Annual Report 1939

ANNUAL REPORT 1939

BENEDICTINE MISSION HOSPITAL REGISTERED NURSING AND MATERNITY HOME NONGOMA ZULULAND

ST. FRANCIS’ HOSPITAL MAHLABATINI, ZULULAND

MBONGOLWANE MISSION HOSPITAL REGISTERED NURSING AND MATERNITY HOME

ST. BENEDICTS’ HOSPITAL NKANDLA, ZULULAND ANNUAL REPORT 1939

BENEDICTINE MISSION HOSPITAL REGISTERED NURSING AND MATERNITY HOME NONGOMA ZULULAND

ST. FRANCIS’ HOSPITAL MAHLABAT1NI, ZULULAND

MBONGOLWANE MISSION HOSPITAL REGISTERED NURSING AND MATERNITY HOME

ST. BENEDICTS’ HOSPITAL NKANDLA, ZULULAND FOREWORD

With gratitude in my heart towards God for blessings received during the year 1939 I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Government of the Union and the Province of Natal, our benefactors all over the Union and overseas for all assistance given in so generous a manner. As the contents of this report indicate, progress during the past year has been considerable. Unfortunately, our pleasure at this progress is rather marred by our financial plight. It is with confidence, however, that we hope this year will bring us welcome relief by pecuniary assistance and donations. Furthermore we are pleased to find that the Native is gradually losing what appeared to be an instinctive dislike of hospitals, so that we are in a better position to render aid. It has been and always will be our endeavour to care for the sufferers, irrespective of race and creed. In conclusion I would like to express my personal desire that the staffs of the four hospitals will always attend to their duties, the more so when these are unpleasant and difficult. I trust the Native probationers will concentrate entirely on their work so that their training may be as thorough as possible. This will stand them in good stead when labouring amongst their own people. Benedictine Mission Inkamana, P. O. Vryheid. 2nd February, 1940. * THOMAS SPREITER Bishop. Staffs of the Fo ur Hospitals BENEDICTINE MISSION HOSPITAL, NONGOMA, ZULULAND

Resident Medical Officer: Dr. A. Ruben Visiting Surgeon: Dr. F. Kevekordes Matron : (General Hospital) Sr. Fitz Gerald Sister-in-charge (Maternity) Sr. R. May Three Sisters and 7 probationers ST. FRANCIS’ HOSPITAL, MAHLABATINI, ZULULAND

Resident Medical Officer: Dr. F. Kevekordes Sister-in-charge: Sr. F. Frey Nurse : Miss Susanna Mbuli MBONGOLWANE MISSION HOSPITAL, ZULULAND

Medical Officer: Dr. E. Holland Sister-in-charge: Sr. K. Winter 3 Probationers ST. BENEDICT’S HOSPITAL, NKANDLA, ZULULAND

Medical Officer: Dr. G. Abel Sister-in-charge: Sr. Hammond 2 Probationers Secretary for all hospitals: Alan Geiger, P. O. Eshowe NUMBER OF BEDS

European Non-European Benedictine Mission Hospital, Nongoma 14 65 St. Francis’ Hospital, Mahlabatini 2 24 Mbongolwane Mission Hospital 2 22 St. Benedict’s Hospital Nkandla 1 14 Total 19 125 Benedictine Mission Hospital, Nongoma MEDICAL OFFICER’S REPORT 1939 In the newly founded Benedictine mitted and were healed, chiefly due to Mission Hospital, Nongoma medical work the fine work of the first secular matron, was commenced on the 1st of June 1938. Mrs. E. Warwick, who did her utmost When work was first started, the building under very adverse conditions. Even under was still incomplete and only a few rooms such primitive conditions, a difficult trepan- were available for use. ing of a skull of a Native girl was under At the beginning the only rooms in use taken, with complete success. This is were the dispensary, the waiting and con merely an example of the sort of work sulting room, the Ante-natal examination which had to be done at a moment’s

