and many other willing h e lp ers. The fare provided was well served and eaten in the sc ho o l dining haU.
Wh en eve ryon e was present the cadets were divided into their sections for the weeken d ; the [p lan was to mix the ca d e ts so that they would get to know those from other parts of the County; each 'sectiJom' consisted of about en cade ts dr a wn from various divisions.
Grenadier guardsman brought 'hardware'. (Photo: Northampton Chronicle & Echo)
That fir st 'evening' extended for many cadets well into the n ext morning; certainly in the boys' tent lines there was activity until a time not far off Reveille and the male officers, whose tent was in the area, h a d , in medi cal terms , a very d isturbed night!
Saturday morning was devoted to training. After an assem bly parad e, cadets in their sections were asked to discuss topi cs concerned with their St. John Am bulance memb ership Each section chose it s own chairman , secretary and spokesman , the section adult officer being there only for advice. Later, sections came together and the 's poke smen' gave bri efly the conclusions of their sec tions on eac h topic. Some of the point s made on Work for the Grand Prior 's Badge ', 'Mixed Divisions', 'Cadets on Public Duties showed d eep tho ught a nd produced ideas and co mment s which m er it more d etai led consideration
Next , followed first-aid training on the 'circus' pattern using ten aspects of first aid , eac h d e lt with by an officer. A section of cadets went to each stand and after a p erio d of about eight minut es each section moved round one place to another 'stand'. Using this m et hod it is pos sibl e to provide a lot of varied activity in a short ti me.
The afternoon of Saturday was devoted to a mixture of sporting activities 'S pa ce Hopp e r footb all and tr ack eve nt s. This concluded with a football m atc h be twee n a team of ca d ets and one of both male and female officers.
Th e rul es for thi s game, if they existe d at all, were very e lastic to say the l east The officers' goalposts were adjusted as need
arose against mor e ski lful and nippy cadets; th e numbers play i ng were anything but constant and the referee was hardly impartial, frequently joining in the play and eventually bringing on a substitute some minutes before the end.
A very popular discotheque was organized for the evening and this attracted most cadets in camp. Evidence of the day' s efforts was shown by the speedy way in which the campers settled down for sleep ; the bustle of Friday night was absent and the site was soon quiet. Sunday began with an assembly parade and church service conducted by the Rev. R E. Cox of Kingsthorp e, Northampton; the Acting Commissioner, Mr. H. R. Townshend , and other County staff officers were present. Later in the morning a number of representative display vehicles from the Police , Fir e Service Ambulance Servi ce, Army and Ro ya l Air Force visited the camp, giving the ca d e ts opportunities for handling the equipment and asking questions.
A varied programme of 'Fu n Sports' was arranged for Sunday afternoon based on the 'It's a Knock-out' TV-programme. These events, which were compctHlve on a section ba s is , provided mu c h entertainment and fun both on land and in the water of the school swimming pool. The winning section was rewarded by receiving individual trophies.
The camp ended with a formal parade at seven o'clock on Sunday evening which was addressed by the Acting Commissioner and soon af terward s ca d ets were disp ersing, all agreeing tha tit h a d been an excellent week-end.
R W P Smith, co unty staff officer.
2 1
Framlingham, Suffolk
ca dets Jacqueline Nunn, 16 (left) wins the cup for being the year "S rmost efficient member, and a Wedgewood vase for 16 - year- old Rachel Pitt, who left the division recently to take a pre - nursing course Photo: John Rowe , Oxford)
Peterborough cadets presented County Staff Officer Roy Dav.enport with a tankard and cuff-links when he left the area recently for Leicester (Ph oto: The E ven ing Telegraph) ...
CHESHIRE-Hou sewife and grandmother MFS. Grace Warburton of Poynton, gave h e r 50bh pint of bl00cd to the Blood Ttransfusion sessie n held at the new Poynton Clinic Centre r ece ntly
(See photo below) To mark the occasion she was presented with the Ministry of Health Premier Long Se rvice Award, the si lv er gilt brooch by the Chairm an of Poynton Pari sh Counci , Lt. Col. G. D. Hopley, MBE She also received a cake from the m embers of the lo cal St. John Ambulance Brigade of which she is a former member. Members of the Pay on Nursil1g Division have manned this Bl00d Transfusion Centre throughou t the 30 years of its exis t ence.
DERBYS-400 member s from 23 South-Area divisions out in poor weather for th e ann ual inspe c tion tak e n by Capt. P. 1. B Drury-Lowe, SJA Co mm ander and Comm issioner, during Sept ember. The O.c. the inspection wa Dr. J. R. Freeman.
Among the many service medals and bars presen ted by Capt. Drury-Lowe was a 5 th bar for 40 years service to Area Staff Offic er R. Nall also to Area Staff Offic e r A. C. S tam forth. A jubilee certificate to mark the 50th birthday of Long Eaton Ambulan ce Divi sion
See C H ES HI R E A'" silver gilt brooch for Mrs. Grace Warburton, a grandmother, after giving her 50th pint of blood (Photo: Stockport Advertiser)
A good attenda nce at a recent Wy ke Regis, Dorset, enrolment ceremony; the Mayor and Mayor of Weymouth were there (Photo: K. H. Mooring Aldridge)
was pr ese nted to the division's superintendent, r. R. Boswell.
DEVON-In order to keep up-to-d a te in their first aid and re scue method s, 30 member s of Exmou th SJ A divi sion s visit ed Exeter airport recently. They we re met ther e by Mr. G. Gooding, a staff member , who co ndu c ted them around th e airport. Instructions in qu ick entry in to variou s typ es of crashed aircra ft were given by MI. Davie s; what to expect and how to d ea with it in the area of plane s e ngine s by -Mr. Clemens; and how to make safe the ejector seat projectile and relea se the pi lot, by Mr. Gooding.
Mem bers a so saw th e contents of the pilot's survival kit, and were shown how things such as a p a ra c hu t e co uld be u se d fo r shock tr ea tm en t th e pilot's he lm e lining as a h ead bandage _ knowledg e which co uld be of immense va lue at an air crash.
The last s umm e r open-air exercise arranged for SJA Exmouth was a r ealisti ca ll y-staged road acc id e nt. Organi sed by Div. Offic e r G. Coates, th e ambulance crew were confronted with a wrecked car under which were two cycl s ts each with seve re abdominal injuri es, from which (thanks to a lo cal bu tcher) int est ine s app eare d to be prot ru ding.
In the car were three girls and a man who was driving. Their combined injuries were: chest s tove-in by the s teering wheel, fractured rib s, kneecap and elbow, and badly cut h ea d s and fac es, mo st of which, it was e mpha s ise d could have been prevented if hey had be e n wearing their safe ty belt s As mo s t of the injured were suppo sed to be n great pain, 'Entonox', th e lat es t appliance and a pain killer, whi c h ha s been carri ed by th e ambu ance in the County for only a sho rt t im e, was tri e d out.
Area Co mmi s ion er Dr. Terry Glanvill e of Honiton was th e presiding officer at the recent ceremony of promoting sen io r ca det s to th e adult divi sion s which took place at Exmouth SJA hall.
The cadet fo r promotion were para ded by Cadet Sargeant Stephen Ide. Dr. Granvi ll e stressed the importance of the ce remony , the oath they had a ken and wished them th e be s of lu c k in their new division.
Following the promotions, severa l officers and members of th e amb ul ance divi sion r eceived their effic ie n cy awards fo r the year from the Area Commissioner.
HAMPSHI RE-On a rath er dull day in August round-the-world yachtsman Chay B ly t h returned to river Hamble It was anticipated t hat in the excitement of thi s lon e-sai lor s return there might be a number of water casualtie s, so at the r eq uest of the police St. John m e mbers turn ed ou t in force.
A first-aid ten t was erected on the War sash side of the river, and ambulance and mobile unit s were station ed on the Hambl e side. The lo cal ferry - a converted rowing boat - wa s u sed to tran sport personnel and equip m ent across the river so saving valuab l e time. Mobile radio equ ip ment was fo und to be invaluable in maintining contact across the river.
Fortunately th e re were f ew casualties, but the operation proved an excellent exercise Member s from all areas of Hampshire took part and agreed th ey had e njoy e d the experience.
NO RTHA NTS- When the m e mber s of Kings thorpe Nursing Division pre sen ted their new superintendent, Mi ss Jill Langton, wit h a scro ll of welcome at her first
reaching the age of 70, Mr. Everitt decided to call it a day, while Mr. Gotch opted for the lessC?) s tr e nuous duties of A ssociation Cent r e Secretary; he a so remain s co unty PRO and edit s the co unt y annual handbook. At a recent special soc ial gathering of the divi sion Mr. Gotch pre se nted Mr. Everitt with a set of St. John cuff link s and tie slide from offi ce r s and m e mbers of the division. Mr. Everitt's SJA se rvice was interrupted when he left the town for a few years but he also received from Mr. Gotch a fourth bar to his service medal. Two other veterans of the divi sion Bill Downes and Cecil John son who also retired r eceived similar presentations.
SUFFOLK- A cof fee morning a nd bring - and - buy was held at Dunelm, Framlingham (the home of
Northamp ton Nursing Corps superintendent.
We wish both of them happin ess and su ccess in their new wo r k.
NORTHANTS-L es Everitt and L e w Gotch, as boys of 16 in 1917 , were partners for the pra ct ical part of their first-aid examination and both served in Wellingborough Headquarters Am bulance Divi si on for many years Mr. Gotch becoming Divisional Supt. This yea r , on
REVI EW CROSSWORD No. 11 (71) Compiled by W. A. Potter
ACROSS:
1. Raid ed coin-box for gas stimu ating respiratory Ge ntre (6.7).9. fncision and drainage of abscess. (7). 10. Where to try one's luck amongst corn husk at the fete. (4.3). 13. First action in case-taking! (4). 14 Metal used to prepare onese l f for a shock. (5). 15. Man of great va l our is nothing to her. (4) .1 8. Pioneer in under stan ding of mental disorders. (5). 19. Did away with blood grouping system more than fifty threw off. (9). 2 l. Millet one may mix for soothing app li cation. (9). 23. Skin irritation after first element in a knot. (5). 25. Part of eye wnspicuous in Hibernians. (4). 26. Development defect of palate is almost en tir e l y to one side. (5). 28 Ours readily becomes acid. (4). 31. Juic@ containing pepsin and hydrochlor ic acid. (7). 33. Honest body in anatomica l position. (7). 34 Produces expiration in mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. (6 2.5)
DOWN:
2. Bodies found in urine of untreated diabetic. (7) 3. Infection of hair follicle making one very angry? (4) . 4. A dar k -horse terrifying sleepers? (9). 5. In spire to colo ur strongly. (5) 6 Unknown boy making diagnostic procedure 0-3) 7. Strang e bird in the femur. (3). 8. Nothing but good -will for one not ne e ding medical attention? (2.3 -7 ). 11 Cut during the first two years. (5). 12. Man of high spirits requiring drink is eager for carnage. (2). 16 Classes from which childr en, presumably, are excluded. (5). 17 Sense conveyed by second cranial nerve. (5) 20. Cannot powder face when short of breath. (3.2.4). 22. Leav es out doctor r eturning before its end. (5). 24. Rough centre of narrow open vessels. (7). 27. Anaesthetic affecting only a sma ll part. of the loo dy. (5). 29. Three badly damaged in riot. (4). 30 Cunnmg part of foot and aOEta. (4). 32. Contains much J Across when expired. (3).
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 10 (71)
ACROSS:
1. Laceration; 8. Atrium; 9. F.a.red; 10. Neck; 11. Ethics; 12. Spinal cord; 14 No dule; 17. B.ooz.e; 18. Nec.tar; 20 Sugars; 22. Omits; 43. Re.mark; 26. Ex h austing; 28. St.r.a.in; 30. Jav a; 31. R elic; 32. Fibula; 33. Withdrawal.
