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ER DOC: Defining Moments of a Career in Emergency Medicine
Over the course of twenty-five years in the ER, Dr. Reggie Duling has seen cases that have stuck with him for various reasons. Some are poignant, some tragic, others hilarious. The ER is a bustling place filled with patients who seek expert emergency care while at their most vulnerable. From heart attacks to foreign bodies, Dr. Duling hasn't seen it all, but he has seen his share. ER DOC, Defining Moments of a Career in Emergency Medicine relays the humor and somber responsibility of being an emergency physician in the American healthcare system. 2022 Nancy Pearl Book Award Finalist for Best Memoir.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2021
266 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
September 2, 2021
Good until the politics of hate took over
As a medical professional myself (It’s Physician Assistant, by the way, NOT “Physicians Assistant”, as any physician should take the trouble to learn), I can attest to the fact that the medical details are generally correct & the read was entertaining….right
up to the point where Duling recommends nationalizing US health care & suggests that medical care be rationed to the most deserving. In view of the stories immediately preceding, this sounded dangerously like, “just let the old folks die”.
Even that could have been ignored until & except that he destroyed everything that had gone before with his venomous, unjustified, & frankly, inaccurate criticism of Donald Trump viz a viz SARS-CoV-2. Perhaps, in retrospect he may now regret his praise of the constantly flip-flopping Tony Fauci who certainly has proved himself as undeserving of his high praise as Trump is of Duling’s misguided scorn. The abusive misuse of lockdowns, election malfeasance & masking & vaccine mandates as mechanisms of control by the radical Leftwing Biden administration renders his complaints of politicization by the former President ludicrous.
In summary, Dr. Duling should have stuck to his area of expertise & storytelling & kept his politics to himself; he destroyed his venture into literature by sharing his toxic, & silly, views. He certainly assured that I won’t recommend this book…..or read anything else he may write.
As a medical professional myself (It’s Physician Assistant, by the way, NOT “Physicians Assistant”, as any physician should take the trouble to learn), I can attest to the fact that the medical details are generally correct & the read was entertaining….right
up to the point where Duling recommends nationalizing US health care & suggests that medical care be rationed to the most deserving. In view of the stories immediately preceding, this sounded dangerously like, “just let the old folks die”.
Even that could have been ignored until & except that he destroyed everything that had gone before with his venomous, unjustified, & frankly, inaccurate criticism of Donald Trump viz a viz SARS-CoV-2. Perhaps, in retrospect he may now regret his praise of the constantly flip-flopping Tony Fauci who certainly has proved himself as undeserving of his high praise as Trump is of Duling’s misguided scorn. The abusive misuse of lockdowns, election malfeasance & masking & vaccine mandates as mechanisms of control by the radical Leftwing Biden administration renders his complaints of politicization by the former President ludicrous.
In summary, Dr. Duling should have stuck to his area of expertise & storytelling & kept his politics to himself; he destroyed his venture into literature by sharing his toxic, & silly, views. He certainly assured that I won’t recommend this book…..or read anything else he may write.
November 30, 2021
I was going to give it a 5 until he went on an epic rage political rant. The irony is that I don't even disagree with him necessarily, but it completely ruined the book for me. I love the topic of medicine, therefore I read a lot of books on it. It's why I chose this.
I hate politics, absolutely despise it - and to have that just jammed in my face out of nowhere at the end was like being sucker punched. Two stars because the medical part was so good.
What a shame, the author should just take it out, it's an embarrassment. I don't want my ER doc to be a raving political lunatic who uses hyperbole so strident it can be felt almost physically. Yikes.
We can read that crap on twitter. And that's why I quit twitter. Politics. Just say no.
I hate politics, absolutely despise it - and to have that just jammed in my face out of nowhere at the end was like being sucker punched. Two stars because the medical part was so good.
What a shame, the author should just take it out, it's an embarrassment. I don't want my ER doc to be a raving political lunatic who uses hyperbole so strident it can be felt almost physically. Yikes.
We can read that crap on twitter. And that's why I quit twitter. Politics. Just say no.