Benedictine Mission Hospital, Nongoma room, one labour room and few rooms notice. Other difficult cases were a for women in the lying-in period. The number of severe stab wounds on some doctor was working under difficulties as gynaecological cases. he was not resident at the hospital for It was with great pleasure that the seven months after commencing. Another staff and patients were transferred to the difficulty was that two beds for Europeans new hospital in January 1939. During the and Coloureds and twelve beds for year 1939 the main building and one large Natives were stationed about half a mile wing as well as a new up-to-date operating from the new hospital. Hence the doctor theatre with all modern conveniences was had to pay regular visits there and make completed. even more frequent excursions when Another convenience is a laboratory serious cases were admitted. Operations where all the most important chemical had to be done under primitive conditions, and microscopical tests are undertaken. as even the operating table had to be In the laboratory specimens of all varieties transferred from one building to the other. were examined. These cases included A number of serious cases were ad bacteriological, chemical, histological and serological tests of blood, urine, stools, sputum, exsudates, etc. Since the be ginning there has been one Resident Medical Officer and from June till November a Resident Surgeon was present. During this period 2 Caesarean sections and 2 abdominal operations were performed as well as many other operations. Besides the registered nurses the staff consisted of seven probationers. The greater part of probationers had regular lectures. All the necessary equipment is available. This includes a skeleton, dummy, pelvis, charts and all necessary books. On referring to the attached return of Verandah, Nongoma Hospital Diseases of In-patients it will be seen that the hospital is an ideal centre for pupil in the way of taking preventitive measures, nurses, and the number of confinements believing that a bottle of medicine will affords ideal training for pupil midwives. put him right again. The amount of work done in the In conclusion I can assure all patients hospital is shown by the return of that they will be treated to the best of patients. my ability. My efforts have been success The cases treated as out-patients cover ful to a certain degree and this gives me the whole field of medicine. Many of hope that a number of existing prejudices out-patients should rather have been ad are being overcome. Should this be so, mitted for hospital treatment than permitted the work of the doctor will be made to return home. Most of the Natives easier in helping the sick. come for treatment only when the case has become serious. The Native does nothing Nongoma, 16th January, 1940. A. Ruben. ANNUAL REPORT 1939 The year 1939 has been one of joy which allowed for no distinction of race and worry; joy because the hospital has and creed. We thank him for his splendid experienced remarkable progress all-round; service. We also owe a debt of gratitude worry because the debts have increased. to Mrs. Ruben, our laboratory assistant, Compared with the year 1938, the who did fine work in her department. number of in-patients has increased A vote of thanks is also due to the appreciable, from 179 to 470. The number two matrons, Mrs. E. Warwick and Miss of maternity cases has risen from 69 to Davies, as well as to the remainder of 150. As the returns show, the out-patients of the staff of the General hospital. Department has also experienced an in Special thanks are merited by Sr. R. May crease in the number of patients. During of the Maternity Hospital for her meritorious the past year 3787 medicines have been endeavours. The progress of this depart sold. ment is due entirely to her unceasing Besides the Almighty, the credit for these efforts and the growing confidence of the outstanding achievements is due to the Native women. Many women can testify strenuous efforts of the Medical Superin to the fact that mothers, who have had tendent Dr. A. Ruben and to the in- two or more still-births at their home, defatigueable work of the remainder of have left this hospital with a healthy child. the staff. No doubt the patients are in a In spite of the fact that the hospital position to value his conscientiousness, suffered a severe setback through the death of a great Zulu Chief in the hospital, The architect, Rev. Br. C. Meyer and nevertheless the average number of in his two assistants, Rev. Br. J. Reid and patients increased steadily. From the Rev. Br. T. Kramer, under whose guidance time of planting to the end of the harvest the hospital was erected, are deserving ing season the Zulus have no time to of a special vote of thanks. come to the hospital for treatment. Even We were fortunate in securing an abnormal maternity cases have been electric lighting plant for the hospital. A known to stay away to a large extent. driving motor and wire are still lacking. Thus only the most serious general and Our financial position is very unsatisfactory maternity cases come to the hospital and so we are not in a position to erect during the summer months. and install the plant. Neither could we The wards and the operating theatre use the two washing machines as no are fully equipped except for a few minor electric current is available. We hope to details. The two separate labour rooms find a benefactor who will undertake the for Europeans and Non-Europeans are also installation of the plant. completely furnished and equipped. The As a direct result of our position we are compelled to restrict drastically all purchases during the ensuing year to liquidate our debts as soon as possible. We shall be enabled to do so only if we receive substantial • grants-in-aid and donations. What we received in this direction is shown by the financial statement. Building costs have not been included in this statement. The largest contri bution towards the erection of the building came from His Lordship Bishop Thomas Spreiter. We thank him from the bottom of our hearts. We are grate ful to all the mission staffs who have MISSION-LORRY made sacrifices in favour of the hospital Left: Rev. Bro. C. Keller. Right: Rev. Bro. A. Hee. The writer of this report knows only too well what sacrifices were de second operating theatre and the sterilizing manded from the Bishop, Fathers, Brothers room could not be completed owing to and Sisters in Zululand, who had to cut lack of funds. The two separate kitchens not only the expenses of their own mission for Europeans and Non-Europeans are stations but had even to make personal being used. The new AQA Heather is sacrifices. working satisfactorily. The main building and one wing are completed and are The return of patients will prove a being occupied. Our financial position spice of satisfaction, showing that the prevents us from adding the two originally population is gaining confidence in our planned wings. hospital. Further it is an undeniable An ample water supply is obtained from proof that the hospital is not too extensive two springs on the Nongoma hill, about for the area, but the upkeep is nevertheless 15’ higher than the roof of the hospital. beyond our limited means. The water is stored in a large concrete We are thus extremely grateful for all tank, from where the water passes assistance rendered towards the costs of through a filter and flows automatically erection of the hospital. We wish to through pipes over a mile long into 4 re thank especially the Department of Native servoir tanks in the roof of the hospital. Affairs for the building grant of £1,300 From there the various rooms are supplied. and the Provincial Administration for its The installation was expensive but now grant of £250. At this point we desire requires no further outlay. to thank also our benefactors all over the Union for the donations towards the build have donated goods we render our thanks. ing fund totalling £1,047:7:9. I refer to the list of gifts in kind. Again we would like to express our We hope that in spite of numerous gratitude for the grants-in-aid received calls the Benedictine Mission Hospital will from the Provincial Administration of not be forgotten during the year 1940. Natal and the Department of Native Affairs. The Native Recruiting Corporation Eshowe, 1st February, 1940. is to be thanked for a donation of £50. Alan Geiger To all our benefactors and firms who Secretary.