DOWN:
1. Ufe-span ; 2. Cervix; 3. Radial; 4. Tonic ; 5. Nake01ness; 6 Arch; 7. Muscular; 13. Otolith; 15. Dogs; 16. Etna; 17. [Broken Jaw ; 19. Elect.ri.c; 21. Surgical; 24. Usurer; 25 Pillow; 27. A.wash; 29. A.nus.
24
(Continued from page 1)
All this publicity will bene fil your recruiting too - using 're c ru iting' in its broadest se nse.
The television appea[ then s the starter and we sho uld make the mos t of The film wi ll feature the Lord Prior him se lf ; it is often more usual nowad ays to invi te professionals to make appeals, but the BBC advise d stro n gly in our case n ot to use a professional. Our Lord Prior has some exper i e n ce of being televised, and we agree there is no need to look elsewhere.
The first requirement before the appea l is to spread the news as widely as possible that i is to take place. We want a great whispering campaign. Every member shou ld te ll all his friends and ask them to tell all their frieIlds. Every poss ib le effort must be made to get the new s spread and to urge everybody to l ook in.
We shall look after the nat ional P ress. A Press preview o f the Appeal is arranged for De cember 9. Bu t you shou ld look after the provincial Pr ess, not by paid advertismen ts , bu t get hold of them - there is plenty of good will there - and beg them to make a chatty com ment or two about the Appeal in a su ita b le co umn, both before and after C hristmas Day And get them to publicise the work of S1. John generally durin g Chr istma s week. In sh ort build up a good programme of St. John publicity a r ound Chr istmas.
One milli o n copies h ave been printed of a small sticker for envelopes. Di st ribu te these to all your members for use on envelopes on pre-Christmas mail. Plenty more are available if you can use them. We shall pay, n ot you.
Small handbills will be sent to you . Arrange to display them wherever possible - in public places , sh op windows, cars, etc. Again, we pay for them.
Ask for announcements of the Appeal to be made over public address systems at race meetings, football matches, etc attended by St. John.
The Lord Pr ior will announce that c ontributions can be handed over the co un te r at a ny bank.
These are ju st the first ideas. We hope you will have others and will let us know of them.
We sha ll employ professiona l fund rai sers to adv is e on this campaign It is recongnised that some people dislike the u se of them and even co nsider it unethical. But a working party set up by the National Council of Social Service to report on charity fund r a ising , adverti s ing , etc co ncluded that there cou l d be no objection to the u se of professiona ls providing results fully justify the fees When seek in g very l a rge sums for a great national charity as we are , there s every prospect that the fees will amount to a ve ry small percentage of the f und s raised.
In deed I rather doubt whether we should no t be fai ling in o ur duty if we did !zot employ professionals in ou r circumstances today For they are the peopl e with the experience and expertise. Do not imagine profe ss ionals a bsolve you from responsibilitythat your fund ra ise rs can sta nd down. The r everse is the case. Fund raisers on l y advise on how to raise fu nds. It is up to us to act on the ir advice.
Throughout this ta lk I have s pok en ([) ff St. John as a who le, n ot as the OrCi!ler on one side, S t. Joh m Ambulance on t he o t h e r and the Hospit a l. I think we ought o get away from this habi 1i of thinking of St. John as three or more parts. We are not th ree parts. We are one. And that is the public image we mu st put over, and the way we must think of ourselves i f we are to progress.
T. G. Scott & Son Ltd., 1, Clement's Inn, London, WC2A 2ED (01 -242-6264 and 01-405-4743)
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THE JOURNAL OF ST. JOHN
The following news of the national St. John appeal comes from th e appeal office of the Order:
(Head Office)
:
N.o.A. (Belfast) Ltd. lOa College Street BT 1 6BT Tel. 0232 28377
195 -199 Corporation Street Tel. 021-236 4686 108 Horsefair BS I 3JX Tel. 0272 28650
48 Wellington Street LS 1 2DE Tel. 0532 39602 Camden Street Tel. 051-207 1565
36 King Street M2 6BA Tel. 061 -834 4322
105 Pilgrim Street NEI 6QF Tel. 0632 26722
!O3 Tavistock Road , Drake Circus. Tel. Plymouth (0752) 63755
35-36 Oxford Street S09 3SD Tel. 0703 25916
109 Shaw Heath Tel. 061-480 2859 & 2132
New Commissioner-in-Chief p.2
First Aid and the Law by David Dubut p.3
The Holy Land by Joyce Ham ilton p.4
Around and About by the Editor p.8
Special Duty Unit by Brian Rockell p.12
And even Boot played his part by A. R. Davenport p.14
Readers' Views p.16
New Books p.18
Films p.19 from Wales, N. Irel and p.20
Scotland, Overseas p 2l
News from the Divisions p.22
EDITOR: FRANK DRISCOLL, 26 Pembroke Gardens, London, W 8. (0 1 ·60385 1 2)
ADVERTISEMENTS T G. Scott & Son Ltd
Price 12p
COVER: 1 Clement's Inn London , WC2A 2ED (01-242 6264 and 01-405 4743)
£1.70 per annum, including postage , from Treasurer, Order of St. John 1 Grosvenor Crescent, London S W.l
Yorkshire Dringhouses Division's Jean Dennison gives some roadside attention on a sponsored walk organised by the York Round Tablers to provide three heart machines for the city's ambulances (Photo: Bill Hadley, York)
CHRISTMAS MORNING AT 11.40 is the great switch-on time for the story of St. John on BBC j TV ]. Weeks of publicity before this date will have prepared viewers for the programme.
In early December , 3 million handbills and 50 thousand l2ins by 8ins posters will be despatched by the Order direct to Counties, Centres , Areas and Divisions throughout the U.K. Every division will receive 500 handbills and five posters for local distribution , and superintendents are especially asked to ensure that the posters are seen in the most teJling places: town halls, libraries, theatres , and the like. The effect of these handbills and posters will depend ' on them being seen by as many people as possible , so make sure that everyone of them works really hard for the appeal.
Journalists will have seen the TV appea l at a press preview. Press inform ation sheets will have gone to all national and provincial news editors on December 9, when copies will also be sent to Counties to help them in their personal contacts with local press and radio, which is where publicity tells most.
Two new brochures will be launched when the a ppeal is seen by the press; one on 'The St John Ambulance', the other on 'The Ophthalmic Hospjtal'. These brochures wjlJ be ready for genera l distribution by mid-December , and will be at your finger-tips whenever you talk a bout St. John.
The Lord Prior's television appeal will herald a new awareness of our important work, and make the facts of your voluntary service in the Counties and Divisions better understood in 1972.
OUR NEW Deputy Commissioner-inChief Mr. Watkin Williams was previously Commander St. John in Buckinghamshire and is therefore, so to speak, 'succeeding his successor', Admiral Wellby having just taken over his former appointment. We are most fortunate to have found such a WQTthy successor to Admiral Wellby , for when one learns that Mr Williams
a St. John first aid certificate in 1926 and after some years as a class secretary and lay demonstrator joined the Royal Windsor Ambulance Division in 1939 one realises that he is no newcomer to St. John.
In 1943, when he was a master at Eton, he was instrumental in forming the Eton and District Ambulance Division (later the Eton and District Combined Division) of which he became the first divisional superintendent. Among the many young Etonians to whom he taught first aid and who joined the division was HRH Prince William of Gloucester, now Commandant-in-Chief of Ambulance Corps and Divisions.
Our new Deputy Commissioner-inChief held a succession of increasingly important St. John appointments in Buckinghamshire and was a leading light in the 'County Ad ven ture Week-end' , particularly in the 'Competitive Adventure Journey', the final event of this course which was run for young people between the ages of 15 to 21. The idea of quadrilateral divisions was another of his valuable contributions to
the Brigade, as were h lS lectures at the Leadership Courses in 1968 and 1969.
In addition to his St. John activities Mr. Williams has many other interests, especially with the Scouts and a variety of Youth Organisations. He has held a number of Scout appointments including various staff posts at four World Scout Jamborees both in England and abroad (Hungary, Holland and France). His book 'First Aid and Ambulance Work' was for some the Scout Association's official first aid handbook.
As a member of the Bishops' Council in England of the Diocese of Zululand and Swaziland he visited Zululand last year and, in spite of a very full programme, managed to put in several hours of public duties there. There is not space her to mention all his other activities, but it is quite clear tha t his vast experience and enterprising ideas will make him a very valuable asset to HeadqUarters, and we offer him a very hearty welcome and wish him every success in his new appointment.
ST. JOHN Ambulance Headquarters has lost a popular and much loved figure in the retirement of Admiral Wellby during October after nearly nine years as Deputy Commisisoner-in-Chief.
It is not only at Headquarters that he will be missed, for during his term of office he has become well known throughout the country and has earned the affection and esteem of a wide section of the Brigade.
Necessarily there falls on the Deputy Com missioner-in-Chief a considerable variety of duties, often those not in the public eye but none the less onerous and vitaVy important to a hard-pressed Commissioner-in-Chief. Admiral Wellby quietly and efficiently took on these and his loyal support and wise judgement brought him very genuine 2
gratitude from both the Commissioners-ill-Chief under whom he served. He was a much sought-after visitor to
Counties where his help and advice were so freely and unstintingly given and so gladly received. All this despite his many and varied activities with the Scouts and a number of other public services in his home county.
It is, however, typical of his devotion to St. John that, though he has retired from Headquarters itself, he has taken over as Commander , St. John, in Buckinghamshire as well as remaining on several Headquarters committees, so that his links with St. John Am bulance are by no means severed.
At Headquarters we part with him with regret, but we are glad to know that he is still 'around' and that his example and experience are not lost to St. J Ambulance. We wish him a very happy 'Commandership'
IT SEEMS that comments contained in the June edition of the Review under the heading 'First Aid and the Law' may have been reported out of context and, in consequence, an incorrect interpretation may by placed on the report.
I assume that the talk referred to was in relation to first aiders who are on public duty and their liability in law for treatment negligently given on public duty.
In my view a medical practitioner or a state registered nurse can be sued for negligence whilst on public duty as volunteers; in support of my argument I will quote the following from a well known authority, 'so a doctor who gives first aid to the victim of a traffic accident, although he has a statutory right to recover the cost of his treatment, may find himself sued for negligence by the victim'. It follows in my view that the same right would be exercisable by the casualty against a doctor whilst on public duty, and indeed it would probably extend to a state registered nurse, simply because, as stated, a high degree of skill is expected from such persons.
First aiders at public duty - these are volunteers, but it may not be correct to say that volunteers are 'safeguarded from the law' and would only be liable if grossly negligent. It is probably correct that a considerably lower standard would be accepted in law for an action for negligence by a casualty against a non-medically qualified member, as their knowledge is that much less; for example, at best he need only show that he would have treated himself in exactly the same way as he treated his casualty - but the Court may decide that the degree of skill expected is higher if he is dressed in a well known and respected uniform.
One must, however, have in mind that before any person who is aggrieved by his treatment succeeds in a legal action he must prove negligence and that burden may be difficult to discharge. However, it would not be wise to invite complacency by saying that volunteers are exempt from actions of negligence of any degree.
I would like to quote from the same authority previously mentioned, 'but there may be liability if the defendant is in the position of a master or invitor or the risk has resulted from the use of some instrumentality under his control or he has voluntarily intervened to render help '. 'The result of all this is that the good samaritan who tries to help may find himself mulcted in damages, whilst the priest and the levite who pass by on the other side go on their cheerful way rej oicing'.
St. John Ambulance holds itself out as having members who are trained first aiders, all of whom have taken and passed an examination in adult first aid. The public at large instantly recognise the uniform of memb.ers and request assistance when needed. I would go so far as to say that St. John and any other organisation similarly holding out could be held vicariously liable for the action of its members; that is to say, it could be jointly sued with any of its members in an action for negligence resulting from incorrect first-aid treatment given on public duty. Vicarious liability exists where there is a relationship between master and servant, and to establish this relationship one has to apply what is known as a control test.
