Still Stainless
Caring for Patients at Narrabri District Hospital
Don’t be deceived – these sparkling clean stainless steel vessels have a far from pristine history. Originally from Narrabri District Hospital, this bedpan was used by patients to urinate and defecate, while the basin could assist with any necessary washing.
Made from Paramount stainless steel, they would have been used, cleaned, and then used again. Despite requiring repeated rigorous cleaning, this medical equipment provided a solution for patients unable to leave their bed to use the bathroom.
The regional hospital has long been a pillar of the Narrabri community. In the 1860s, it was one of few public buildings, alongside a school, a courthouse, a post-office and a police station. In 1944, the hospital underwent transformative renovations and an extension to become a major healthcare base for the west. It was around this time that these tools were acquired, likely manufactured by a Victorian metal-spinning and silverware business, K. G. Luke Pty. Ltd., which was becoming highly successful in this period.
Reports from the re-opening in 1944 touted the hospital as having access to the best modern equipment and medical aids. It seems the durability of stainless steel bedpans and wash basins were part of maintaining the high standards of care expected at the regional hospital.
The shiny surface of these tools now helps us reflect on the ongoing dedication to well-being which can be found in Narrabri’s local history. (Thankfully, they are no longer subject to the same heavy duty cleaning chemicals and human waste.)