RETURN OF PATIENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DEC. 1938 Patients European Non-European Male | Female Male | Female Patients in Hospital at beginning of year 0 0 0 0 Admissions during year 2 2 72 103 Total 2 2 72 103 Discharges during year 2 2 62 88 Died during year 0 0 2 4 Remaining at the end of the year 0 0 8 11 Total 2 2 72 103

RETURN OF PATIENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DEC 1939 Patients European Non-European Male | Female Male Female Patients in Hospital at beginning of year 0 0 8 11 Admissions during year 30 29 132 279 Total 30 29 140 290 Discharge during year 24 26 126 280 Died during year 1 1 8 6 Remaining at the end of year 5 2 6 4 Total 30 29 140 290

AVERAGE NUMBER OF PATIENTS

Average from 1st July 1938 to 31st Dec. 1938 10.0 Average from 1st Jan. 1939 to 30th June 1939 20.0 Average from 1st July 1939 to 31st Dec. 1939 34.5 MATERNITY CASES 1938 1939 European Non-European European Non-European Confinements 5 64 2 148 Twins 4 4 Died 2 1 Still-born 3 2 Caesarean sections 0 2 ANTE-NATAL EXAMINATIONS during 1938: 200 during 1939: 432 OUT-PATIENTS 1938 1939 European | Non-European | European | Non- European 44 | 991 1 159 | 1169 RETURN OF DISEASES OF IN-PATIENTS