The questions asked in the application of this test are: (1) Is the servant under the direction of his employer? (2) Has the mas ter the power to dismiss the employer? And (3) Are wages or other remuneration paid?
You will see from this interpretation that such a relationship normally only exists where the servant is employed by the master, but there is a tendency to extend this further than in the employment context. This means in effect that where a relationship does exist the responsiblity for payment of any damages awarded could be shifted to some other person or body better able to pay.
Our members do not receive wages or remuneration, but in many cases donations are made and accepted by the divisions performing the duty. The organisation
certainly has the power to select the persons going on public duty and suspend them from service of the organisation; to put it simply, therefore, there is a power to dismiss. This could create a form of relationship which has not yet been tested in law but might on some future occasion, and if successful would mean that both member and the organisation would be jointly an d severally liable in law.
A minor under the age of 18 cannot be sued for negligence except through his guardian. There is good sense, therefore, in not permitting cadets to carry out first aid whilst on public duty, since if it is carried out negligently even under supervision, there would probably, in addition, be an action against the organisation and/or the supervisor. Although quite apart from the legal aspect I am reasonably in favour of cadets showing their skills on public duty - not only is it good experience for them but it instills a sense of responsibility - but if I am correct there is this element of risk.
Another point upon which I would like to comment is in relation to a first aider who is injured on duty, St. John insures its members so that any member sustaining injury whilst on duty can be suitably compensated in respect of loss and damage suffered. I would suggest that all policies of insurance are examined closely to ensure that benefits covered are in line with the cost of living, since a man injured on duty is harr:!ly likely to be satisfied with an award for loss of wages of only £5 or £6 a week. These policies , if inadequate, can be increased by paying a higher premium and I would suggest that this should be looked into.
The interpretation of the Law which r have given above represents my own personal view and is not intended to be a professional opinion. I do not hold myself out to be an expert or in any way qualified in these matters; indeed , I would be delighted if any reader has a better interpretation than mine. I as ume tha we are in any event covered by insurance against any of these events: perhaps someone would confirm this.
A PARTY OF ST. JOHN MEMBERS V I SITS T HE CEN T RE OF R'ELIGIONS
by Joyce H amilto n
EASTER 19,1 in Jerusalem Our party of 22 St. John members , who were making a to u r of the H oly Land , were welcomed to J erusalertJ. by a travel agency director who introduced h imself as Archangel Gabriel , whic h was most appropriate, as of course Ga briel is l oved by all religious sects. And 4 Jerusalem can be truly called th e cen tre of most religions. Mr. Ar changel then presented Mr. Elias , a Christian Arab , born and bred in Bethlehem , who was t o dominate our live s for the next si x day s Our p a rty he named collectively 'Sunshine', and if the goats' showed signs Photog aphs
wrap pe d in peace and holin ess. Th e flowe rs were e n c hanting , with blood red po ppi es (bib li cal li li es of the fie ld) and in thei r cen tr e th e b la ck cross of St. J o hn ' arum lili es mustard see d , lili es of the valley, which in Jeru sa lem are the white onion flowers; the star of Bethlehem lying sh y and furry at ground l evel; tall lavatua , white iris and the delicate mauve cyc l amen peeping from walls and cranni es; waffle trees heavy wit h go ld en trunks and delica te lea ves which turn silver in the wind.
The Rev d J. W. van der Ho even B D. warden of the Ga rd en Tomb, guided us aroun d the garden and told us h ow it was di covered in 1867 by General Gordon of Khartoum fame. It is wide ly held among Protestants and Evangelicans that this was the authentic tomb of Christ. A short walk thro u gh the garden brought into sight Gordon's Calvary, so called because the famous general believed that this rock-faced hill was the a uth ent i c Golgotha On this hill stands a Moslem cemetery. The Garden Tomb helps to envisage the tomb of Christ and a little further north we saw a cartwheel -shaped stone blocking the entrance to a tomb, helping us to realise what an immense stone it wa that was rolled away.
The Garden Tomb, Jerusal em, be ieved to be the site of
va ry of straying f rom the 'sheep' (, but let there be no goa t s, h e pl ea ded) he called p e r empt orily: Sun shine Sunshine! This way pl ease.' On the day before G oo d Friday we were tak e n to the Gard e n Tom b just north of t h e Damas cu s Gat e, a lovely enc lo se d garden
That morning we visite d the St. John Ophthalmic H ospital of Jerusalem. Miss Holloway the matron, met us in the hall and after meeting Dr. Batton, the medical superintendent of the hospital, and D e li a, the E ngl ish wife of t h e Archangel Gabriel we we re taken on a guided tour of the hosp i tal. Miss Holloway told us of her experiences during the six-day war.
In 1882 a St. John H ospital confine d to the treatment of diseases of the eye was estab lishe d i n J erusa l e m D estroye d
by the Turks in the 19 14 - 19 18 w ar it was fin ally lost to the Order in the tragic events in 1948 w h en the city of J erusalem was divided between Arab and J ew. A new h ospita l was built in 1960 and provided with facilities f or research.
Surgeons , nurses and or d erlies are t rained here so it s influ ence extends far beyond the boundaries of Jerusal em .
The hospital has 76 beds, two o p e rating th eatres and a large nursing school. It is staffed by si x surgeons. Th e nursing siste rs are British and the nurses Arab. Six thousand surgical operations are performed each year an d o n e hundred
thousand patients are seen. Its activities include an eye bank sponsored by the International Eye Bank of Washington, which concerns itself with corneal grafting.
The wards are attractive and airy and all the beds were occupied by Arabs In the Out Patients Department we saw Arabs in colourful nativ e costumes. The women wore beautiful hand -embroidered bodices , th e d e signs indicating from which distri ct they came Miss Holloway showed us the nurses library, which she had started herself raising funds from England and her friends in Jerusalem. It is a fine library which would be the envy of many training schools in Britain. We were shown the nurses quarters. Rooms were shared by two nurses at their own request , because they all came from large families and dislik e d sleeping alone
The hospital was built and is run entirely on voluntary contributions but because of the present situation its financial state is suffering.
In the afternoon we entered the old city of Jerusalem by St. Stephen's Gate.
We were warned by My. Elias not to give alm s to the many child beggars and to hold grimly on to our handbags which he advised us to tuck fi rmly under our armpits . Inside the gate we passed into 'T he Enclosure of Saladin ' which contains the crusader church of St. Anne and exc avations of the Pool of Bethsada. The ch urc h is so named because Anna and Jo achim the parents of the Virgin Mary , are said to have lived in the grotto beneath it. The church is a fine example of crus ade r simplicity.
We came to the Dom e of the Rock co n s tru c ted by the Moslem s in 691 A D. over. the site where the te mpl e had stood 5
and from where Mohammed is believed to have ascended to heaven. It dominates the temple area and is the earliest example of Arabic architecture in existence The dome, rising to a height of 180 feet, is made of plates of aluminium impregnated with gol9, which gleam s in the sun. The walls are grey veined white marble, the upper part covered with fine porcelain tiles. Before entering the door of the mosque we first had to remove our shoes and then our handbags were checked by guards. Soon we were treading on a rich red carpet which had replaced the usual Persian rugs used for prayer. Beneath the Dome is the sacred rock itself upon which Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac. During the Crusader period (AD 1099-1187) th e mosque became a Christian church. The rock was then surrounded by its present lovely iron grille to prevent pilgrims chipping off pieces as souvenirs.
We entered a gate (opposite the El Aqsa mosque) guarded by two soldiers, who again checked our handbags, and came to an area which until recently the Jews were unable to visit. Here stands th e Warihng Wall, where for centuries Jews have assembled to wail over tlle destruction of the temple and the lost glories of Zion. We were impressed by the immensity of the Herodian stones and saw the modern Jew at th e wall, part of 6
which is set aside for women.
In the temple a rea outside the Arches of the Dome is a small sec lud ed low-walled area where, sitting on the wall under a tree, were two Arabs in colourful robes Mr. Elias told us that they were waiting for the Hadji to come to resolve a dispute between them. This is a simple but effective court for the poor Arab who cannot afford to have his case brough t before the civil courts. Sure eno ugh a Hadji approached and a diSCUSSIon began.
The Hadji is much respected because he ha s visited Mecca, and his decision in a dispute is usually accepted.
That evening we walked from the hotel to the Church of All Nations , which is situated in the Garden of Gethsemane.
We crowded into a dimly-lit vast church, already p acke d with devoted and kneeling worshippers. We stood for one hour while the service wa s chanted in Latin. The beautiful dome and ceili ng s of the churc h were dimly floodlit. Its architects were two b r othe rs, called Barluzzi , who always contrived to make their buildings suggest by their form, architecture and atmosphere the actual event in the life of Christ the church was to commemorate. Thus the Church of All Nations in Gethsemane suggests gloom alilidl agony.
On this sacred spot Theodosius (AD 379-393) erected a basilica (a piece of its mosaic floor can stil l be seen) which was
place.
destroyed by the Persian s and rebuilt by the Crusaders. Because the pre se nt chur ch, comp eted by the Franciscans in 1924 was built from gifts from many lands it is commonly called The Church of All Nations It ha s six columns supporting twelve c upolas, and alabaster windows which admit a dim white a nd purplish light. The effect is one of eveni ng twilight and is deeply moving In the centre of the Sanctuary is the supposed Rock of Agony surround ed by ironwOlk suggestive of sharp thorns.
On Good Friday we passed through Herods' Gate into the old city and came to the Antonia Fortress overlooking th e Temple Area. A t the time of Jesu s, Antonia was the seat of the Roman Governor. From here starts the way of the cross, known as the Via Dolorosa. There are fourteen stations of the cross in Via Dolorosa. The first is the Pretorium, where Jesus was crowned with thorns. That night Jesus was whipped in the Antonia Fortress. The pavement of the fortress h as since been discovered by archaeologist in the convent of the Sisters of Zion. One of the sisters acted as a guide and led u s int o the chapeL We de scended deeper i nto th e building before seeing and standing on the pavem e nt of the courtyard of the Fortress of Antonia , where the public part of the tria l of Jesus probably took
The huge flagstone s are deeply grooved, perhaps to prevent horses fro m slipping, and with gutters to carry away the rain. Some of the flagstones bear marks made by soldiers for games. One of the games was called Basilikos (King), with circ le, sword and crown It is s ugge sted that there cou ld have been a connection between this game of 'kin g' and the game the soldiers played with Christ, mocking him and ca lling him 'King of the Jews'. The second station of the cross is where Je sus received the cross ; the third is an arch over a street where Pontius Pilat e pr ese nted Jesus to the crowds; the fourth is where Jesus met his mother; the fifth station is where Simon of Cyrene helped Jesus to carry his cross; at the sixth station Veronica wiped the face of Jesus ; the seventh, the Judicial Gate ; at th e eighth Jesus spoke to the women of Jerusalem ; at the ninth, the third fal l of Jesus. The last five stations are within the compound of the Holy Sepulchre This was outside the city's limits , so that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre built and rebuilt several times throughout t h e cent uries, may not be the actua l site of the crucifixion. In its rotunda is the smal l s h rine which covers the tradit io nal site of Jesus' tomb. It is the chapel of St Helena, who came to J erusa lem in 326 AD in search of th e 'true cross', which is said to have found on this spot. The Chapel of Golgotha was once covered with mosaics, but on ly frag m ent s of this now remain. It was believed Adam had been buried in the Calvary and his skull was discovered when Christ died. Hence the name of Golgotha the place of the skulL The Holy Sepulchre is shared by representatives of most of the chur ches of Christendom. During Holy Week it offers a range of Christian ceremo nial seen n owhere else in the world. The co nfraternity of t he Holy Sepulchre, which administers the shrine , is predominantly Greek. Walking down the narrow streets packed with small bazaars selling fruit, unleven bread, souvenirs, shee p and goat skins , copper and ornate candles we came to the Citadel, n ear the blocked Jaffa Gate. It was the only fort left by the Romans , as a witness to the magni tu d e of their conquest, after they I destroyed Jerusaiem. It is part of Mount Zion, which exte nds to the south of today's wall, and is among th e holiest sites of Christianity. The Upper Room of the Last Supper and the Pentecost miracle are venerated her e.
