Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

Cynicism, emotional exhaustion, or self-centeredness occurring in a health care professional previously dedicated to his or her work and clients.  

The administration of investigational drugs to a patient in a special circumstance in which it is felt that the drug may be lifesaving or effective when no other therapy would be. The procedure requires the treating physician to contact either the Food and Drug Administration or the drug manufacturer to obtain permission.  

Deep awareness of the pain and suffering of others; empathy. A feeling of sympathy people have when they witness suffering.  

An increase in intra-compartmental pressure that may occur during exercise or other forms of exertional activity. The increased intra-compartmental pressure decreases blood flow to the distal extremity and impairs nerve function.  

A part of the body composed of several elements linked in a common structure, e.g. the abdominal compartment, or the muscular compartments of a limb. It pertains to an assemblage of muscles, along with their accompanying nerves and blood vessels, encased within the fascia.  

A term sometimes used in public health or toxicology as a synonym for baseline.  

In forensic medicine, negligence of the plaintiff and defendant measured in terms of percentages. Damages awarded are decreased in proportion to the plaintiff s amount of negligence provided it is less than that of the defendant.  

The provision of personal homebased protection, assistance, and company for those who cannot or do not frequently leave their residences. Companionship services include conversation, reading aloud, or running light errands and are most often provided to the aged or infirm.