Diseases Year Diseases Year

1938 1939 1938 1939 1. Infectious and Parasitic Diseases 5. Diseases of the Digestive System Typhoid 17 Tonsillitis 3 8 Whooping Cough 1 4 Stomatitis 3 2 Influenza 5 15 Appendicitis 3 Dysentery 3 10 Gastroenteritis 3 8 Meningitis (Cerebro-spinal Liver 4 Meningitis) 3 Bilharzia 1 1 Tuberculosis 3 32 Syphilis 1 43 Tetanus 1 6. Diseases of Skin Malaria 10 22 Eczema 7 Dengue 2 Psoriasis 1 German Measles 1 1 Keloid 1 2. Nervous System and Sense Organs 7. Injuries and surgical cases 15 42 Epilepsy 1 Cerebral Haemorrhage 1 Neuralgia 2 8. Diseases of Genito-Urinary System Eye 4 Abortus 3 2 Ear 4 4 Uraemia 1 1 Cystitis 4 Diseases of the Circulatory System Nephritis 2 2 Heart 2 6 Angina Pectoris 2 2 9. Infants Diseases 3 4 Diseases of the Respiratory System 10. Rheumatism 6 Pneumonia 6 16 Asthma 2 8 11. Other various diseases Pleurisy 2 2 Empyema 2 Poisoning Bronchitis 5 15 Snake-bite GIFTS IN KIND Messrs. Allen & Hanburys, Durban. 1 sterilizing cabinet and drugs and dressings. C. Argo, Durban. 2 baby baths Messrs. Bayer Pharma Ltd., Johannesburg. drugs Messrs Blaikie & Co. floorings Messrs. Buffalo Paints, Ltd., Durban. 2 Gallon Enamel paint Messrs. S. Butcher & Sons, Durban. 1 case Crockery Messrs. W. W. Jagger & Co., Ltd., Durban. 1 piece Towelling Messrs. Kahn & Kahn, Durban. beans Messrs. W. D. Kyle, Ltd., Durban. 10 yds. hospital sheeting Messrs. Lennon, Ltd., Durban. drugs Messrs. Peter & Co., Durban. fruits Messrs. Tlieo. Schloss & Co., Durban. 1 case paraffin and 1 case candles Messrs. Westdene Products, Ltd., Bloemfontein. drugs Abbey Mtinsterschwarzach 1 operating table 1. B. W. America instruments Cath. Medical Mission Board, New-York. hospital equipment M. Q. Aachen. hospital equipment Q. L., London. hospital equipment Rev. Fr. P. Pfaffel, Newton, New Jersey. books St. Ottilien. Vestments M. 1. Wurzburg, per Dr. Kevekodes. Monstrance and ciborium. STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1939 £ s d £ s d To FEES: £ s. d. 1317 16 11 By Balance, 1st Jan. 1939 1901 5 0 In-patients 625 18 7 ll Salaries 1057 17 6 Out-patients 443 18 4 Medical Officers Maternity ward 248 0 0 £ 726 11 0 To GRANTS: 418 0 0 Staff £ 331 16 6 Provincial 11 Drugs and Medicines 121 14 4 Administration 225 0 0 11 Provisions and Stores 467 11 3 Native Affairs 11 Equipment 624 6 0 Department 190 0 0 li Instruments 288 9 0 P. H. D. ll Light 24 3 6 District Nurse 3 0 0 11 Sundries 2019 0 To DONATIONS: 55 15 6 ll Telephone 3 13 11 Native Recruit V) Travelling Expenses 40 7 5 Corporation 50 0 0 11 Stationery 8 19 0 Various 5 15 6 n Uniforms 1 18 0 To Bank overdraft 78 6 2 11 Training School 3 8 0 To Balance carried forward 2774 13 4 11 Cash in hand 80 0 0 £4644 11 11 £4644 11 11 Eshowe, 16th January, 1940. Certified Correct: Alan Geiger Secretary. / have examined the records and vouchers of the Benedictine Mission Hospital, Nongoma and certify that the forego’ng Statement correctly summarises the cash transactions of the Institution duriny the year ended 31st December 1939, according to the records and to the best of my information. Eshowe, 26th January, 1940. Theodos Schall, O.S.B. Member of the Hospital Board. St. Francis’ Hospital Mahlabatini MEDICAL OFFICER’S REPORT 1939 The Mission Hospital commenced its The native “medicine man” is steadily work at Mahlabatini to meet a real need giving way to the obvious benefit of for hospital facilities in a well populated modern medical treatment but an enormous but isolated area. The buildings were amount of work remains yet to be done but completed at the outbreak of the to overcome the ignorance and superstition 1932 epidemic at a time when the need which are so deeply rooted in the native of the convenience of a nearby hospital mind. The satisfactory indication of the was most acutely felt by the surrounding expansion of the hospital activities reflects native population. that slowly but surely the Natives’ con The Provincial Administration generously fidence is being won. Small hospitals offered the use of 10 acres of land to such as St. Francis’ perform a very vital the Benedictine Mission and have con function and work is carried out under tinued together with the Native Affairs much more difficult conditions than in Department and the Department of Public the larger and better equipped institutions Health to render welcome and well nigh in big centres where every modern facility indispensable financial assistance. The is readily accessible. The' amount of present improved conditions at the hospital clinical work done [in combating Tb., V.D. are the outcome of whole-hearted co etc. at the small hospitals will render in operation between the Mission and the estimable service to the population both Government and it can confidently be European and Native, in the district. stated that the existence of these facilities has proved a boon to the very primitive Mahlabatini, 31/1/40 F. Kevekordes. population in this district. ANNUAL REPORT 1939 Very little external progress in the St. training was carried on in St. Mary’s Francis’ Hospital is on record, though Hospital, Mariannhill, where Susanna much work has be done. Firstly official Mbuli obtained her certificate from the recognition and a special vote of thanks S. A. Medical Council. are due to the District Surgeon, Dr. F. For the first time in the history of the Kevekordes, the Medical Officer in charge Hospital we are able to record a positive for the thorough manner in which he has financial statement after all debts were done his work for the hospital. The paid. If we can show a surplus of progress that we were able to make goes £261:14:10 this year, then we can do so entirely to his credit. only because we cut down expenditure At the same time we express our thanks as much as possible. During 1940 we to Rev. Sr. E. Mayer, who has in the have, however, to make a number of meantime been transferred to Nongoma. purchases. Thus, we have to buy blankets, For more than 2 years Sr. E. Mayer has sheetings, cots for children, instruments, given the best of her services in the etc. As soon as we have the necessary cause of the hospital. money together, a start will be made in Her successor, Rev. Sr. Fromunda Frey the erection of one or two necessary is also deserving of praise for the manner rondavels. in which she is carrying on her duties. The number of in-patients has during The Native Nurse Susanna Mbuli has the past year again shown an increase. always been a good help to the Sisters The return of diseases explains sufficiently in their difficult task. Her thorough the kinds of diseases treated. St. Francis’ Hospital, Mahlabatini