In the co u rtyard of the Moslem College of Al'Omariyeh we climbed steps to a verandah from where we had a fine view southward to the Temple Area. Here the processions start along the Via Dolo rosa, for this is the Way of th e Cross, f r om the t o Calvary.
The sun was shining from a c oudless sky upon a well-orderd crowd , some in
modern, others in oriental dre ss. The scene was a blaze of co lour - a photographic paradise. We joined at the end of the procession to walk with them for a sho rt distance. Each group sang its own h y mn as the people walked through the narrow streets.
That afternoon we went by coach to Bethlehem Near to Bethl ehem where the old and new roads come together, there is a little white dome at the side of the road. This is the traditional tomb of Rachel wife of Jacob. Jacob set up a pillar upon her tomb which is still there. Outside the gates leading to the tomb was a mild resigned-looking camel, whose sole purpose in life was to lift tourists awkwardly up and strut a few steps. The owner solemnly told us that this camel was descended from the camels which took the three wise men to Bethlehem! Today garages and petrol stations have invaded the peace of Bethlehem. It was to Bethl ehem that Ruth the Moabitress came to seek refuge beneath the wings of the God of Israel. Within the gates of the city Boaz conferred with the elders and too k Ruth to be his wife. As a boy David played in i ts streets.
In the evening we were taken by Mr. Elias to visit Mr. Kando s shop. Above the shop we assembled in a small room where we were in tro duced to Mr. Kanda and Dr. Saa d. From Dr. Sa ad we heard the story of the discov ery Qf the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Both of these men played a large part in the story and it was indeed fascinating to listen to them, s urrounded by shelves of pottery of various shapes, sizes and ages. We w ere told that most of the pottery
Gate was found in the caves near the Dead Sea and that s-ome of it was 4,000 years. It was all for sale.
We visited the Church of the Nativitiy. Jerome, a monk who lived in Bethlehem in the 4th century A.D, tells how the Emperor Hadrian, in order to block out the remembrance of Christ, planted a grove sacred to Adonis over t he grotto of the Nativity. But in A.D. 336 it was rediscovered by Helena, wife of the Emperor Constantine, who built over it the beautiful basilica, the Church of the Nativity. Damaged by fires and the Samaritan revolt, it was rebuilt by the Emperor Justiman in 528 - 565AD, who gave it the form seen today. Some of the ancient mosaics of the orginal church buil t by Helena can still be seen beneath wooden trap doors which are drawn up for the benefit of visitors. Here one enters the oldest Christian church in the world, stepping into the world of Byzantium. It is a spacious building, with its massive b ea ms made from the cedars of L e banon, and centuries-old mosaics. The church is shared by Greek Orthodox , Latin and American communities, and encircled by the high walls of their three convents. The tiny entrance was to prevent people entering the sanctuary on horseback. From the basilica two stairways lead down into the grotto. The rude cave, forty feet by sixteen and ten high, is now paved and walled in places with marble , and lit by numerous hanging lamps of silver to mark the exact spot of the Nativity , bearing the inscription 'Here Jesu s Christ was born of the Virgin Mary'. (To be continued next month).
The Director General of the Asso ci ation Branch writes:
In evidence submitted by the Royal College of Nursing to the Committee on Nursing under the Ghairmanship of Professor Asa Briggs , the college has recommended , inter ali a, that unqual fied nursing auxiliaries and nursing assistants in hospitals should receive a course o f training based on the s tandard course offered by the three voluntary aid societies.
If this proposal is accepted , an important training obligation will almost certainly arise. New entrants to th e hospital service in this category would reql!.ire such training ; and probably many already in post.
This is just to give you advanc e information of the possibility. Further information will be sent as soon as the views of the Government to this proposal are known. There may be as many as 60,000 people employed in these categories though a large proportion will undoubtedly have received some form of 'in-service ' training from the hospi tals employing them.
We are continually urging the view that the Government may rely with confidence on t he services provided by the voluntary aid societies , and if the commitment arose we should have t o do our best to meet it For th e meantime I shall be glad if you will bear thi s possiblity in mind, so as to be ready to consult with all affected interests if necessary. This is unlikely to be earlier than the beginning of next year.
Following the two happy and successful weeks spent with colleagues of the J ohanni ter- Unfall-Hilfe in Hornum Germany, members of London (Prin c e of Wales's) District were able to re(:iprocate when Richmond Division aGted as ho sts to a group - o f JUH members from Celle when they came to London to compete
BY THE EDITOR
APPOINTMENTS
Cheshire : Chairman St. J o hn Council - Mr. H Wa t so n ( Ct y. Di r.)
Kenya: C.SU.A - Si r Ch a rle s Markham ; Depu t y Co mmi ssi o n er -
Mr. J. P Foster.
Barbados: C.St J.A. - Ca pt. W A. Farmer. Commissioner - Maj o r H. R. Dani el.
Fiji: Chairman o f Coun cil - Dr. C. Gurd.
Priory in New Zealand: Chief Commiss io n e r - Commande r 1. B Campbell. Superintendent-in-Chi ef - Miss J . Motl e y.
in the Ca sualti e s Union co mpeti t ion
They were welcom e d at Liver poo l Str e et station by Dr. Horst Kull ak -Ubli ck , Knight of the J ohanni t erorden and econom ics a dvis er at th e G e rman Embassy ; Deputy Comm is sioner a nd Mr s Derek Fenton ; Divisional Supt G eo rg e Healy and membe r s of Ri chm o nd Divisio n who took th e JUH m e mbers t o their homes . Firs t th e visitors und e rt oo k
intensiv e t rai ni n g to acc lim at ise th e ms e ves wit h o u r i deas . L a t er they me the Mayor of Ri ch m on d and t h e n we n t to th e Jub ilee Da n ce of t h e Willes d en Nursing Divisi on, wh er e t hey m et m any m emb ers w h o earli er t his year went to Mannh eim.
A large contingent of St. J ohn supp o rt e r s, i ncl ud in g those who we n t to Hornum , we r e a t G ui ness B rewe r y, P ar k R oyal, th e fo llo w ing d ay to see the JU H t ea m t ak e pa rt in the Cas u a lt ies Un ion com p etitio n . Altho u gh they were not su cces sf ul i n win nin g any t rophies, t h e visi t ors gave a n exce ll ent an d cre di tab le p e r fo rm a n ce
On th eir l as t d ay h er e t h ey were taken ar o und L o nd o n whi ch in cl ud ed St. John s Gat e and th e S t ores, and l a t e r t h ey
w e r e gu es t s of th e Lon d on A mb u l ance
S ervi ce, wh ere th ey m et Mr. W. Cooke (c hi ef o f f ce r ) and Mr. J Moss (chief con t ro su peri n te n dent).
Th e r ecen tl y a pp ointed Surg eo n- in -Ch ief of t h e J UH , Dr. Gerhar d Sa tt elm ac h e r , was wi th th e pa rt y, w hich was le d b y H err Bu rk h ar d Kuh tz.
TO US
I h ear t h at th e first n urse fr o m Coventry's Wa lsgr av e H os p i t al to be sent abroa d for sp eciali st t rai ni ng is a n ex-SJ A cadet a n d prese nt n u rsing offi ce r of t h e Coventry
All esl ey and R ad f ord A mbu lance a n d
Nursi ng Div isi on - 27 -yea rs-o ld Sister Sy lvia Y o ungj o hn s .
Mrs G. R D S haw wa s pres en ed with a gla ss decan er by Briga d e Pe te r Bar c I a y , Co u n y Com mi ssioner o r - N orf ol k , when sh e re red ece ntly 17 year s as Cou nty Sup e ri n te ndent (N u rsing) o r Nor olk. Mrs Sh a w o ined the Brig a d e in D a v e n r y 35 years a go
Mi s s Yo u n g j 0 h n s , who is sis t e r-i n- ch arge of the ur ology departme n t at Co ve nt ry, is goi n g to st ud y .rena l d i seases for th ree mo nt hs at the Mo nt e fi o r e Hospi t al Ne w York. Her fare is b eing paid by the Walsg r av,,; Vo lun teers.
An exc i ted Miss Y o un gj o hn s sai d w hen sh e h ear d t h e news: 'I was as k ed by the se ni o r co nsu ltant uro l ogist if I wo uld li ke to d o so m e extra stu dy an d at first I t ho ught t wo uld be somewhere i n
En gl a nd. Mu ch to my surpr ise I found I was goi n g to t h e Thited States.' Have a good ti m e, Sy lvia.
NEVER, NEVER , NEVER T h e following - My 1 1 Hours' Nightmare by Area Superinte n dent J. W. Pope of Kent - was sent to me:
In July 1971 I received a phone call asking if I would arrange first aid cover for a 'Pop Festival'. Wi thout hesitation, I agreed. The festiva was schedu led to take place at Harmo ny Farm Dud dl eswell, Sussex, a few m il es over the Ke n t/S u ssex border , which necessitated a call to our County Office and to Sussex County Office for approval. I felt it necessary to take charge of this duty myself and contacted the divisional superintendent of Tunbridge Wells for ambulance and nursing personne l and for the use of the ambulance , Landrover and first ai d caravan. With the utmost co-operation, everything requ i re d was placed at my disposal.
The event was on August 7 and I gave the duty no more thought until on August 6 when I noticed groups of 'hippy ' - style boys and girls making their way through Tunbridge Wells and it suddenl y dawned on me - 'What have I let myself in for'. There was no turning back, however.
Next day I travelled to the site in t h e ambu lance ahead of the main party to make contact wit h the organisers and to sort out the facilities for our operations . When I arrived I was introduced to the doctors, who strange ly enough were ' h ippy -types' too.
At first the festival brought routi ne work - remova of filthy bandages from wounds and dirty rags from sore feet; general clean-ups clean dress ings for wounds, cleaning dirty feet and maki ng them comfortable.
T h en a young man staggered in and said he had taken the drug known as 'b lues'. This situatio n was n ew to me. I cou l d not answer whe n he asked how long th e effects wou ld last. Then followed another yo u ng man .in a state of collapse, w h o had been taking a different type of drug. I called a doctor to attend to them.
To me the most heartrendering case of
the afternoon was a young girl of about 17 to 18 years of age who collapsed outside our first-aid caravan. We brought her in and laid her on the bed and she came round at intervals, tossing and turning, and crying out: 'O h God, I can't stand it!'
Another case I should mention was a young man who had taken so much of a ce1itain type of drug th a t it took five of us to carry him to a tent for treatment. He was very violent. He had taken so much of the drug that at first heavy sedation failed to quieten him.
I felt I must write this as a grave warning to our cadets and other young people: NEVER EXPERIMENT WITH DRUGS.
999 TAPE
I hear that the GPO has produced a tape recQrding running for about 8 minutes entitled 'The Emergency Call', which gives the correct and incorrect ways of calling emergency services; a simple enough matter, some may say, but possibly the difference between life and death for someone.
The tape is available, free of charge, from the Telephone Manager's office in all London areas only.
Mr. T. G. Ryan , county surgeon SJA Oxfordshire, reports:
Exercise 'Train Disaster', held at Oxford during October, was a large and ambitious exercise involving up to 400 people. It s u cceeded because it was stimulating, a nd received the interest and support of senior executives in a number of organisations. The Post Offic e engineers and British Railways first-aiders in particular were gratified by the encouragement and co-operation they received. Two excellent coaches were brought down from London, and rooms were made available for Casualty Union and for first aid to the injured on British Railw ays premise s. The manager of Telephone House, Oxford, and his wife inspected the scene, and refreshments for several hundred people were provided in Telephone House after the event. Press and Radio Oxford were much in evidence.
