A collection of 25 thought provoking Essays which create a bridge
between the Classical personification of values and link them to current
training and education in Western Medicine. This readable and erudite
text provides a framework for modern clinical values - with a particular
emphasis on anesthesiology - set in the context of ageless dilemmas
facing each generation of physicians.
Medicine as a profession carries some specific obligations.The qualities
of empathy, knowledge, generosity, respect, and scholarship provide a
"family" of values that was personified by the Ancients in the family
of Asklepios, and which form the basis of professional values today.
Moreover, a substantial amount of professional growth should come from
reflection based on the experience of caring for real patients - an
appreciation of the human condition. Each essay within this
beautifully crafted book illustrates the importance of expertise, skill,
focus, mindfulness, and collaboration, all of which are integral to
professionalism in medicine, and in particular to those working in the
field of anesthesiology.
Anesthesiologists, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and
Anesthesia Assistants will find much to enhance their professional
understanding within this text. The principles, values and traits of
professionalism are relevant to all medical specialties and these essays
provide a lyrical understanding of the traits required for professional
development.