May 25, 2021
Disappointing
This author wrote about some pretty interesting cases but then he deviates from that to make sure we know he doesn’t believe in God. Now I don’t care if he does or doesn’t, besides it didn’t add anything to this book by writing about religion. He writes about other ER cases and lives he has saved and then he throws politics into this. Ridiculous. I couldn’t care less about his political or religious beliefs. I have read many books written by doctors and none of them touched on those two subjects.
This author wrote about some pretty interesting cases but then he deviates from that to make sure we know he doesn’t believe in God. Now I don’t care if he does or doesn’t, besides it didn’t add anything to this book by writing about religion. He writes about other ER cases and lives he has saved and then he throws politics into this. Ridiculous. I couldn’t care less about his political or religious beliefs. I have read many books written by doctors and none of them touched on those two subjects.
May 28, 2021
I give this book 1star since there are some interesting stories (and we're unable to give no stars).. First of all, this Doctor is on an 'ego high'. Throughout most of the book his sense of self-importance is evident, which in itself is such a turn-off. He delves into politics which shouldn't even be in the book. He has an entire chapter devoted to bashing Donald Trump. The worst thing is: He has a chapter in which he makes fun of Jesus. The Son of God but what else can you expect from an atheist? It's his book and he can write anything he likes but it doesn't mean I have to 'like' it.
September 7, 2021
Amazing
Amazing medical book. This is a book written by an Emergency Room doctor about his life as an ER doctor, his successes and failures. It can be read and understood by laymen and medical personnel. I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who likes stories about medicine. Thank you Doctor Reggie Duling. I would be thankful if I or any member of my family had your expertise
Amazing medical book. This is a book written by an Emergency Room doctor about his life as an ER doctor, his successes and failures. It can be read and understood by laymen and medical personnel. I enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone who likes stories about medicine. Thank you Doctor Reggie Duling. I would be thankful if I or any member of my family had your expertise
January 26, 2026
Tells it like it is
Heartbreaking and hilarious, Dr. Duling takes us along on a career spent in Ed medicine. From the day to day operations to the wider social and political landscape, Duling highlights idiocy and heroism. Thanks Doc.
Heartbreaking and hilarious, Dr. Duling takes us along on a career spent in Ed medicine. From the day to day operations to the wider social and political landscape, Duling highlights idiocy and heroism. Thanks Doc.
November 10, 2022
A Must Read
An honest, heartfelt sharing of the experiences of one ER physician. They see us at our worst and at our best as fellow human beings. Thanks for being there when we need you.
An honest, heartfelt sharing of the experiences of one ER physician. They see us at our worst and at our best as fellow human beings. Thanks for being there when we need you.
July 9, 2021
An incredible read
Although at times it reads like a really good textbook, it's fascinating in its insight into what takes to be a really great leader in such a difficult field of medicine. As a retired psych RN people would tell me it's a dangerous job - not so. I know when a patient comes on my admission unit, via the police, they are not armed, no guns, knives and above all I know they are crazy. Those in the ED don't know that but they treat them anyway. Yes, in these times a metal detector should be mandatory and to help with the optics.
And as for the chapter on rage re the COVID epidemic, the author expresses my feelings better than I ever could.
I don't usually write reviews this lengthy, but I just hope if I am in a life threatening situation, Dr Ruling or hid clone will be at the door of the ED.
Although at times it reads like a really good textbook, it's fascinating in its insight into what takes to be a really great leader in such a difficult field of medicine. As a retired psych RN people would tell me it's a dangerous job - not so. I know when a patient comes on my admission unit, via the police, they are not armed, no guns, knives and above all I know they are crazy. Those in the ED don't know that but they treat them anyway. Yes, in these times a metal detector should be mandatory and to help with the optics.
And as for the chapter on rage re the COVID epidemic, the author expresses my feelings better than I ever could.
I don't usually write reviews this lengthy, but I just hope if I am in a life threatening situation, Dr Ruling or hid clone will be at the door of the ED.