' The Scene.: This was in a siding near Becket Street. Two coac hes had rammed a car into a guard's van alongside a goods train. Access was complicated by the heaps of coal an d a demolition yard. The exercise took place after dark.
Mrs Rose Clifton has run the Nursing Cadet Division at the vi llage of Benwick, Nr. March, in Cambridgeshire, for 23 years Without fHlm an adult dil,;sion, This fen and village's nursing division closed in 1948 Mrs. Clifton, with her current clutch of. cadets looks happy enough - and unlonely.
The Casualties: Abingdon Casualty Union did an excellent job in providing large numbers of adults a nd children - rnany of he latter were SJ A cadets. There were about 150 ca sualties 30 of these had se vere injuri es, and included 3 i n t h e much - batt e red car. The use of 'stick on' wounds for the maj ority of casualties was justified by the speed with which these cas ualties were prepared. It IS not wise to hav e some 150 cas ualt ies hanging around a rai lway for several hours while being made up On t hi s occasion the majority of casualties w ere waiting for less than an half-an-hour.
The police were helpful in controlling crossing of the railway lines, for the m ai n fears of the organisers were that real casualties might be provided by pas sing trains , or by the large amount of broken glass from the train windows ; but there fears were not realised. The event was fully insured at a cos t of £3.
The eldest cas ualty was a n 80-years-old, 16 stone rnan who was the centre attraction for the Press.
The Rescue : A twelve-rnan Bri tis h Railways tearn arrived first on the scene. They , of course, had the know-how for opening the doors, unfixing brakes in the guards's van and providing lighting. The latter in fact was operating too soon so far as the Organisers were concerned, since we had planned more use of torches and provision of lighting by the Fire Brigade.
Three teams from British Leyl a nd operated special equipment for mobilising the heavy ironware and extracting the injured.
Some 100 first aiders from Aylesbury High Wycombe and Oxford Post Offi ce engineers arrived within 10 minutes , a nd
very rapidly removed all casualties from the scene.
The Ambulance Services: Wheatley and Bicester SJA supplied ambu1ances, and Mr. C, R. Lawrence, chief ambulance officer of Oxford City and County Ambulance Service provided two further ambulances. The arrival and dispersal of these ambulances was not satisfactory. The main reaSOn for this could be blamed on the fact that this was an exercise - not a real-life situation. In a real-life situation, casualties would have been evacuated directly to hospital, more ambulances would have been available, the rate of removal of casualties from the train would have been much slower, and, above all, the police would have provided more exacting centra l con trol of services.
Clearing Station: In order to give more experience to first-aid teams it was planned to provide a room on the station where casualties could be re-assessed, treated and disposal planned. Severe casualties wou ld then be carried to hospital (Telephone House). This was unrealistic, and the use of ambula n ces for the separate journeys, from tr a in to station and then to Telephone House, simply did not work
However , a nurnber of SJA nurses setting up the room at the station no doubt got a very exact impression of the chaos that can result in a casualty department if a large nurnber of casualties arrive, and rnost of them have received inadequate first-aid labelling , etc.
The First Aid: The speed with which casua l ties were removed from the scene resulted in inadequate assessment and attention to wounds. This is, of course, a generalisation - some treatrnent was no doubt excellent, but I was not there to observe it.
One objective was that minor injuries shou ld be quickly sorted out and looked after by the Women's Voluntary Services , who provided two excellent urns of tea. In a real-life situation I think this might have worked, but in the artificial situation it is much more difficult to assess what was severe and what was minor. In future exercises much more planning of minor injuries will be required so that they do not get confused with major injuries, We aimed to have a centra l source of first-aid materials as well as some individual kits . In practice it seemed as though not enough dressings were used and this may have been due to lack of comm unication between sources of material and the first -aider. Some 30 Brigade mernbers attended as first-aiders ; many cadets were casualties.
Lost Property: Far too m a ny belongings got mislaid. In future, instructions to
proposed casualties should incl ude advice on what to carry with them and where to put it.
Essential Follow Up: I 's trongly advise all participants in this exercise to plan during the coming winter small exercises with about 10 to 15 first -aiders and 15 to 20 casualties. The aim should be to give the most detailed and thorough first aid possible, and to repeat the exerGise until you have got it right.
St John for Sornerset s 1970 Year Book (No. 26), 132 pages packed with articles, news and photographs, is available price 15 p a copy (plus 8 p post and packing) from St. John House, 41 Oxford St., Weston-super-Mare, or St. John House 60 Staplegrove Rd., Taunton.
The 100-page Malta Diamond Jubilee Celebration book, compiled by Nottinghamshire's County Staff Officer W. L. Ashmore, is now available 23p a copy from Area Staff Officer, W. F. Shaw 40 Furlong Avenue, Arnold, NG5 7 AP.
The words holiday camps' bring to mind excited families going off for holidays, but holidays for the disabled are just as e njoy able; in fact , to many of the disabled they mean more than a holiday does the average family, writes Mrs. Jeanne Mercer , area superintendent (N) Kent NO.3 Area.
Every year the Kent Association for the Disabled holds special camps at the beginning and end of the normal holiday season at The Golden Sand Holiday Camp at Dymchurch and Maddisons Holiday Camp, Littlestone. The camp owners provide the normal staff and facilities while the care of the disabled is by volunta r y services - mainly by members of the St. John Ambulance and the British Red Cross Society Many members give up a week's holiday to help at the camp, while others go for a few hours in the morning or evening to lend a hand.
Many of the disabled are confined to wheel-chairs , other need specia l facilities in the chalets, so much thought has to be given to the holiday by the secretary of the Kent Association for the Disabled. Lists of visitors are prepared with chalet numbers and any special requirements they need - extra pillows, bed-boards, blocks, rubber sheeting, commodes.
A team of St. John nurses including nursing cadets usually attends to these requirements, while ambulance cadets assist the ambulance members to unload the different vehicles as they arrive at the camp. St. John mli:mbers also reassure the campers that they will be well looked after, as for some it may be their first camp holiday Other carnpers of course return annually.
At first it is surprising how differently one has to look at the problems of disabled peopl e For example , in going to bed. Last year one gentleman sent a cadet to me to say that he would have to go home, so I hurried to find out why. He had an artificial leg, and he said that he would be unable to manage with the furniture, especially the bed arranged as it was. We soon had him laughing by calling him "The Superintendent of Works" and with the help of four ambulance cadets we moved the dressing table, chair and bed. A nursing cadet fetched him a c up of tea, and within an hour he knew he was going to be one of the happiest carnpers that week.
The camp entertainment is as varied as possible and suited specially for the handicapped. Several SJ A divisions go to help at the ca mp for the eve n ing instead of holding a drill night. The Rotary Club of Hythe regularly arranges for the handicapped campers to go to the local pub, where the piano is brought out on to a forecourt so that wheel-chairs can be easily manoeuvred. A good sing-song follows, with beer and sandwiches provided by the Rotarians
The arrangements for the medical supervision of the campers is under the control of a resident matron, who has some SRNs and SENs to assist her. The voluntary helpers are formed into teams, each with a leader so that new comers are not working on their own The chalets are patrolled at night, in case of need, and each team looks after its own group of chalets, so that the occupants know exactly who is their team .
Trips are arranged to the nearby sea-front and on most afternoons there are coach outings to the nearby towns and countryside. It was on these trips that the mobile fork-lift chair, which is hydrauli cally operated, came into use for the first time this year. Produced by Mr. Buss of Messrs Rootes Ltd, Maidstone, Kent it cost £225, (See photograph). St. John members contributed 1,367\12 hours of voluntary work at the two camps this year, 100 hours by cadets.
Mobile fork-lift chair gives better holidays for disabled
SJA BUCKS EMERGENCY CRASH CREW
by Brian Rockell, area staff officer
IT HAD LONG been thought necessary, both by SJ A Bucks and the autocross clubs of the area, to have a special type of highly-trained rescue unit for autocross events and car crashes. The clubs decided to raise funds to provide a purpose-built vehicle, while we were to train a team of highly-experienced members to man the unit.
The unit is to be based on a Land-Rover, as there had often been problems with conventional ambulances attending the scene of am incident because of the adverse ground conditions.
The training ()f the unit was supervised by Dr. M. Gillison (county surgeon) and Miss N. Sale (county training officer) and started with a large scale 'examinahon' of prospective members at an Army training 12
caIlilp at Beaconsfield early in 1970 All the prospective members (of which many attended) undertook an intensive, timed, car-driving test involving difficult manoeuvres a round obstacles, physical fitness tests (and carrying a stretcher loaded with tyres and pushing a car exhausted even the fittest of us), followed by situations in which several people (supplied by Casualties Union) had been injured. These thorough tests sorted out the 'men from the boys', but it is pleasitlg to report that the one nursing member entrant passed with flying colours
In May 1970 the su ccessfu l members went on to more specialised training, under the of an experienced car-breaker, on how to assess crashes, the
destructive and had wrecked cars from Slough to Oxford both by fire and crash to simulate accidents (I should add that we always h a d the owners permission ). Also a n essential part of our training was the advanced first-aid instruction we re c ei ved from Dr. Gillison, which induded maintaining clear airways in awkward positions, use of Brooks Airways ·Bofor stretchers, etc.
We were able to practice more fully during October 1970 when Lord Camoys generously donated to SJA Bucks a Land Rover, which, although ultimately to be a County co ntrol vehicle, was used by the Special Duty Unit until the autocross clubs provided t he purpo se -buil t vehicle. Lord Camoys also allowed us to use the extensive ground s of his house, which are full of undulating terrain, for practise driving. This terrain really proved the worth of a Land Rover , and we all pr actise d and passed another driving test in proficiency with the Land Rover. The Land Rover was c ap a ble of dealing with the most difficult terrain and only once failed to pull - on a steep grass hill covered in a foot of snow when all traction was lost. The 2286cc engine, driv en through a combination of sixteen differen t gearings , has proved ade qua te fo r all the situations we subsequently encountered
To decide on equipment for the vehicle was a monumental task and a committee of si x member s was formed , with regular meetings held during the autumn and winter of 1970. We had gained co nsid e rable practical experience in the preceding months and this helped us immensely A extensive range of equipment was finally purchased and
A series of action photographs of the Bucks Special Duty Unit are available from Mr. Rockell, 6 Glanmor Rd, Upton Lea, Slough, Bucks, for SJA units who would like them.
so me amendments were made to the vehicle : a Hella blue beacon, Marchal alternating air horns, a V.H.F. radio (Sierra Juliet 30), and later a hardtop were all added Mobile equipment in c Iud e d co m p rehe nsi v e firs t-aid equipment (including inflatable splints), asbestos fire suit, wrecking equipment for forcing interlocked vehicles, Furley and Bofor stretchers, BCF carbon dioxide and foam extinguishers, together with axes, knives, tow ropes, portable lighting eq u i pment and many other items. Interior spotlights and shelving are to be added this winter.
The crew was equipped with safety hel mets, special boiler suits reflective jackets and safety shoes with hard toecaps.
The first duties for the unit involved attending Point-to-Point meetings , and it was not until April 1971 that we attended an autocross meeting. This meeting, at Studley Green in Bucks, was also to be used as a demonstration of our efficiency to the spectators, with a collection afterwards. The climax of demonstration was to be the rescue of two casualties from wrecked cars borrowed from a local garage. But our the demonstration was to be the rescue of when just before the planned start one of the competing cars, a Ford Escort, overturned on a bend. We were on the scene within 7 seconds (yet to be bettered), to take the patient across the rough field to one of the two attending
ambulances, for transfer to Wycombe General Hosp i tal.
