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Better
A Surgeon's Notes on Performance
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See moreThe struggle to perform well is universal, but nowhere is this drive to do better more important than in medicine.
The bestselling author of Complications reveals what you need to be a great surgeon - and shows how everyone can improve at what they do
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Description
Better by renowned surgeon and New Yorker writer Atul Gawande is a profound exploration of the human struggle to excel. At its heart, this book tackles the essential question: how can we get better at what we do? With a focus on medicine, Gawande delves into the high stakes world where the drive to improve is not just a striving for personal satisfaction but a matter of life and death.
The narrative carries readers through Gawande’s vivid and meticulously crafted stories, taking them to battlefield surgical tents in Iraq, the front lines of a polio outbreak in India, and the tension-filled atmosphere of malpractice courtrooms across the United States. Through these gripping accounts, Gawande reveals the incredible challenges doctors face and the innovative measures they take to overcome them.
In Better, Gawande does more than just tell stories; he offers a deep examination of the medical profession and its complex ethical landscapes. He candidly discusses the moral implications of doctors' involvement in administering lethal injections, highlighting the often-overlooked aspects of such a task. He scrutinises how financial incentives shape medical practices and decisions, bringing to light the intricate relationship between money and medicine.
One of the book’s most compelling sections delves into the surprisingly contentious history of hand-washing, underscoring how something as simple as hygiene can have monumental impacts on patient outcomes. Through this, Gawande not only enlightens the reader about medical history but also illuminates how small changes can lead to significant improvements, a lesson applicable well beyond the field of medicine.
Furthermore, Gawande provides a brutally honest insight into his personal experiences as a practising surgeon. His unflinching but compassionate narrative sheds light on the intense pressure faced by medical professionals and their relentless quest to bridge the gap between best intentions and top-tier performance. This introspective look serves as a testament to the dedication and resilience required in the world of modern medicine.
Ultimately, Better is more than a collection of medical tales; it is a detailed blueprint for success that resonates with individuals across all fields of endeavour. Gawande’s investigative prowess and empathetic approach make this book a crucial read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of improvement and excellence. Through his masterful storytelling, Gawande empowers readers to contemplate what it means to be “better” in their own lives, making it a truly transformative read.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Better by Atul Gawande receives high praise for its gripping and insightful content, with comparisons to classic medical literature. Reviewers commend its luminous prose and essential insights, recommending it as must-read material for both medical professionals and patients. The book is lauded as a modern masterpiece, recognized for its wisdom and humanity.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781861976574
Publisher: Profile Books Ltd
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 27 March 2008
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Profile Books Ltd
Edition: Main
Audience: Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 22.0mm
Width: 128.0mm
Height: 194.0mm
Weight: 227g
Pages: 288
About the Author
One of the world's most distinguished doctors, he is a staff writer on the New Yorker, advised President Clinton on health policies, teaches surgery at Harvard Medical School and practises it in Boston. He has lectured in the UK and was a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford.
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