The art is long, life is short
HippocratesRead
Primum non nocerum. (First do no harm)
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of avoiding harm in any action, especially in medicine.
Hippocrates' phrase 'Primum non nocere', which translates to 'First do no harm', serves as a fundamental ethical guideline in medicine and healthcare. It underscores the responsibility of practitioners to prioritize the well-being of patients above all else, advocating for a precautionary approach in both diagnosis and treatment, thereby instilling trust in the patient-practitioner relationship.
Themes
HealthEthicsMedicineResponsibilityWellbeing
In practice
Example use cases
In a medical ethics seminar, this quote can initiate a discussion on the responsibilities of healthcare professionals.
More from Hippocrates
All quotes βThe body of man has in itself blood, phlegm, yellow bile and black bile; these make up the nature of this body, and through these he feels pain or enjoys health. Now he enjoys the most perfect health when these elements are duly proportioned to one another in respect of compounding, power and bulk, and when they are perfectly mingled.
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That which is used - develops. That which is not used wastes away.
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Cure sometimes, treat often, comfort always.
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Wine is an appropriate article for mankind, both for the healthy body and for the ailing man.
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Walking is man's best medicine.
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