Review: Straightjacket by Richard E. Sall, MD

A Deep Dive into "Straightjacket"

Author: Richard E. Sall, MD

ISBN: 1419630547

Overview

Norm Goldman, the editor of Bookpleasures, provides an insightful review of "Straightjacket" by Dr. Richard E. Sall. The novel chronicles a month in the life of Dr. Joe Grady, a resident surgeon at Detroit General Hospital, who faces the daunting task of completing ten major surgeries to earn his residency certification.

The Plot

Dr. Joe Grady's journey is complicated by Dr. Frank Rizzo, the hospital's chief surgeon, known among colleagues as "Little Hitler." Grady's predicament stems from his refusal to comply with a request from Arthur Williams, the hospital's chief administrator, to prescribe pain medication to a known drug seeker. This patient had previously obtained 3,600 hydrocodone tablets over three months, raising ethical concerns.

Williams, fearing negative publicity that could jeopardize the hospital's fundraising efforts, pressures Grady to bend the rules. Williams likens the hospital to McDonald's, suggesting that they should give patients whatever they want. This scenario sets the stage for a gripping narrative that delves into the ethical and moral challenges faced by medical professionals.

Realistic Depiction of Medical Training

"Sall's "Straightjacket" offers a candid portrayal of life in a bustling city hospital, resonating with anyone who has experienced the medical field firsthand. The novel highlights the grueling medical training that physicians undergo, often spanning seven to twelve years of post-bachelor-degree education. According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, the average medical student graduates with over $200,000 in debt, adding another layer of stress to an already demanding profession.

Surgical Procedures and Romantic Tension

Sall's writing style is immersive, providing readers with a front-row seat to the surgical procedures that Grady must perform. The narrative is further enriched by romantic tension as Grady falls for Nurse Linda Marie Jablonski, whose mother suffers from Borderline Personality Disorder. The plot thickens when Linda's mother threatens to hire a mobster to eliminate Grady if he doesn't stay away from her daughter. The characters are relatable, and the inclusion of dark humor adds a layer of levity to the intense storyline.

Challenges of Writing Medical Fiction

One of the challenges faced by professionals writing fiction is avoiding "déformation professionnelle," a term that refers to the distortion of decision-making by one's professional background. Sall, a practicing physician, occasionally struggles to balance medical accuracy with narrative flow. The overuse of medical jargon can slow down the story's pace, making it less accessible to readers without a medical background.

A Critical Look at the American Health System

Despite these challenges, "Straightjacket" succeeds as an engaging read that offers a frank critique of the American healthcare system. The novel sheds light on the systemic issues that plague the industry, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in healthcare.

Interesting Stats

• According to the American Hospital Association, there are over 6,000 hospitals in the United States, each facing unique challenges related to patient care and administration.
• A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that nearly 30% of medical residents experience burnout, highlighting the intense pressures faced by young doctors.

Conclusion

"Straightjacket" by Richard E. Sall, MD, is more than just a medical thriller; it's a poignant exploration of the ethical dilemmas, personal struggles, and systemic issues that define the American healthcare system. While the novel's heavy use of medical jargon may be a hurdle for some readers, its compelling narrative and relatable characters make it a worthwhile read.

For more insights, you can read Norm Goldman's full review on Bookpleasures and his interview with Dr. Richard E. Sall.