VPRS 19275 Lady Superintendent's Reports

This series comprises reports written by the Lady Superintendent of the Royal Melbourne Hospital. Prior to 1890, the title of Matron referred to the most senior nurse. At the time, nurses were largely untrained, and the Matron was responsible for managing housekeeping along with nursing duties. The first Nightingale-trained employed by the hospital was appointed as Lady Superintendent in 1890, a position that replaced the Matron role as senior nurse. The reports were made to the House Committee and covered issues affecting nursing staff including training, leave, salaries and conditions. The reports were generally written fortnightly. The Lady Superintendents included in this series are: Amy Burleigh, 1901-1910 Jane Bell, 1910-1934 Helene Grey 1934-1957 Lynly Aitken 1958-1976 The title of the role was renamed Director of Nursing prior to the appointment of Graham Joyson in 1978, the first male to be given the role.