The number of confinements is still Native Affairs and the Provincial Ad small. It is nevertheless worth noting ministration of Natal for the grants-in-aid. that there were only 6 confinements These grants are always a welcome during 1938, whereas last year there were assistance in keeping the hospital going. 19. These are usually abnormal cases Finally we wish to thank our friends that require the service of a doctor. overseas, especially in America, England Otherwise the Natives go especially to and Switzerland for the gifts in kind that the nearby Nkonjeni Hospital, which has were sent to us. a good reputation as a Maternity hospital. This report would not be complete Eshowe, 1st February, 1940. were we not to make use of this op Alan Geiger portunity to thank the Department of Secretary.

RETURN OF PATIENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER, 1939. Patients European Non-European • Male Female Male Famele Patients in Hospital at beginning of year 6 8 Admissions during year 6 6 76 123 Total 6 6 82 131 Discharges during year 5 6 70 126 Died during year 5 3 Remaining at the end of the year 1 6 7 2 Total 6 6 82 131 DAILY AVERAGE NUMBER OF PATIENTS.

January 14.— July 13.— February 12.80 August 17,40 March 13.50 September 10.50 April 17.80 October 1850 May 15 — November 18.25 June 10.— December 10.20 During the year 1939 Average Number in per diem 14.2 19 Confinements during the year euded 31st Dec. 1939

RETURN OF DISEASES OF IN-PATIENTS. YEAR ENDED 31st. DEC. 1939 1. Infectious and Parasitic Diseases: 6. Diseases of the Digestive System: Whooping Cough 2 Tonsillitis 2 Diphtheria 1 Bilharzia 1 Influenza 18 Inflammation of liver • 1 Amoebic Dysentery 4 Intestinal parasites 4 Cerebro-spinal Meningitis 2 Tuberculosis 17 7. Diseases of the Genito-Urinary System: Syphilis 75 Malaria 2 Cystitis 2 Uraemia 1 2. Tumour: Nephritis 1 Female Genital organs 1 Hydronephrosis 1 3. Diseases of the Nervous System and Perimetritis 2 Sense Organs: 8. Diseases of the skin and Cellular Tissue: Cerebral Haemorrhage 1 Neuralgia 1 Psoriasis 1 Eye 1 Ear 1 9. General Diseases: 4. Diseases of the Circulatory System: Acute Myocarditis 1 Osteomyelitis 1 Chronic Endocarditis (Chronic) 1 Infants diseases : Malnutrition. 4 5. Diseases of the Respiratory System : Rheumatism 1 Pneumonia 6 Ascites 1 Asthma 2 Injuries and surgical cases 27 Pleurisy 3 Acute Bronchitis 5 Confinements 19 STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1939.

£ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. To FEES: 423 9 6 By Balance from 1st year 32 12 3 In Patients 115 4 6 SALARIES 122 11 10 P. H. D. 272 5 0 Medical officer GRANTS: 250 0 0 By £ 96 13 4 Native Affairs Staff £ 25 18 6 Department 156 0 0 By Drugs & MEDICINES 138 0 7 Provincial By Provisions and Stores 60 18 5 Administration ICO 0 0 By EQUIPMENT 10 16 6 By INSTRUMENTS 18 5 1 By LIGHT 2 3 0 By SUNDRIES 3 18 6 By Postage 8 6 By BUILDING EXPENSES 22 0 0 By BALANCE: 261 14 10 Cash in hand £ 34 18 3 Barclays Bank £ 67 6 6 Hospital Board £ 159 10 1 673 9 6 673 9 6 Eshowe, 16th January, 1940 Certified correct: Alan Geiger Secretary.