June 29, 2021
Liked All But One Chapter
I really enjoyed reading the stories, and the author's path in becoming an ER doctor. The reason I am only giving this book 3 stars is due to the next to the last chapter in the book. For some reason, the author felt it was necessary to take a political stance on the Covid-19 pandemic, and basically call President Trump an idiot for a whole chapter. I don't understand why that chapter was necessary. I was reading the book to learn about life as an ER doctor, not to read a bunch of ranting against politicians. That chapter just didn't seem to fit the rest of the book.
I really enjoyed reading the stories, and the author's path in becoming an ER doctor. The reason I am only giving this book 3 stars is due to the next to the last chapter in the book. For some reason, the author felt it was necessary to take a political stance on the Covid-19 pandemic, and basically call President Trump an idiot for a whole chapter. I don't understand why that chapter was necessary. I was reading the book to learn about life as an ER doctor, not to read a bunch of ranting against politicians. That chapter just didn't seem to fit the rest of the book.
September 9, 2021
Great book!
This certainly was a quick reading. Dr. Duling has some hysterical stories (Chief complaint: I think there might be something in my…) that had me in stitches. I shared that section with several people and laughed out loud each time. Some of the other stories made me cry (Jane’s handprint) pretty bad. But overall this book was amazing to read. I can’t imagine doing this job and the fact that people continue to volunteer to work in the ER during COVID is just amazing. They are the true heroes of our world.
This certainly was a quick reading. Dr. Duling has some hysterical stories (Chief complaint: I think there might be something in my…) that had me in stitches. I shared that section with several people and laughed out loud each time. Some of the other stories made me cry (Jane’s handprint) pretty bad. But overall this book was amazing to read. I can’t imagine doing this job and the fact that people continue to volunteer to work in the ER during COVID is just amazing. They are the true heroes of our world.
October 21, 2021
A Quick, exciting read
For the most part I enjoyed this book. It held my attention. It was at times humorous, at times poignant. If Dr Duling had stuck to story telling I would have given this a higher rating. The chapter on COVID 19 was a hysterical rant against then President Trump. The book should carry a warning that it contains significant political propaganda.
Dr Duking should stick to storytelling. He’s rather good at it.
For the most part I enjoyed this book. It held my attention. It was at times humorous, at times poignant. If Dr Duling had stuck to story telling I would have given this a higher rating. The chapter on COVID 19 was a hysterical rant against then President Trump. The book should carry a warning that it contains significant political propaganda.
Dr Duking should stick to storytelling. He’s rather good at it.
June 7, 2021
Many parts of this book are hilariously funny. Some are very touching. A few are outrageous. I have read the criticisms regarding politics, but can you blame the author? Objectively, the U.S. response was far, far from an example of American exceptionalism. Besides, that's like six pages of the entire book. It is well worth the read for the laugh-out-loud moments alone.
June 28, 2021
Most well written medical diary I’ve ever read!
This ER doctor has not only excellent medical knowledge and skills , he is one of the best e
writers of non-fiction that I have come across.
This ER doctor has not only excellent medical knowledge and skills , he is one of the best e
writers of non-fiction that I have come across.
July 19, 2021
Excellent read
I like this man. I like what he stands for. His honesty and decency ring true. I would hope to have someone like him treat me if I was taken to the ER. It would be an honor to get to meet him. Read the book, you'll learn lots of things.
I like this man. I like what he stands for. His honesty and decency ring true. I would hope to have someone like him treat me if I was taken to the ER. It would be an honor to get to meet him. Read the book, you'll learn lots of things.
November 10, 2021
Great
Very enjoyable….and accurate book. Was getting a bit concerned towards the end that ER Nurses were not going to get a mention, but he came in for the save on that one!
Loved the Covid / Trump discussion.
Very enjoyable….and accurate book. Was getting a bit concerned towards the end that ER Nurses were not going to get a mention, but he came in for the save on that one!
Loved the Covid / Trump discussion.
May 5, 2022
Great book
Author really loves his job. His experiences as a ER doctor are really touching and enlightening. Nice to know that there are people in medicine that truly love to help people. Great read I highly recommend it.
