Ah, if only a hospital stay were as much fun as playing doctor was as a child, then everyone from patients to doctors and nurses would be much happier. Students have similar feelings. "There's a book for everything else," they say, "there should be one teaching us how to handle embarrassing situations with confidence and skill."

This is that book. It's realistic, well aware that hospitals are not five-star hotels. But it insists that, with the proper understanding, embarrassment can be much reduced, resulting in more comfortable patients and staff. It's also an excellent textbook...