Book Review

Donald, a 39-year-old man with terminal cystic fibrosis, wishes to die without further medical intervention, but his physician is adamant about the need for invasive procedures; Arthur, a 35-year-old man who is profoundly mentally disabled, requires heart surgery, but his surgeon wonders whether he should withhold the surgery on humanitarian grounds; and Debbie, a 21-year-old pregnant woman who is homeless and has not received any prenatal care, delivers a premature infant who dies in the emergency room despite heroic resuscitation efforts. Because it contains these cases and their resolutions, along with dozens of others, this is a credible work. Because of its scientific approach and lucid presentation, it should be required reading for all members of hospital ethics committees.