Author really loves his job. His experiences as a ER doctor are really touching and enlightening. Nice to know that there are people in medicine that truly love to help people. Great read I highly recommend it.
March 31, 2021
Great book
I enjoyed reading this. Absolutely great book filled with stories that will make you laugh out loud, feel sadness, and feel happy.
I enjoyed reading this. Absolutely great book filled with stories that will make you laugh out loud, feel sadness, and feel happy.
July 4, 2021
Thank you ER doc!
Loved every word. The doc says it well and speaks for most of us in the medical field. Mr. Incredible for sure!
Loved every word. The doc says it well and speaks for most of us in the medical field. Mr. Incredible for sure!
December 28, 2021
I would give this 10 stars if I could; loved everything about it. Thank you!!
March 4, 2023
Much to Like
I enjoyed reading the accounts (HIPPAA protected of course!) of some of the illnesses and situations that brought people to Dr Duling's emergency room. When we find ourselves needing to go to an E.R., we are obviously unwell, vulnerable and not at our best. We often don't come in all polished and presenting well as if we were going to a job interview or a meeting with our child's teacher. It impressed me that no matter how these folks looked, spoke, or what their complaints were, this doctor treated them with dignity and tried to find a way to help.
I once overheard an E.R doctor refer to a patient as a "frequent flyer" in front of the patient --but not talking directly to her as he spoke to a nurse because apparently "she was just here yesterday for the same exact problem and once the end of last week also." She grew agitated and raised her voice , saying (among other things) "I TOLD you yesterday I have panic attacks when this happens! You don't need to be an ass!" Personally I would have reported the doctor. He could have handled it a lot better. But anyway...
The book did hold my attention and taught me a few things as well. The one thing I didn't like and was tempted to deduct a star for (at least!) was taking the Lord's name in vain. There is no need of that and someone as intelligent as a doctor should have no problem coming up with either a different swear word OR something else describing the situation. Just because the author felt the need at one point to mention he doesn't believe in God, doesn't mean his readers (or patients for that matter) don't. I will respect your right NOT to believe -- as long as you respect MY right to not witness your blasphemy against my Father!
I enjoyed reading the accounts (HIPPAA protected of course!) of some of the illnesses and situations that brought people to Dr Duling's emergency room. When we find ourselves needing to go to an E.R., we are obviously unwell, vulnerable and not at our best. We often don't come in all polished and presenting well as if we were going to a job interview or a meeting with our child's teacher. It impressed me that no matter how these folks looked, spoke, or what their complaints were, this doctor treated them with dignity and tried to find a way to help.
I once overheard an E.R doctor refer to a patient as a "frequent flyer" in front of the patient --but not talking directly to her as he spoke to a nurse because apparently "she was just here yesterday for the same exact problem and once the end of last week also." She grew agitated and raised her voice , saying (among other things) "I TOLD you yesterday I have panic attacks when this happens! You don't need to be an ass!" Personally I would have reported the doctor. He could have handled it a lot better. But anyway...
The book did hold my attention and taught me a few things as well. The one thing I didn't like and was tempted to deduct a star for (at least!) was taking the Lord's name in vain. There is no need of that and someone as intelligent as a doctor should have no problem coming up with either a different swear word OR something else describing the situation. Just because the author felt the need at one point to mention he doesn't believe in God, doesn't mean his readers (or patients for that matter) don't. I will respect your right NOT to believe -- as long as you respect MY right to not witness your blasphemy against my Father!
October 31, 2024
This is a finely written and very accurate account of being an ER doc. So much so, it made me want to speak to the author, to thank him for putting pretty much everything I've ever wanted to say about the only job I was made to do.
And bull crap to those who are whining about the chapter on Covid 19. He says fear and rage ruled the days and it did. We really very much thought our lives were at risk and we did it anyway. I put my rage into vaccinating hundreds and thousands on my days off. Thank you, Reggie for saying what needed to be said.
