When , in 1935, doctors found themselves increasingly the targets of malpractice litigation, they received advice from a fellow doctor in Clinical Medicine & Surgery:

Never under any circumstances promise a cure or use language which might be interpreted as such a promise.

Be careful of diagnoses and when there is doubt don't "affix a label."

When calling a consultant, select one who knows more than you do.

In surgical cases, in unfamiliar surroundings, see that a careful count of all sponges is kept all the time, and be sure that the count is verified before closing the incision.

If an operation is to be performed, have the patient, or his guardian, give consent in writing, or verbal consent in the presence of a witness.

Collect your fees when they are due. It is a wellrecognized fact that many malpractice suits are started because physicians try to...