Since the unit has attended many duties , but the autocross events have never failed to provi de us with an intense sense of excitment, and plenty of experience from the inevitable crashes and fires. Although the unit was primarily meant for transfering patients awaiting ambulance s, on occasions our vehicle has been used for transporting a patient to hospital. On one occasion it transported an uncon scious casualty 15 miles to the nearest hospital when the attending ambulan ce had a similar casualty
The first out-of-the-county duty was at Abbotts Langley Hertfordshire , for Chess Valley Motor Club, where we liaised most successfully with divisions of Watford (London District) and Hemel Hempstead (Hertfordshire). The radio network proved invaluable, our 'Sierra Juliet' call-sign intermingling with their 'Lima Delta' transmitters, and we est a blished excellent team work at this 'three-county ' duty. There was only one spill that afternoon when a Mini overturned , and although we were very quickly on the scene our services were not needed, for the driver was fortunately unhurt.
We now await the vehicle that is being donated by the autocross clubs, which we hope will provide adequate locker space for the ever-increasing range of equipment that we are finding it necessary to car ry. We also have more recruits for the unit who are about to join a winter training course. And it is still only 18 months since the original recruits set forth to gain an insight into car -racing rescue work.
easiest way to open crashed vehicles, and the necessary, personal safety precautions. We then had practical experience of this training working with crashed cars (it was a saddening sight to attack brand new cars with crow-bars).
One of the most important aspects of the training was fiFe fighting, which was given during the early summer by Bucks Fire Brigade at High Wycombe and by the Safety Officer of I.C.I. Paints Division , Mr. J. Sim , who is also the training officer for the South Bucks Area Sff A. On an I.C.I. site we set fire to an old car and used extinguishers . with dry-powder, foam, water , carbon dioxide and BCF to decide which was the most efficient. By the latter part of the year the twenty-two members of the unit had proved most
EARLY THIS YEAR PMerborough's Werrington Nursing Cadet Division held a parents' evening with a differencewhich they called 'This is Your Life as a St. John Nursing Cadet'.
Originally, the evening was to be the usual presentation of awards followed by coffee but the Division's new Vice-President Mrs. C Cary said she wondered if parents really knew what St. John cadets were taught. She felt that parents only too often received the reply 'Oh, we did a bit of first aid' to their en q Ul fl e s S 0 Act in g D i vis ion al Superintendent Mrs. P. H. Davenport decided the evening should include demonstrations of cadet activities , and soon the division swung into planning and rehearsing . Headquarters ambulance cadets were asked to act as patien ts, scene shifters and electricians. The Area Commissioner Dr. H. M. Weaver, County Cadet Officer Miss M. Day, and the Division's President and Vice-President, together with parent s and friends of all the cadets, were invited. The evening began with six junior cadets demonstrating bandaging, while the commentator explained everything that St. John juniors are taught. (Photo 2)
As the juniors left the hall scene-shifters quickly set the stage for a first-aid demonstration Demonstrations took place in the centre of the hall so tha t eve ry one could get a good view of what was happ ening. In this scene a young lad and his si ster at home need to chan ge a light bulb H e climbs on to a
by A. R. Davenport,
county staff officer
table, but unable to reach the bulb he puts a chair on to the table - the chair slips and he falls, resulting in a wound to the head and a fractured left leg His sister (a junior) realising he needs help runs up the road to the local St. John hall, where she knows the cadets are meeting. The cadet team enter th e scene and the patient is treated and wrapped up ready for the arrival of the ambulance.
The next scene involved a patient in bed. (Photo 3) It was explained to the audience that this is a sick room at home and the boy is unable to get up Two nursing cadets enter to wish the patient good-morning, and then take his temperat ur e, pulse and respiration , recording them on the patient's chart. With the patient still in bed, they also change the bottom sheet and generally
make him comfortable.
Care of the patient was continued in the next scene with child care, complete with bath and a drying horse for clothes. (Photo 4) While the baby was bathed, dressed for bed and his food prepared, the audience was told of all aspects of child care that cadets are taught.
P a tient care, in the next scene, included animals, when the Division's mascot 'B oot' , a golden Labrador , play e d his part in the evening. (Photo 5) Led in by his cadet handler, Boot was wearing his ca pe emblazoned with t he words St. John, Werrington , which was made for him by the handler and his badges. As h e was led around the hall (thoro ughly enjoyi ng it all, by the way) the audience was told about animal-care instruction.
The next scene involved a weekend camp. Six girls entered the hall, and while four of them erected a frame tent, the other two s tarted to cook supper. The 13ft by 11ft tent was erected in 6 minutes which many campers in the audience thought impressive. The commentator explained that ridge tents are usually used for camping, but the frame tent saved having to put tent pegs into the floorboards! Likewise, at camp cooking was over an open fire , but tonight portable stoves were being used as the hall authorities objected to a real fire!
With the tent erected an d supper cooking, two girl hikers appeared on the scene from the far end of the hall. They stop to c h eck their map and directions with a compass Having decided which way to go, they arrive at the camp. From the other end of the hall two a mbulance cadets come on the sce ne Knowing the girls are camping they hav e decided to go hiking and - their ro ute pure coincidence, of course - has led them to the girls' camp' The commentator exp lain ed that this was intended to show t h e SJ A divisions meet socially, such as at cadet field days, Xm as parties and
contests
With the girls and boys together at t he camp, an artificial camp -fi re complete with dancing flames wa s brought into the centre of the hall. All the cadets and their officers sat around the fire as the lights in the hall were lowered and the audience wa s asked to join in the songs Everyone was in full voice, singing: Camp Fires Burning , I Love to go Awandering , When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again, etc. The lights faded complete ly , to bring to a close the first part of the evening The second part began with the Division fallen-in in parade order by the senio r cadet an d i n specte d by Dr. Weaver and Miss Day. Presentation were then
made , which include d two new shields, one for juniors, the other f or cadets. Awarded every three months, these shields are for attendance, punctuality, good work and smartness, for which cadets can win points. This was explained to the audience. Then the Division's President Mrs. Powell presented the junior shield to Julie Strong, an d the cadet shield to Cadet Le slie Peck. To round off this enjoyable 'This is Your Life' evening, Area Commissioner Dr. H M. Weaver said in a short speech: 'This has been a most interesting and stimulating evening.' To which eve ryone , t he audience and those who took part , agreed.
from J. E. Smith, area staff officer
In his article Halt! Who goes there? (August Re'ViewJ Mr. Cooper mentions himself as a 'distraught' cadet superintendent at having to part with his senior cadets to adult status. We do not have to make our cadets 'promote' to adults at the age of 16, if they are not acceptable in any way, but I would say that if we had used all our influence on the cadet side to promote more cadets in the past the Brigade would not be in the position of declining membership as it is today.
In the old days when cadet officers blamed adults, and adult officers blamed the cadet staff for lack of 'transfers', as they were called, we were in a position of stalemate.
Now that we must promote them at 18 and that permission can be obtained to start new young adult units, I get the impression that we do have a good number of young people in the adult ranks. I always look for this in photographs in the Review.
On the question of cadet ages, I do agree we are losing potential cadets because we do not have any real policy for juniors, 8 to 11. There just does not seem to be much they can do, other than if the officer concerned runs this age group on cub-scout' methods. We could well lower the age from 11 years to 10 for the Essentials of First Aid. (What a silly term for an examination , what was the matter with 'Basic First Aid'?)
On Proficiency subjects, it is untrue that a cadet only has four years to obtain the Grand Prior. If he does promote to adults, he can continue there. In any case, if a cadet is well on the way to the 12 certificates at 16 years , here is perhaps a reason for delaying promotion (with his permission) to adults for a year. Even when he is in the adult ranks surely the officer-in-charge of cadets could arrange something with the adult superintendent or give the member facilities to obtain the other certificates while in the adults?
It is no use blaming the 'other people'. It is all a matter of friendly relationships
I agree proficiency subjects do take too long to get through before the cadet h as anything to show for all his work. We must not however lower the standard in any way, as is suggested by Mr. COOP(U; but each subject could be split up a little , with a certificate for each part; this might help, as we have the badge and numeral to show how many subj ects have been passed.
The only comment on cadet unifo rms I must make is that they cost a lot nowadays without making them more 'exot ic'. The SJ junior uniform however should look a little less like a cadet uniform -a different hat perhap s.
With regard to adult uniforms I still want to know why officers have to have a different style of uniform than amb ulance members. This habit is costing St. John a lot of public mon ey in changing uniforms when a member is promoted or returning to the ranks. Could someone in authority answer this in the Review, please?
On Flag Days - of course we should have a national day or week , common to all districts.
On amalgamations - our divisions are below strength, but the thing to note is that more resignations follow as soon you amalgamate (not everyone gets on together), thus reducing the overall membership What the answer to that is I don't know
On finance - I a gree, our financial commitments have got out of the realms of jumble sales and draws
On equipment and training - we co-operated twice in the past with Government Civil Defence to the detriment of the Brigade, as participation split us up. What did we get out of it in the end?
Not a single item of e quipment, not even a request to see if we could take over the duties of Civil Defence within St. John, as Mr. Cooper so rightly points out. All that equipment stacked up, when it could have helped us considerably. I know some commissioners tried to get something within their own counties, but no one listened Perhaps we could hear from a senior officer the true facts about this, and what has been tried?
The only way we are going to get an increase in adult
16
Readers' views and opinions, which should be sent to the Editor, although published are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor or the Order of St. John and its Foundations Although readers may sign published letters with a pen·name, writers must supply their name and address to the editor.
The Review highlights this very problem. We read of events and see pnotogliaplils of members doing things we, elsew her e, ate told we cannot do. Why? If members can do it, say, in Nottingham or Birmingham, can we not do the same things in London? Why can cadets for instance use walkie-talkies in one part of the country a nd not in another? Why are cadets allowed on duty till gone 10pm (actually seen o n television) in one plac e and not in another?
I sn't it about time o ur organisation got itself organised, and a ll memb ers, no matter which part of the co untry they come from, be covered by one set of regulations? Working for one organisation The St. John Ambulance to the benefit of the ge neral public, who, after all, believe that is what we a r e Southall, Middx. Arthur Meads
from D. R. Brown
me to make contact with the J ohanniter Unfall-Hilfe while on holiday a month ago.
After writing to the add r ess su ppli ed by you I was informed that my letter has been forwarded to the J oha nnit er headquarters in Bonn, who in turn wrote asking for my holiday address. The outco me of this correspondence was that my family and I, together with some friends (a party of seven in all), were invited to spend a weekend with the members of the Bad Nauhein and Friedberg Unit of the JUH who really went to great pains to make our visit interesting. During the weekend we visited various places of interest including an 11th century St. John Chapel at Neider Weisel and the JUH ambulance po st o n the nearby a utobahn. The male members of the par ty also took part in a l2km folk walk
I personally took advantage of the occasion to have discussions with various members of the JUH on their work and organisation, and they were equally interested to know how the Brigade worked. Addresses we re excha nged and it is hoped that this may lead to further discussions, by post, of the various aspects of our work.
membership is through the ca dets Our only h ope for surviva l is for officers , adult and cadet, to resolve their differences, recruit more cadets, run more junior first-aid courses a nd after giving the newcomers a good time duri ng the 50th anniversary ce ebrations n ext year, set about keeping them. B etchworth, Surrey.
A PLEA FROM THE DARK
from Mrs. H. Smith, nursing member
1. E. Smith
I am writing 01: behalf of at lea st five nurses in my division (including myself) and probably many other SJ A nursing members. Our all-black uniforms are fine in the summer when evenings are light, but now the dark winter evenings are here so is the risk of some of us being involved in road accidents.
We are trained to give first aid when required. But has anyon e given our uniform s a 'down -to-eart h' thought?
The ambulance members have their white hat bands and bags, but we are in all black. F luor escent arm bands are of no use for they only show up in the vehicle's lights.
