Dialogue 4 - Dressing Wounds

Netta is changing the dressings on the new French soldier, who takes a sharp breath as she cleans his wound. Sister McGowen is offering guidance. Fred is lying down in the next bed reading.

 

Netta: I’m sorry, did that hurt?

 

Sister McGowen: He can’t understand you. He doesn’t speak any English.

  

Netta: I’m sure he understands my meaning.

 

The patient moans in pain.

 

Sister McGowen: Please concentrate, Nurse Chambers. The most important thing is to make sure the wound is clean. There will always be some discomfort for the patient but you must not let that distract you.

 

Netta: Yes, Sister Pattison.

 

Tom: You can bet he’s happier lying here with you angels taking care of him than ducking German bombs.

 

Sister McGowen: Thank you, Tom. That will do. Now Netta pack the wound carefully and apply the clean dressing. (She watches Netta as she finishes up.)  That’s right… Well done. That’s a fine job. 

 

Netta: Thank you. I feel more confident here... some of the professional nurses at my first hospital didn’t think us VADs were really up to it.

 

Sister McGowen: Well I always say the most important quality for a nurse is compassion and you certainly have that. Now go and get this chap his tobacco allowance and rolling papers. That should cheer him up.