Something for the Pain: Compassion and Burnout in the ER

Something for the Pain: Compassion and Burnout in the ER cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Buy online
Technical
  • ID: 11333
  • Added: 2026-03-07
  • Updated: 2026-03-07
  • ISBN: 9780393063141
  • Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
  • Published: 2009-10-21
  • Reviews: 3

In Something for the Pain, Paul Austin provides a stark and unflinching look at the daily grind of working in the emergency room. The relentless pace, the endless stream of patients, and the emotional toll of their stories push him to the brink of bitterness and despair. /n/n Yet, amidst the chaos, Austin finds moments of redemption and a renewed sense of compassion. His powerful account offers a glimpse into the fragility of the human spirit in the high-pressure environment of modern hospitals.

Reviews
thought-provoking 3.50

The book is a short read but focuses deeply on the emotions of working in an emergency department. It's a poignant reflection on the daily struggles of ER doctors.

This Reddit user highlights that while the book is a short read, it delves deeply into the emotional aspects of working in an emergency department. It's a poignant reflection on the daily struggles and emotional toll that ER doctors face. The narrative is both moving and insightful, offering a glimpse into the often overlooked challenges of the profession. The user found it to be a compelling and thought-provoking read.


Quick quotes

    It's a short read, but if I remember correctly, focuses mostly on the emotions of what is like working in an ED.

    A definite page-turner and a riveting debut.

    In this eye-opening account of life in the ER, Paul Austin recalls how the daily grind of long, erratic shifts and endless hordes of patients with sad stories.

Amazon · 2017-01-01
engrossing 4.50

The book is a fast-paced read that effectively balances the author's professional and personal life. It provides a raw and honest look at the challenges faced by ER doctors.

This book is a gripping account of an ER doctor's life, seamlessly weaving together his professional and personal experiences. The narrative is both fast-paced and deeply moving, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the emotional toll and chronic exhaustion that ER doctors endure. It's a compelling read that sheds light on the often overlooked struggles of healthcare professionals.


Quick quotes

    I found this book to be a great read and very fast moving.

    It does go back and forth between Dr. Austin's encounters with his patients and those with his family.

    A definite page-turner and a riveting debut.

Anastomosed · T · 2012-01-02
insightful 4.00

The book is nuanced and clear, offering a different perspective from the author's previous works. It effectively captures the emotional and physical demands of working in the ER.

T found this book to be much more nuanced and clear compared to the author's previous works. It provides a unique insight into the emotional and physical demands of working in the emergency room. The narrative is compelling and offers a different perspective that is both engaging and thought-provoking. T appreciated the depth and clarity with which the author portrays the challenges faced by ER doctors.


Quick quotes

    Different from his first person non-fiction.

    Much more nuanced and clear.

    A definite page-turner and a riveting debut.