Recently, one of our n ew members was just missed wh en on a zebra crossing; the car driver's languag e when he s topped is unrepeatable. I was on a moped signalling to turn right when a car had to swerve drastically to avoid m e Another member was waiting at a bus stop in uniform after dark in a poorly-lit street.
The bus approached and passed by - the driver hadn t even se e n her signalling it to stop!
Before we nursing members can administer first aid on winter evenings, our own safety must be considered. Putney, London. H. Smith
WHY, WHY, WHY from Arthur Meads, divisional officer
The St. John Ambulance? Or is it? This is the title we a re known by the public. But amongst ourselves, it is us and them. Us being the ambulance members, and them being the nursing members. Us the ambulance cadets, and them the nursing cadets.
Until we ourselves think St. John Ambulance how can we gi ve of our best?
Our funds, which are larg e ly donated by the public, are given to the St. John Ambulance. Not to any particular unit. So why is the St. John Ambulance divided in each town, as am bulance division, nursing division, ambulance cadet division, and nursing cadet division? Surely we should be one and our funds used as one, and not be split into maybe seven or eight accounts? How can we use funds which are donated by the public to their advantage when so much is wasted equipping four separate units in each town?
Why are not General Regulations the only regulations? Why is it that different regulations are found in all part s of the count r y? Surely, as a voluntary organisation, th e more regulations iF! existence the l es s voluntary we becom e ?
I think it would be a good idea if our organisation foHowed the examp l e of th e police forces and modified the present plain black hat band of the officers (amb ulance ) cap in order to di sti nguish members of oUL" organisation from th e many' plain-hatted organisations n ow in existence. I suggest that the new cap band which could be made loose to enab le it to be fitted to existing caps, s h ou ld be white, lik e the present a mbulan ce members, with a broad black stripe in the centre. Like this:
Although our visit entailed a journey of about 100 miles each way, the whole party felt that the weekend had been most in structive and
While on the subj ect of ca p s, do other ambulance members of the organisation think it would be a good idea for the amb ulance members' cap to be made of the same quality as the officers caps?
I think the existing ambulance members ca ps are of a somewhat cheap and nasty manufacture. This would also enab le the Brigade to standardise on one type of cap a nd issue the approp iate band with it.
Loughborough D. R. Br own
PEN PALS from L. G. Templeton, county secretary I have been approached by the following cadets who wou ld like to find pen friends in other co un tries in order to qualify for their international f ri
from H J. Earle, corps staff officer
I would like to thank you for the assistance given which enabled
Members of t h e Germa n Malteser-Hilfsdienst from Kreis Coppinger were guests of SJA Worcestershire's Bedw a rdine and Powick Nursing Cadet Division recent l y Their two-week visit inc lud ed a first-aid compe t ition wi th their trips to the coast a nd London, and a visit to the home of the SJ A Country President , the Cou nt ess of Beauchamp (see photo), with Mrs. A. M. Fie ld , superintendent of Bedwa!l"dine and Powick nursing cadets , who organised the visit. Last year Mrs. Field took a group of cadets to Goppingen.
(Photo: Berrow's Newspapers, Wor c ester)
by Derek Llewelyn-hmes Faber £2_25
The author is a well-known obstetrician and gynaecologist and his work is respected throughout the profession. This new book is an attempt to put before the ordinary woman facts which vitally concern her. He begins with a discussion on the difference between the sexes and then dev€!lops his theme through the beginning of human life to the menopause. He gives a lucid explanation of the problems of adolescence and the changes that occur in the body each month. He approaches, in a most sympathetic way, the sexual role in marriage, contraceptive techniques problems of infertility and pregnan cy. The illustrations are clear and factuaL His aim w a s 'to avoid the whirlpool of brusque clinical detail and the rosy, romantic of purple prose'. He has, I think, succeeded and produced an easily read factual bock that would be of help to any young woman as well as those who are t€!aching the young or have growing families of their own.
A CONCISE TEXTBOOK FOR MIDWIVES
by Douglas G. Wilson Clyne
Faber £ 1.40 (paperback) £2.50 (cloth)
This is the third edition of this textbook since 1959. Its presentation is based on questions set by the examining bodies in the United Kingdom. This, I think, limits its use for St. John members as there is not the same continuity of ideas as in the more conventional text bock. It is, however, useful as a means of revision for a pupil midwife and this edition has been expanded and brought up-to-date.
Rosemary Bailey, MTD, RNT, DN (Lond)
EMERGENCIES IN MEDICAL PRACTICE (9th Edition)
by C. Allan Birch
Churchill Livingstone, £6.00
Any book which has reached nine editions in twenty-three years is worthy of respect and this volume is no exception
Dr. Birch has gathered a worthy team of twenty-seven contributors who cover every conceivable type of emergency in thirty-one chapters which range from five to thirty-six pages in length.
It is of great interest to read this with the standard 'First Aid' by, one's side and readers of the St. John Review are urged to do so. Dr. Birch and his colleagues are starting where 'First Aid' finishes and it is to the credit of all that the transition is smooth and almost always, so far as your reviewer can perceive, without detriment to the patient.
Of particular interest are the chapters on resuscitation, acute poisoning, fits, faints and unconsciousness, as well as the references to burns and shock.
The number of references given after each chapter is highly variable, from none 18
to fo r ty-six. In dis cussing carbon monoxide poisoning (p. 19) the work of Spencer might well deserve m e ntion. Again in chemical burns of the eye (p 453) insufficient emp h asis is laid on the need tc irrigat e for a prolonged period. References are probably desirable becau se most chapters are so well and succinctly written that the reade r will be encouraged to read further.
The final c hapter on practical procedures is full of sound advice and it is followed by a ser ies of 18 appendices in which information often sought but never found is clearly laid out.
As might be expected from this stable the typography and layout are immaculate. There is an adequate index
Altogether a book to be highly recommended.
MODERN TRENDS IN ACCIDENT SURGERY IN MEDICINE VOL II.
Editor: P. S. London, M.B.E., F.R.C.S. Butterworths £4.50
This is a thoughtful and lucid work which combines commonsense with aca demi c expertise and is particularly excellent in that it follows the injured patient's progress through the rehabilitation period to whatever type of normal life and employment is achievable.
Th@ sections lucidly written by experts in their field , deal mainly with head injuries , wound infections of every type including burn plastic surgery thoracic surgery, peripheral vascular injury, abdominal injury, and the role of implants in fracture treatment.
There is a pleasant , stimulating atmosphere about the book in that it is challenging and informative rather than authoritarian.
It should certainly be in the hands of every surgeon concerned with accident work, but there is no doubt that the General Practitioner will find much to interest him in its pages, as indeed will the lay accident official who is usually after all, the first to see and deal with the injured patient.
J. C. F. Cregan, MC , FRCS. THE WORLD SAVES LIFE THE WORLD FIGHTS FIRE by Maurice Rickards Longman £ 1.20 each
These 96-page boo b may conveniently be reviewed together, They can be regarded as an illustrated essay on each subject. In some ways they resemble an
en cy clopa e dia article.
Obviously in such a short space neither subject can be dealt with in depth
One suspects that they will be used as e ducational books and for this purpose they will serve for those who are doing general studies. They give the kind of information useful for anyone writing an essay on life saving or fire-fighting. The selective examples used are reaso n ab ly good.
The chapter particularly relevant to first aid is the one on resuscitation. This is good in parts, but one would criticise the illustrations of techniques. In the cardiac massage illustration on page 39 the pressure seems very high up o n the ster num In us ing the portable r es usci tato r with the un co nscious pat ient on his back surely the jaw must b e supported to avoid pressing th e tongue back.
The book on fire-fighting seemed mor e interesting and informative than the one on life- sa ving . Perhap s th is wa s because one reads thi.s as a l ay man. It is , perhaps, difficult fo r a do cto r to assess fairly a book intended for non-medical readers
The illustrations are generally very good, a mix t ure of old prints, paintings, photographs a nd drawings. Some of th e hi storical illustrations are very good indeed.
Both books should , however, be a welcome addition to every sc hool library, and might serve as an introduction for further study in both subjects.
G. O. Hughe s
NUTRITION AND DIETETICS FOR NURSES (3rd Edition) by Mary E. Beck
E. & S. Livingstone , Edinburgh £ 1.25 (paperback)
This is a text book for students of dietetics and of nursing; however it would be a valu a ble book to hold in a St. John county headquar ters library a nd for use by ambulance and nursing members
SPECIAL TESTS AND THEIR MEANINGS (8th Edition) by D. M. D. Evans
Faber and Faber, London 7Sp (paperback)
This most useful book has been revised and brought up to date It will be invaluable not only to nurses employed hospital duties but to those working in the community. FBC
TO JAN ET A SON (1962) (Colour 47 mins.) Free
Distributed by : Central Film Library , Govt Bldg. Bromyard Ave. Acton, London W3.
Produced by : Farley Infant Food.
This fi lm po rtrays a young mother recalling her first pregnancy.
The panel considered this an excellent training film. It shows childbirth as a n atura l process and gives expectant mothers knowledge and confidence; it is on the long side but the relaxe d tempo may well be adva nt ageous to young mothers.
Audience: Of great interest to all divi sions.
FACES OF DEPRESSION (1959) (8 & W 28 mins.) Free
Distributed by: British Medical Association, Tavistock Square, London WC 1.
Produced by: Robert Anderson Associates.
After introducing the subject the auth or conducts a series of interviews of cases to illustrate his lecture , a depression and its differential diagnosis.
The pane l found this film to be beyond its scope and did not attempt appraisal.
Too technical for St. John audience.
DANGEROUS NOISE-PART 1 (1967)(Colour21 mins) Free
Distributed by: Central Office of Information, Govt. Bldg., Bromyard Ave, Acton, London W3.
Produced by: Stewart Hardy Films
This f ilm shows the dangers of excessive noise and the importance of ear protectors and other ant i-noise equipment.
The panel considered this an excellent training film. It is well-made, well balanced and pitched at the correct intellectual leveL
Audience: Of general interest to all first-aiders a n d of specific interest to occupational health personnel.
DANGEROUS NOISE - PART 2 (1967) (Colour 21 mins.)
Distributed by: Central Office of Information, Govt. Bldg., Bromyard Ave, Acton London W3.
Produced by: Stewart Hardy Films
T his film shows the dangers of excessive noise, the importance of safety measures and is addressed to industrial safety officers and medical officers.
The panel co n sidered this a well-produced film but felt it repetitive after Part 1.
Audience: Somewhat too technical for first-aiders but is excellent for industrial safety officers, etc.
LEARN ING TO LIVE (1964) (Colour 20 mins.)
Distributed by: B.M.A. and Rank Film Library, P.O. Box 70, Great West Road, Brentford, Middlesex
Produced by: London Foundation of Marriage Education
An exp lanation of the reproductive system and the process of conception. Intended as a c la ss supp lement to class instruction for young teenagers chiefly 11-14 years o ld.
The panel was impressed with this film. Factual , well-presented with cl ear diagrams, of good length and avoiding various pitfalls it illustrates reproduction in the socia l context with clarity. However, the fact that it was made 7 years ago is appare nt in settings and attitudes.
Audience: All teenagers. Of interest to Sf. John cadets.
REHABILITATION OF THE DOUBLE LEG AMPUTEE (1956) (Colour 13 mins.)
Distributed by: British Medical Association, Tavistock Square, London WCI.
Shows the stages of rehabilitation of a double leg amputee from
Headquarters consists of doctors, first ai der s a nd visual aid experts who offer their se rvices for th is important aspect of visual aids. It s intended to publi s h m9nthly rev iews of those 16mm fi ms recommended by the panel.
the beginning until he is fina lly show n running about a field kicking a footba lL
The panel considered that this silent film shows its age but none the less ca rries a message of inspiration for double amputees It is amazing how quickly thi s specific patient is 'on his feet agai n '.