I have examined the records and vouchers of the St. Francis Hospital Mah/abatini, and certify that the foregoing Statement correctly summarises the cash transactions of the Institu tion during the year ended 31st December 1939, according to the records and to the best of my information.

Eshowe, 26th January, 1940 Theodos Schall O.S.B. Member of the Hospital Board. Mbongolwane Mission Hospital MEDICAL OFFICER’S REPORT, 1939 The results of the opening year’s work also cheap. A number of huts built in at the Mbongolwane Hospital show how concrete are attached to the main hospital. necessary it has been to establish a Patients come and reside there prior to hospital in this area. their confinements. This ensures that Situated as it is 25 miles from the supervision can be given and malpositions nearest Provincial hospital it is meeting diagnosed before labour begins. all the demands which can be made on it. No effort is made to perform major

Mbongolwane Mission Hospital Apart from the intern patients an ex operations or to treat cases needing tern department is flourishing. Much constant medical supervision. Such cases ante-natal and child welfare work is being are transferred to a bigger centre with done there. out delay. With this system the respon The Government clinic is attached sibility of thus running the hospital is not where free treatment for venereal diseases so great, and it ensures the best possible can be obtained. The average weekly results for patients. As a result the con attendance is 14. Since its establishment, fidence of Natives in the hospital is in a considerable drop in the incidents of creasing and a bigger number of ad congenital syphilis has been noted. As missions may be anticipated yearly. time goes on the good results will be more apparent. The service given by the hospital to Eshowe, January, 1940. E. Holland, expectant mothers is very rational and M.B., B.Ch., B.A.O. ANNUAL REPORT, 1939 “The Mbongolwane Mission Hospital is Thus runs the opinion of a medical one of the finest Native Hospitals that I man who has visited many hospitals in have seen in the Union of South Africa. the Union and who has shown great in There the chief object is the special care terest in the welfare of the Natives. of the patients.” The words of praise contained in the above opinion go to the credit of the Last but not not least we wish to ex architect, Rev. Bro. C. Mayer, of the tend our most cordial thanks to Dr. E. builder, Rev. Bro. D. Schmid and further Holland of Eshowe for his regular visits. of the Matron, Sr. K. Winter. The It has already become a by-word amongst Architect and the builder have erected the Native patients that Dr. Holland can something really excellent which can be negotiate the bad road from Pett Store referred to both as suited for the purpose to Mbongolwane when all other motor-car and ideal in lay-out. drivers can no longer come through. For The Matron, Sr. K. Winter is to be his work in and on behalf of the hospital congratulated for her care of the sick. we cannot render sufficient thanks. For Day and night she is at her post and last year Dr. Holland presented an account knows no fatigue in fulfilling her duty. It totalling only £36:16:0. We ^’eertainly happened quite frequently during 1939 know how to value his complaisance and that she was at work for 24 hours with are sure that our hospital and our out interruption, refusing all offers of patients are in good hands. assistance in order not to cause un At this point we desire to express our necessary expenditure for the hospital heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Holland for and to be able to pay its debts as soon treating the Mission staff free of charge. as possible. Similarly we thank the Department of Unfortunately many of the Matron’s the Native Affairs for the grant-in-aid wishes could not be fulfilled. Considering which has been and always will be a the fact that the matron had deliberated welcome assistance. a hundred times over each wish and Due to the assistance of the Public then passed it on only when she was Health Department it was made possible convinced of the extreme necessity of for us to support a district nurse. We are the fulfillment of the desire, then it be grateful on that account. comes doubly difficult to have to reject We are also grateful for the grant-in- the wish in view of our desperate financial aid given by the Provincial Administration plight. of Natal. In spite of this uneviable position we Bearing in mind that the hospital was are, however, compelled to purchase the opened only on the 17th June 1938 we following articles during 1940: 1 stove can be quite satisfied with the result for the labour room, 1 or 2 cots, a cabinet shown by the return of patients. Although to hold the medicines for the out-patient the Native in general is not desirous of department, blankets for patients, a few entering a hospital, yet the figures suffice instruments, etc. During the year 1939 no to prove that the hospital has been well equipment was bought for the hospital received. No doubt the hospital is situated as will be seen in our financial report. in such a district where it can be of

