St. Thomas’ Hospital facts for kids
St Thomas' Hospital is a very important hospital located right in the heart of London, next to the famous River Thames. It's known for its long history, especially for training nurses. In 1860, it became home to the Nightingale Training School for Nurses, which was started by the famous nurse, Florence Nightingale.
Today, St Thomas' Hospital is part of a bigger group called the Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. This trust also includes Guy's Hospital and King's College Hospital, working together to provide healthcare for many people.
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What is St Thomas' Hospital?
St Thomas' Hospital is a large and busy hospital that helps thousands of people every year. It has many different departments, from emergency care to special treatments for various illnesses. Hospitals like St Thomas' are vital places where doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers help people get better when they are sick or injured.
Where is it Located?
The hospital sits in a great spot in central London, on the south bank of the River Thames. If you visit, you can see famous landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben right across the river! Being in the city center makes it easy for many people to reach when they need medical help.
A Look Back: Hospital History
St Thomas' Hospital has a very long and interesting history, going back hundreds of years. It was originally founded much earlier than 1860, though that year was important for nursing.
How it Started
The hospital's roots go all the way back to the 12th century! It was first set up by a religious order to care for the poor and sick. Over the centuries, it moved locations a few times and grew bigger, always focusing on helping people in need.
Florence Nightingale's Impact
One of the most famous parts of St Thomas' history is its connection to Florence Nightingale. She was a pioneering nurse who changed how hospitals worked and how nurses were trained. In 1860, her special nursing school opened at St Thomas'. This school taught nurses modern ways of caring for patients, which was a huge step forward for healthcare around the world. It helped make nursing a respected and professional job.
Modern Healthcare at St Thomas'
Today, St Thomas' Hospital is a very modern and advanced medical center. It uses the latest technology and research to provide excellent care.
What Services Does it Offer?
The hospital offers a wide range of medical services. This includes:
- Emergency care for urgent situations
- Specialist treatments for heart conditions, cancer, and many other diseases
- Maternity services for new mothers and babies
- Surgery for various conditions
- Outpatient clinics where people can see doctors for check-ups and advice
Research and Teaching
St Thomas' is not just a place for treating patients; it's also a major center for medical research and teaching. Doctors and scientists work there to discover new ways to fight diseases. It also helps train new doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, making sure there are skilled people to care for us in the future.