Life, death, and in between: Tales of clinical neurology
Klawans (neurology, Rush Univ., Chicago) increases his series of books based upon his professional experiences ( Trials of an Expert Witness , LJ 3/15/91; Newton's Madness: Further Tales of Clinical Neurology , HarperCollins, 1990; and Toscanini's Fumble and Other Tales of Clinical Neurology , Contemporary Bks., 1988). Here, he recounts such philosophical and ethical dilemmas as treating an obviously dying patient, risking serum hepatitis from blood transfusions for pregnant women, dealing with overprotective family members, misdiagnosing ailments, confronting the environment in which death occurs (in hospitals instead of at home), removing life support systems for comatose patients, and more. Klawans is again the masterful and compassionate storyteller, and his book is interesting, thought-provoking, and entertaining. A medical dictionary may be necessary for those not versed in medical language. Recommended for most public and academic libraries; appropriate as a reader in or where philosophy or medical ethics classes are taught.- Scott Johnson, Meridian Community Coll. Lib., Miss.Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.