Final Exam: A Surgeon's Reflections on Mortality

Final Exam A Surgeon's Reflections on Mortality

Final Exam: A Surgeon's Reflections on Mortality is a non-fiction book written by Pauline W. Chen, a American surgeon and author. Published in 2007, the book explores the challenges and emotional turmoil that surgeons face while dealing with the concepts of life, death, and mortality. Through personal anecdotes, reflections, and patient stories, Chen delves into the often-taboo subject of death in the medical community, offering insights into the complexities of end-of-life care, the doctor-patient relationship, and the personal impact of mortality on medical professionals.

Summary

Final Exam begins with Chen's experiences as a medical student, where she first encounters the realities of death and the discomfort it brings to many in her profession. As she progresses through her surgical residency and into her career, she confronts the paradox of a surgeon's role: to stave off death while constantly facing it. The book is structured around various cases and personal experiences that highlight the emotional and ethical dilemmas doctors face, such as how to communicate bad news to patients and their families, the process of making life-and-death decisions, and the personal toll of losing patients.

Chen also addresses the lack of training for doctors in dealing with death and dying, arguing for a more compassionate and empathetic approach to medicine that acknowledges the inevitability of mortality. She advocates for better end-of-life care, emphasizing the importance of understanding patients' wishes and the value of palliative care.

Themes

The primary themes of Final Exam include the ethical challenges in medicine, the emotional impact of death on healthcare professionals, and the importance of empathy and communication in the doctor-patient relationship. Chen explores how the culture of medicine often prioritizes technical skill and detachment over emotional connection and how this can lead to a lack of support for both patients and doctors when facing death.

Reception

Final Exam: A Surgeon's Reflections on Mortality has been praised for its honest and compassionate exploration of a difficult subject. Critics and readers alike have lauded Chen's ability to blend personal narrative with broader reflections on the medical profession, making complex ethical and emotional issues accessible to a wide audience. The book has been recommended for both medical professionals and the general public as a means of gaining insight into the realities of healthcare, the human side of medicine, and the universal experience of mortality.

Impact

Chen's book has contributed to ongoing discussions about death and dying in medicine, encouraging more open conversations about end-of-life care, the need for palliative care training, and the importance of addressing the emotional needs of both patients and healthcare providers. It has been used in medical education settings as a tool to prompt discussions about the non-technical skills necessary for compassionate care.