Gisborne Hospital

Poverty Bay Standard, Volume IX, Issue 948, 1 June 1881, Page 3

Gisborne Hospital

Amongst the institutions of a like kind in the colony, the Gisborne Hospital forms a conspicuous feature. There are few, if any, better managed, or more satisfactorily conducted. And, for the size of the place, and the circumstances under which it has grown to its present dimensions, it is one of the few things in Poverty Bay of which the settlers may be proud. Recently we were invited to pay a visit to the building, which we did, accompanied by Captain Chrisp, who has always evinced a large practical interest in the institution. Under his supervision the magnificent piece of ground —about four acres on the Taruheru River, set aside as a Hospital Reserve—lias been laid out, and will be planted with trees expected shortly from the Acclimatization Society ; and which, when completed, will form a most agreeable and healthy retreat for convalescent invalids. For economy’s sake, the lower portion of the ground has been let for two years, in consideration of the lessee doing what is presently necessary, without making further calls on the hospital funds. On inspecting the internal arrangements of the building, one cannot suppress expressions of surprise, coupled with satisfaction. Everything in all the rooms and wards give but little indication of the true character of the building. The thought of “ going to the hospital,” in case of sickness, is more often accompanied by a shudder of objection, than the realisation of pleasant reflections ; while to such an extent does the intuitive aversion

operate on a patient’s mind, that, until actual experience has proved the reverse, it is more likely to retard, than promote the recovery to health. In the Gisborne Hospital there is an entire absence of that chilly atmosphere of discomfort, with which the memories of most others are associated. Indeed, so clean, cheery, and cosy does everything appear —so perfect are the arrangements to secure the comforts of one’s own house, that one may be deceived at first as to the real nature of the institution he is in. The dormitories are spacious, and not too numerously bedded. They are loftily built, and afford plenty of ventilation both from within and without. At the time of our visit, cheerful fires glowed on the hearths, and there was an air of comfort in the surroundings which testified to unremitting attention on the part of the authorities. The lavatories, inner and out offices, and other domicilliary and sanitary arrangements were made with a view to the promotion of health and cleanliness.

There are no female patients in the Ward, just now ; and but six males, all of whom, we believe, pay for attendance. A Visitors’ Book is kept, which we were invited to inspect; and it afforded us pleasure to witness the large number whose signatures are appended to their expressions of satisfaction.

We have heard many complaints, lately, from patients as to the existence of certain grievances in the hospital, but the absence of comfort and cleanliness are certainly not amongst them ; and we cannot but think that the institution must be well managed to be the source of admiration that it is.