A stay in hospital – 1948 and now

Jul 4 2008 by Karen Wilson, The Journal

IN 1948, large open-plan dormitory-style wards, called Nightingale wards, were the norm.

These mixed-sex wards gave patients little privacy, peace or dignity during their treatment. Thanks to huge investment, all of these wards have now been replaced with single-sex multi-bedded bays or single rooms.

Whereas 60 years ago patients with varying conditions were put together, today there are now specialist wards giving patients the best possible care and attention.

A stay in hospital is now a much more pleasant experience, with some en suite facilities and a TV, phone and entertainment system at bedsides.