The art of anaesthesia / by Paluel J. Flagg.

  • Flagg, Paluel J. (Paluel Joseph), 1886-1970.
Date:
[1919], ©1919
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: The art of anaesthesia / by Paluel J. Flagg. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    THE proper administration of an anesthetic 1s more than a mere mechanical performance, it is an art. The Art of Anesthesia is acquired by becoming famil- iar with the laws which govern its administration and by developing the ability to properly correlate and apply these laws. It will be perceived that while a knowledge of laws is essential, yet this knowledge is superseded by the ability to properly apply them. ‘This controlling element is what constitutes the essence of the art. HK:xperience begets dex- terity, tact and skill. These qualities, while somewhat intangible, are nevertheless indispensable. ‘They imply a correct and spontaneous response to the demands of the patient. The Art of Anesthesia is not contained within any particular mode of administration. So-called empirical, percentage and shock-absorbing methods have their place, but should not be permitted to dominate over the art in its broader sense. ‘They are its tools and must be observed from a point of view which considers the surgeon, the pa- tient, the time, the place and many other factors. Since familiarity breeds contempt, the anesthetist must never forget to approach each case with a certain degree of courtesy and respect, for the possibilities of success as well as of failure in each are almost unlimited. A thousand anesthesias, instead of leading to crude- ness, should make one a thousand times more careful. As one proceeds, one should try to formulate laws, and these one should strive to prove by the next case.