(Circulation. 1999;100:e125.)
© 1999 American Heart Association, Inc.
Circulation Electronic Pages |
Critical Decisions in Thrombosis and Hemostasis
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Introduction |
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 Top Introduction |
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Jeffrey Ginsberg, Clive Kearon, Jack Hirsh. 356 pp, illustrated. Hamilton, Ontario: B.C. Decker, Inc; 1998. $65.00. ISBN 1-55009-043-7.
Tell me and I will forget;
Show me and I may remember;
Involve me and I will understand.
Confucian proverb
The cornerstone of medical education since antiquity has been the standard textbook, which by tradition is often a lengthy all-encompassing dissertation that features historical landmarks, philosophy, anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, and clinical vignettes in varying proportions, focus, and priority.
Although few would challenge the fundamental importance of traditional text-filled literary compositions, a majority of practicing clinicians acquire and apply knowledge in a structured and orderly fashion according to patient-specific needs. Similarly, most dedicated and mindful clinical educators teach the "practice of medicine," and do so by skillfully chiseling a vast or complicated subject into its more manageable component parts, molding the critical points into a tangible circumstance, and delivering the information as a gift for not only the attentive and wanting student but the deserving patient as well. The motivation to learn is suddenly transformed, superseding the self and taking on greater meaning as a service to humanity. Knowledge becomes knowledge that heals—the place where science, art, and spirituality join.
Critical Decisions in Thrombosis and Hemostasis represents an important step in medical education, for it is a resource written "by clinicians for clinicians" that captures the essence of problem-based learning and provides a clear, logical, and patient-centered approach to routine care. The book is divided into 3 sections: venous thrombosis, arterial thrombosis, and hemostasis. Each section includes chapters (52 in all) covering a variety of practical topics and offers comprehensive and concise management algorithms with accompanying text information that is brief but pointed. The management guidelines are based soundly on current literature and artfully woven together with a gold thread of personal experience offered by several of the world’s most respected clinician-scientists in the field of thrombosis and hemostasis. Indeed, the authors have taken a complex subject and lighted a clear path toward contentment that comes with simplicity, direction, and consistency.
Critical Decisions in Thrombosis and Thrombolysis is a refreshing glimpse of things to come in medical education and will amply serve internists, hematologists, cardiologists, advanced practice nurses, students of medicine, and ultimately, the patient.
Everything in medicine must begin and end with the patient.
Sir William Osler
Richard C. Becker, MD
University of Massachusetts Medical School
Worcester, Mass
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