I'm grateful that Dr. Duling is a beautiful writer, that he is poignant and funny. I'm impressed with his chapter on crisis management which was well done.
Thank you. Read it so you can have an idea of what someone you love does everyday and why decision fatigue means I can't make the f-ing grocery list so you can shop for dinner. The LIST is too much.
Thank you.
Kim Yeargin
And bull crap to those who are whining about the chapter on Covid 19. He says fear and rage ruled the days and it did. We really very much thought our lives were at risk and we did it anyway. I put my rage into vaccinating hundreds and thousands on my days off. Thank you, Reggie for saying what needed to be said.
I'm grateful that Dr. Duling is a beautiful writer, that he is poignant and funny. I'm impressed with his chapter on crisis management which was well done.
Thank you. Read it so you can have an idea of what someone you love does everyday and why decision fatigue means I can't make the f-ing grocery list so you can shop for dinner. The LIST is too much.
Thank you.
Kim Yeargin
May 27, 2022
After working in the ER over the past year, I found the stories in this book relatable and at times, funny. This was a fast read for me and I was captivated the entire time. Some other reviews of this book had problems with his chapter on politics and medicine, but really this was such a minor part of the book and it didn’t bother me at all. After all, how can you talk about seeing some of the poorest, sickest, and most neglected people in America as an ER doctor without touching on the need for a better health care system? I fully recommend this book for anyone interested in medicine or healthcare!
May 12, 2023
Awesome!
Great combination of sharp writing, passion and humor with true life medical stories. A healthy dose of social commentary as well, that for me, was right on the money. Lots to enjoy and to "think on" in this book. And a reminder of how fortunate we are to have such ER docs and personnel at the ready 24/7.
Great combination of sharp writing, passion and humor with true life medical stories. A healthy dose of social commentary as well, that for me, was right on the money. Lots to enjoy and to "think on" in this book. And a reminder of how fortunate we are to have such ER docs and personnel at the ready 24/7.
February 23, 2021
Defining Moments
This was a little more on the textbook side as opposed to the entertainment side of writing. Thinking was skewed at times with the Teddy Roosevelt quotes. Political commentary has no place in a book that is to look back on a career and life well-lived.
This was a little more on the textbook side as opposed to the entertainment side of writing. Thinking was skewed at times with the Teddy Roosevelt quotes. Political commentary has no place in a book that is to look back on a career and life well-lived.
October 2, 2021
Enjoyable and educational
I enjoyed the book and it keep me interested. I have read a lot of books written by ER doctors and I have learned so much .
I would like to ask this doctor...how do you like your President now?
I enjoyed the book and it keep me interested. I have read a lot of books written by ER doctors and I have learned so much .
I would like to ask this doctor...how do you like your President now?
October 5, 2021
Great book until ...
This was a awesome book until the author got all political about covid and the vaccines... If I want political views regarding covid. I will use social media or just turn on the news.
This was a awesome book until the author got all political about covid and the vaccines... If I want political views regarding covid. I will use social media or just turn on the news.
February 26, 2022
I liked it until his rant on Trump. I am not a Trump fan either, sbutI wished he had stuck with the medical stuff. I really don't give a hoot about his political views on that and socialized medicine.
Other than those 2, I enjoyed the book
Other than those 2, I enjoyed the book
July 22, 2024
Entertaining and informative
This is a quick, enjoyable read. Not for the weak of stomach or heart, as the author spares no detail. Informative in regard to the realities of working as an E.R. doctor.
This is a quick, enjoyable read. Not for the weak of stomach or heart, as the author spares no detail. Informative in regard to the realities of working as an E.R. doctor.
October 9, 2021
Very Goodq
This is an interesting and well written book. The doctor tells of many different experiences and cases he worked on over the years.
This is an interesting and well written book. The doctor tells of many different experiences and cases he worked on over the years.
October 22, 2021
Good read!!
Its a really good book. I want him to be my doctor, some of the stories are funny , some sad but very good.
Its a really good book. I want him to be my doctor, some of the stories are funny , some sad but very good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews