Ideals in Medicine

THI s is the third volume of this work of four volumes. The contributors are all specialists in the particular fields of surgery covered, and the approach is essentially clinical an-di practical. The subjects discussed in this volume include genito-urinary surgery, peripheral vascular diseases, plastic surgery, actinomycosis, radiology, and radiotherapy. In addition, there are sections on tropical surgery, venereal diseases, the adrenal and parathyroid glands, blood transfusion, fluids and electrolytes, hxmorrhage, shock and chemo-therapy. The book is essentially one for the general surgeon or postgraduate student working for a higher examination, and is highly recommended. THIS book deals with that fundamental subject-medical ethics-which forms the basis of medicine as a vocational art. In the practice of medicine our actions are continuously guided by a code of behaviour and moral outlook which we have come to accept as part of the profession of medicine. To a certain extent, medical ethics may be coloured by personal views, the influence of revered chiefs or by wider moral and spiritual values. The authors believe that the distinctive stamp of good medical ethics is given by Christian ideals. They further consider that the best standards will be achieved with a well-prepared mind and a Christian trained conscience. This theme is elaborated and extended throughout the text, which covers a wide variety of subjects-all of which are of fundamental importance. The authors consider the doctor's personal standards and his ultimate loyalties; his relationship to the disabled, incurable or dying patient; his relationship to the patient's family; and his relationship to his own colleagues. This book is not only a guide to all embarking on the profession of medicine but a challenge to those already practising it, demanding that all such should examine their conscience to see if they are practising medicine to the very highest moral and ethical standards.