Rationale, aims and objectives
The onset of acute illness may be accompanied by a profound sense of
disorientation for patients. Addressing this vulnerability is a key part
of a physician’s purview, yet well-intended efforts to do so may be
impeded by myriad competing tasks in clinical practice. Resolving this
dilemma goes beyond appealing to altruism, as its limitless demands may
lead to physician burnout, disillusionment, and a narrowed focus on the
biomedical aspects of care in the interest of self-preservation. The
authors propose an ethic of hospitality that may better guide physicians
in attending to the comprehensive needs of patients that have entered
“the kingdom of the sick”.