"Five Days at Memorial" by Sheri Fink is a gripping and thought-provoking account of the events that took place at Memorial Medical Center in New Orleans during and after Hurricane Katrina. Fink, a journalist and physician, provides a detailed and harrowing narrative of the decisions made by healthcare providers and staff as they struggled to care for patients in the midst of the chaos and devastation.
The book explores the ethical dilemmas faced by the doctors and nurses at Memorial, who were forced to make life-and-death decisions under extreme circumstances. Fink delves into the complexities of medical ethics, resource allocation, and the prioritization of care during disasters, raising important questions about the responsibilities of healthcare providers in times of crisis.
Fink's writing is both compelling and compassionate, as she gives voice to the patients, families, and healthcare workers who were caught in the midst of the storm. She paints a vivid picture of the chaos and desperation that ensued at Memorial, while also highlighting the incredible acts of courage and compassion displayed by those who worked tirelessly to save lives.
Overall, "Five Days at Memorial" is a powerful and important book that sheds light on the challenges of providing healthcare during disasters and the difficult decisions that must be made in order to save lives. It is a must-read for anyone interested in healthcare, ethics, and the human experience in times of crisis.