Audience: Solely for dOUble-amputees and those connected with orthopaedic hospitals and rehabilitation services. Otherwise the film is obsolescent but should be retained in archives Of no specific interest to Sf. John.
THE DISTURBED SUBNORMAL CHI LD (1966) (Colour 16 mins.)
Distributed by: British Medical Association, Tavistock Square , London WCI.
Produced by: Mr. E. R. Squibb.
This production shows how films can be used as an aid to teaching in medicine. Extracts from a film showing the results of using certain drugs on three groups of mentally-subnormal children are combined with explanatory charts and commentary to show how the film helped the psychiatrists to study progress. Inasmuch as the panel found th i s film of interest only in respect of its subject matter, i.e. mentally retarded children and usage of drugs, it is apparen t that the film has failed in its purpose of illustrating the use of film to support clinical research.
Audience: T h is film is addressed to specialized medical discipline and has no application to the work of Sf. John.
WOR KI NG OVER WATE R (1970) (Colour 18 mins.)
Distributed by: Drayton Film Productions Ltd. 14 Abingdon Rd ., Kensington, W8.
Produced by : Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors. Some of the hazards of working over water and the importance of taking appropriate safety precautions. The film also covers equipment on the site, including first aid kits, buoyancy aids and the rescue boat, its crew and equipment, and draws attention to other hazards , such as weather tides and curren ts.
The panel considere d this an excellent safety film. Accurate, up- to -d ate a nd factual of appropriate length it brings home its safety precaution message. Accident prevention is by no means a subject easy to portray but this film has a great air of verisimili tud e.
Audience: Of great interest to all concerned with the Industrial Safety Area near water. Could be screened at first aid courses run by Docks and Harbour Authority, etc.
THE CHOICE IS YOURS (1966) (Colour 16 mins.) Free
Distributed by: Drayton Film Productions, 14 Abingdon Rd , Kensington W8
Sponsor: Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors. This film portrays some of the accidents caused in civil enginee ri ng through not taking care or taking unnecessary risks which are shown and the misery which is caused to friends and relatives when a man is killed.
The panel considered this an exce ll ent accident prevention film. Its story- lin e is stro ng , sound and dialogue are good and it succeeds admirab ly in delivering its safety message. The use of the Holger-N eil sen method of artificial respira bon in ca es of electric shock is not current first-aid teaching , however.
Audience: Of specific value to constuction workers but of all-round interest as a 'filler'.
The Lord MaY(l)r of Belfast, the Ri@ht Hon. Councillor J. Cairns, buys a flag from Lady MacDermott, SJA President Belfast Area, with Mrs. J. Cooper, Area Su peri nten dent, hel pi ng with the Sale. (Photo: Century Newspaper Ltd, Belfast)
A New Branch of the Association
For some time there has been a wish among members in Stirling and Stirlingshire to have a committee of St. John and an Association of their own. There are now enough members in the area for a strong committee to be formed and it is proposed that it would oversee a district that would include Denny where, as readers of this column will know there is an enthusiastic band of workers for the
Order and a number of cadets. Up to now Denny and Torphichen have been wo:rking together, but both parties are quite happy with an arrangement that would leave Torphichen 'on its own' under the paternal eye of the Edinburgh committee.
Torphichen
The member s at Torphichen itself, where £ 1 000 has already been collected with the help of those in Denny towards the costs of establishing a Childrens' Home , are full of s chemes for the future. Over the next few months they are planning to hold a wine and cheese party; floral displays; a
Christmas carol service; an exhibition in the preceptory of Torphichen; and a fashion parade and dinner dance at Hopetoun House.
Mountain Rescue
The SJ Mountain Rescue Team in Aberdeen , under its new chairman My. Roy Thomson, is in excellent shape. Twenty new recruits are undergoing training. On a recent visit our Chancellor and Priory-Secretary were interested to see piles upon piles of newspapers wrapped up and ready for sale: one of the methods used to raise funds.
At the Montgomeryshire County Review held recently at Welsh pool and taken by the Chief Commissioner for Wales Lt. Col. J. R. L. Traherne (above eft), the Welsh pool Division celebrated its 60th anniversary. Also Mrs. W. Davies-Jones, former Assistant Chief Superintendent for Wales, presented County Colours in memory of her late husband Dr. R. Dav es-Jones, who was a former Commissioner for Montgomeryshire (above). Also present at the review was the Mayor of Welshpool, Mrs. K. E. Silver, who is County Superintendent for Montgomeryshire, the Lord Lieutenant, and the Commissioner Mr. C. V. Davies (Left) By kind permission of Lady Dunsany Manorbier Castle was open to the publ ic for a day recen tl y, the proceed s going to St. John. At some of the stalls in the castle grou nds are (L to R) Miss C. G. Thomas, Divisional Superintendent, Mrs. Bates, Mrs. Workman, Lad y Dunsany, Mrs. Bowling, County Superintendent, Mrs. Walter Simon, and Mrs. S. E. Francis, County Cadet Officer
The following a rticle is an e x cerpt from an ad c ress delivered by Brigadier·General C J. Laurin, Dire c tor of Association, St. John Ambulance, Canada (photo right) to the Industrial Accident Prevention Asso c iation of Ontario. His commentts concerning Project FACTS in o rillia Ontario, should give food for thought to similar c entres. CQuid this experiment be applied in your community?
FIRST AID COMMUNITY TRAINING FOR SAFETY: As you know too we ll , th e c o st to industry a nd to the community i s not confined to acc ident s that happen on the job. Lei sure tim e accident s and accidents in a worker's family are al so very costly in mon ey a well as suffering. Therefore , it could be very important to find out, under as clos e a pos sible to controlled c onditions, what reduction in the cost a nd incidence of acciden ts could be obtained by training a whol e community in safety-oriented first aid. And training in uch a way that the attitudes develop ed stay with the pupil both on and off the job.
Because of th e high volunt e er cont ent of St. John, we wer e abl e to draw up a 3-y e ar training and r e earch budge t that was very small indeed for what it plann e d to a c hieve. But even this could not be underwritten by St. John. Our funds stem from welfare sources and obviously could not be used for what was , in fact, industrial research.
So we took all oLlr findings to those most concerned with th e reduction of both the incidence and cost of ac c idents the Workmans Compensation Board of Ontario and Industrial Accident Prevention Associationand asked for the ne c essary support if a suitable c ommunity co uld be found. We were wholehearted ly given that support. A community Orillia, On tario , was chosen and Proj ect FACTS - First Aid Community Training for Safety - came into being. The criteria establ ished for th e selection of the community will be of interest to you. We wanted one of medium size, close enough to Toronto for our programme to be generally supervised from St. John Provincial Headquarter s, but far enough away to avoid a commutiing and ohanging labou r force. We wanted a community with a cross section of business and industry - without domination by anyone f irm, business or industry. Finally, Olle where there were widespr e ad and variolls recreational activities, summer and winter.
Orillia not only met these condition , but
when the plan was discussed, a basic enthusiasm was apparent from the very beginning.
Rep re se n ta ve s of labour industry, Chamber of Commerce, public utilities, fire, police, the Mayor and Council, hospital administrators and many others were interested and prepared to give practical support. Press, radio and the TV station which covers the area were all behind the plan and in February 1970, it got undenvay.
Forty to fifty instmctors had to be trained, arrangements made for training accommodation both in and out of plant s a nd public place s, plans for record keeping set up proper programmes of classes, etc, laid out and publicised. AU this was done.
In the first year 301 people were trained and qualified as industrial fust-aid attendants to meet Workmans Compensation Board regulations, and 1,741 took the emergency course. Another 3,500 will be trained this year, and stil l another 2,500 to 3,000 next year. By then, all business and industry should fully meet all Workmans Compensation Board requirements for first-aid attendants and there should be at least one person in every household w ith a knowledge of fust aid
All instructors are taught to bring in the need for safety consciollsness wherever it is appropriate in lectures, demonstrations and discussions.
They also point out tha t about half of all accidental deaths result from traffic acciden ts, 20 % from accidents in the home, and 10% from drowning. They bring ou t s impl e precautions which would help reduce these figures.
With all this activity going on in Orillia, you may well ask how we are going to know if it's worth while; if we will learn any important lessons from it; ami whether these activities can be extended across the country to business, industries, and other communities?
There are two research programmes moving hand-in-hand on these problems.
Hickling-Johnson Industrial Consu lt ants are covering the who e statistical study of before,
during and after training conditions for Workmans Compensation Board. York University is st u dying the effect on the attitudes and safety consciousness of the population in general for St. John. Both are being done in such a way as to provide information which will help materially in the planning of future projects.
In addition, and very important, the Industrial Accident Prevention Association has established a Bursary at York University to be used where needed to further this research. The ultimate findings of the project wil reflect all these research approaches to the problem.
Obviously it is still too ear ly to obtain any definite findings, and trends can change overnight. But I can tell you that research to date indicates a much higher safety consciousness and a drop of 15 % to 20% in compensation cases
If this trend co ntinu es, and of course we fully believe it will, Orillia will certainly be able to claim that it is the safest place in Canada to live , work and play.
REVI EW CROSSWORD No. 12 (71) Compiled by w.. A. Potter
ACROSS
1. Essential organs last dissgcted af er six. (6). 4. Aided son muti13ted for lymphoid tissue or nasopharynx. un. 9. Modified form of 25 Across going round or St. Vitus dance. (6) ] O. and 13. Passage for spermatic c;:ord or round hgament of uterus through the abdominal muscles. (8.5) 12. The terrible Czar might be vain. (4). 13. See 10 Across 14. Produce concussion by turning nuts (4) 17. Lower, lateral regions of the abdomen (5). 18. It appears in nice arranggment to urge violent action to be taken (6) 21. sac;: right for treasurer. (6). 22. Order of merit to little brother for improvisation of splint. (5). 25. Pain in ea(\;h ear. (4).26. Take tea outside in fungus infection of skin. (5). 27. Volcano in Vietnam. (4). 30 Not a complaint the sufferer can sleep off. (8). 31. Hot tar spilt in the pharynx. (6). 32. Unplanned event for which the first aider is prepared. (8). 33. Mean in nurse. (6).
DOWN
l. Disease deliberately induced to protect against smallpox. (8). 2 V8rtebrae ch a racterised by their long, downward-dire c ted spimlUs processes (8). 3. Line broken in the spleen. (4).5. A red lancet is used for decayed teeth. (6.6). 6. We object to no commonsense. (4). 7. The so r t of characteris ti c one does not acquire. (6). Solution for irrigation of wounds is lost in sale (6). 11. Reflex dorsiflexion of great toe indicating lesion of central nervous system (8.4) 15. Little science problem to prepare oneself for sterile procedure. (5). 16. Deceptively small wounds often involving underlying organs. (5) 19 Needing chiropody after a long walk? (8). 20. Little devil played a part in producing variety of fracture. (8). 23. Secretion of p a rotid, submaxillary and sublingual glands (6). 24. Old-fashioned medicine. (6). 28. Curious ma]d in amongst. (4). 29. Formed by the body of the mandible. (4)
SOLUTION TO CROSSWORD No. 11 (71) ACROSS
1. Carbon dioxide; 9. Opening; 10. Bran-tub; 13. Look ; 14. Sted; 15. Rer.o; 18. Freud; 19. A.b.o.1i.shed; 21. Emollien t; 23. H.itch; 25. Iris(h); 26. C.left; 28. Sour; 31. Gastric; 33. Upright ; 34 Rec;:oil of chest.
DOWN
2. Acetone ; 3. Boil ; 4. Nightmare; 5. Imbue ; 6. X-fay; 7. Emu; 8. No ill feeling; 1l. Teeth; 12 Bloodthirsty; 16. Adult; 17. Sight; 20. Out of puff; 22. O.m.its; 24. Troughs; 27. Local ; 29. Trio; 30. Arch; 32. Air.
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