Mbongolwane Mission Hospital great use. We are further including a the matron are as yet not on their own list of the general cases treated. This footing but are doing their best. list demonstrates which diseases were Eshowe, 25th January, 1940. treated. Alan Geiger The 3 Native probationers assisting Secretary. RETURN OF DISEASES OF IN-PATIENTS 1. Infectious and Parasitic Diseases 5. Non-Venereal Diseases of the Genito Urinary System Measles 2 Dysentry 6 Nephrosis 1 Influenza 17 Pyelitis 1 Tuberculosis 8 Salpingitis 6 Mumps 5 Cystitis I Lupus 2 Metritis 6 Scrophulose 1 Whooping Cough 10 6. Tumor Gonorrhoea 7 Liver Abscess 3 Female Genital Organ 1 7. Diseases of the Skin and Cellular Tissue 2. Diseases of the Circulatory System Eczema • 5 Adenitis 2 Acute Endocarditis 2 Furunculosis 1 Acute Myocarditis 2 Abscess 4 8. Diseases of Pregnancy and Puerperal State 3. Diseases of the Respiratory System Abortion 1 Acute Bronchitis 20 Treatment after confinement 1 Pneumonia 16 Puerperal sepsis 4 Pleurisy 5 Puerperal Haemorrhage 1 Asthma 2 Disturbances of pregnancy 7 Miscarriage 2 4. Diseases of the Digestive System 9. Diseases of the Sense organs Diarrhoea 5 Eye Diseases Diarrhoea, under 2 years 6 Worms 9 10. General Diseases Inflamation of Liver 4 Rheumatism 2 Gastritis 1 Injuries 6 Enteritis 8 Rachitis 2 Appendicitis 2 Anaemia 5 Constipation 1 Lymphangitis RETURN OF PATIENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1939. Patients European Non-European Male Female Male Female Patients in hospital at the beginning of year 2 9 Admissions during year 1 2 75 242 Total 1 2 77 251 Discharges during year 1 2 67 239 Died during year 9 5 Remaining at the end of the year 1 7 Total 1 2 77 251 RETURN OF PATIENTS:— Continued Daily average number of patients Month Confinements 10.80 January 7 11.80 February 9 13.40 March 9 8.00 April 5 10.50 May 3 15.30 June 12 14.00 July 7 13.00 August 10 11.50 September 15 8.50 October 5 12.60 November 10 11.00 December 5 Average number in per diem 11.70 Total: 97 Confinements.

STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1939. £! s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. To FEES: 477 1 0 BALANCE from last year 98 0 1 Natives 433 6 0 BALANCE, building a/c 1189 11 8 P.H.D. 43 15 0 By SALARIES: 98 5 0 To GRANTS: 174 0 0 Medical officer Native Affairs £ 36 16 0 Department 135 0 0 Staff £ 61 9 0 Provincial By MEDICINES 77 3 8 Administration 15 0 0 By PROVISIONS AND STORES 199 1 6 P.H.D. By EQUIPMENT 0 0 0 District nurse 24 0 0 By TRAVELLING 7 0 0 To DONATION 50 0 0 By LIGHT 1 0 0 Native Recruif. By SUNDRIES 3 1 3 Corporation 50 0 0 By TELEPHONE 7 0 0 Balance carried forward 1006 5 8 By BALANCE 27 3 6 Cash in hand £ 9 9 0 Barclays Bank £ 17 14 6

1707. 6. 8. 1707. 6. 8. Eshowe, 16 January, 1940. Certified correct: Alan Geiger Secretary.

I have examined the records and vouchers of the Mbongolwane Mission Hospital, and certify that the foregoing Statement correctly summarises the cash transactions of the Institution during the year ended 31st December 1939, abcording to the records and to the best of my information. Eshowe, 26th January, 1940. Theodos Schall O.S.B. Member of the Hospital Board. St. Benedict’s Hospital, Nkandla MEDICAL OFFICERS REPORT, 1939 This Hospital was opened on 17th August the hospital. Minor surgical work has 1939 but building operations have been been done, and quite a number of in in progress till recently. Accomodation fectious patients, usefully isolated. The has heen made for 8 beds for midwifery new year should see an increase in the cases with an equal number for general maternity work of the Hospital as it becomes cases. It is somewhat early to write of better known under Sister L. Hammond the medical work of the Institution; how who is the Sister-in-Charge. ever already, several confinements have been attended and many infants, suffering G. Abel in the main from pneumonia, nursed in Medical Officer.

