In the Blink of An Eye: Inside a Children's Trauma Center

by Alan Doelp

Provides a behind-the-scenes look at a care center dedicated to saving the lives of children severely injured in accidents, and reveals the technology and drama that are a daily part of operations

Genres: Nonfiction

288 pages, Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The length of the book is deceiving because the last 30 or so pages are resource lists for readers to consult and ensure there is adequate pediatric trauma coverage in their area, but what Doelp packs into the remainder is an excellent look at one of the nation's first pediatric trauma services in the nation, Children's Hospital in Washington, D.C. Doelp focuses on a handful of children whose injuries run the gamut of 'accidents', from being hit by a car, to burns, to being hit by a stray bullet, and the work it takes to ensure the children's survival. Prior to the development of the trauma team at Children's and subsequent accident prevention initiative, Doelp estimates that most of the children in these stories would have died, made minimal recoveries and been left chronically and permanently impaired, or at least returned to the same circumstances that caused the injury in the first place.
Overall, a great book that I wish was longer, especially now that pediatric trauma centers are far more common and those resource lists are many years outdated.

[Isabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good — if there was anything to add/improve, it was just wanting more trauma stories!

[Madison Richards · Rating 4 out of 5]

literally read this book a hundred times... LOVE IT. the chapters about the writer and development of the hospital are kinda slow but the parts about the patients are sooooo amazing

[Amara · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exciting, fast read that hits close to home. Medical professionals will enjoy the lingo, and others will like the peek inside a trauma center. The patient stories are riveting, and the entire book is inspirational for anyone who wants to help kids or change how things are done. Because it was written in the late 80s, some things of changed, but much of the information and the process of caring for pediatric trauma patients still holds true.

[Zechy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very Important book.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dramatic stories from a children's trauma center.