The original caption may contain language which is historic and which may no longer be considered appropriate. It has been retained in the record in the interest of historical accuracy.
The caption on the reverse of the photograph reads: “From student to probationer. West London Hospital’s interesting innovation to increase supply of nurses. (See attached story) Photo shows:- Students in the Diet Kitchen receive instruction in food values and the preparation of diets.”
The West London Hospital established a training scheme for girls aged 17, a year before they were able to begin training as probationers, in an attempt to prevent a future shortage in the nursing profession. It was thought that, by lowering the minimum age at which to enter the profession, girls leaving school would begin the training scheme before starting a career as a nurse. Previously, girls often sought employment upon leaving school and, when they reached an age at which training for the nursing profession was open to them, did not feel motivated to change career. In the Diet Kitchen, dieticians provide diets prescribed for patients, calculated to contain specific quantities of nutrients. In addition to ensuring meals are accurately prepared to provide patients with the appropriate nutrition, dieticians must make meals appetising and that they may also be prepared at home by a patient following discharge. See also MED01/01/0128 and MED01/01/0130-0138, and MED01/02/0002. High-resolution copies of this image are available for free for non-commercial use. Please Enquire to place an order.
This is part of the Series: MED01/01 Series of prints; within the Collection: MED01 Topical Press Agency Medical Collection
Source: Historic England Archive
Photographer: Topical Press Agency Limited
Photographer: Harrison, Norman Kingsley
Hospital, Kitchen, Education, Women's History, Food And Drink, Health And Welfare
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