ANNUAL REPORT 1939 On the 7th February 1939 the Benedic not for the above fact we would not have tine Mission of Nkandla was occupied. been able to even entertain the idea of Through the efforts of the Priest-in-charge, such a venture for a considerable period Rev. Fr. G. Schempp the two neigh as there exist sufficiently heavy burdens bouring lots were obtained. On one in liabilities of the other institutions already of these lots there was already a existing. building that appeared to have been At present the hospital resembles a erected as a Hospital. The sale was premature baby demanding the greatest completed in July and during August we care and assistance. At present it can were already in a position to open a only cry for help. But the time will come hospital with limited scope. The house when it will grow and flourish. There was enlarged by the addition of five rooms are various indications of that fact. It while the old house underwent a complete has for many years been the wish of the renovation. At the end of the year build Nkandla District Surgeon to have a hospital ing operations were nearing completion. in Nkandla Village itself. Besides the During this building period but few district surgeon we have quite a number patients could be accommodated. Hence of friends amongst the Europeans, and there is but little to report and so I do many amongst the Natives, that welcomed not intend attaching a return of patients the advent of the hospital. and a return of diseases of in-patients. The furnishing and maintenance of the We have been fortunate enough in this hospital is an expensive undertaking. We undertaking in having a benefactor come look for assistance from the Department to our aid to purchase the ground and of Native Affairs and the Provincial building, but a stipulation made by this Administration and from hospital-minded benefactor is that we fully equip the people; we express our thanks in advance building at our own expense. Were it for contributions. A few of the Bayer Pharmaceutical Preparations used in our four hospitals: Adalin, Atebrin, Bayer’s Aspirin, Cafinal, Luminal, Mitigal, Prontosil, Uloron, Unden, Yatren etc.

THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE IN QUALITY /h r a

PRODUCT DURBAN.

FIRST FOR THIRST! n ------b~b ‘ALLENBURYS’ The Effective Cod Liver Oil Ointment Lime Juice Cordial Literature and Samples obtainable Made from West Indian Limes. from

A pure and wholesome beverage Transatlantic Trading Co. (Pty), Ltd. for all ages on all occasions. P.O. Box. 6911. Johannesburg.

SOLD BY CHEMISTS & GROCERS.

T e l . A d d r e s s : “ P e t e r c o .' P.O. Box 1980

7 8 C o m m e r c i a l R o a d . P.K. Bus 1980 PRODUCE WE SPECIALIZE IN THE REQUIREMENTS OF ALL INSTITUTIONS STOCKS ARE CLEAN AND SOUND PETER & CO. PRICES KEEN, AND DELIVERIES PROMPT MAY WE QUOTE YOU FOR BEANS, MAIZE, MEAL, RICE, POTATOES, (ESTABLISHED BLOEMFONTEIN 1905) ONIONS ETC? COMMISSION AGENTS AND BROKERS ENQUIRIES WELCOMED MARK AGENTE EN VRUGTE KAHN & KAHN HANGELAARS 87 QUEEN STREET DURBAN CONTRACTORS & SUPPLIERS. ESTABLISHED 1889. TIMBER a n d BUILDING MATERIALS Central News Agency FOR EVERY PURPOSE Ltd. W. F. JOHNSTONE WHOLESALE STATIONERS AND & CO., LIMITED SCHOOL SUPPLIERS MAYDON WHARF P.O. BOX 138 TELEPHONE 22311 DURBAN LET US ASSIST YOU, By askingfor Particulars of Prices SPECIALISTS IN JOINERY and

SOLE MANUFACTURERS AND SAMPLES TectonDISTRIBUTORS Teak Windows OF OUR MOTTO “GOODWILL AND CONFIDENCE” Distributors of— CELOTEX INSULATING BOARDS 369 SMITH STREET, P.O. BOX 938 BUFFALO BRAND PAINTS CERTAINTEED ROOF MATERIALS DURBAN. PHONE 23936 DOUGHERTY & STEAD (PTY) LIMITED SHIPPING AND FORWARDING AGENTS WAREHOUSEMEN

P.O. BOX 4. CARTAGE CONTRACTORS POINT DURBAN. Insist on Using— ‘PRETORIA’ PORTLAND CEMENT EVERY BAG GUARANTEED P.O. BOX 3811 JOHANNESBURG TEL. ‘CEMENT’

Mission Press, Mariannhill.

Collection Number: AD1715

SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTE OF RACE RELATIONS (SAIRR), 1892-1974

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