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Frequently it has been stated that in spite of constant persuasion
and explanation by doctor, midwife and others concerned,
women will refuse to accept advice that arrangements should, or
even must be made for hospital care and responsibility. It would
seem that in all these cases it must be mistaken kindness for any
doctor, or midwife, to accede to the wishes of the patient and her
family unless it is clear that the patient will otherwise go
unattended. The duty of the medical and nursing professions is
clear, and it is to advise patients for their own safety. Surely only
very few patients would carry their resistance to such lengths."
DRUGS
If, as a result of the notoriety earned by Thalidomide, there is,
as expected, a considerable decrease of drug taking, particularly
by women of child-bearing age, then at least that tragic episode
will not have been in vain.
While vast quantities of pills and potions are swallowed daily,
it is felt in particular that the barbiturates, stimulants and tranquillisers
are frequently misused, being remedies intended for
serious ailments which are now sought and prescribed for minor
illnesses or trivial reasons in attempts to allay anxiety or solve
personal problems. Large numbers of persons, in search of a
panacea have surrendered themselves to such remedies, an addiction
from which it is difficult to escape.
Confinements

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