Medieval Medicine Flashcards
Why were Cathedrals, especially Canterbury Cathedral- places with the best public health?
Cathedrals valued cleanliness, and were very wealthy meaning they could easy maintain hygienic conditions- plans of Canterbury Cathedral (1153) have shown it had its own water supply, kitchens and privies kept separately. Monasteries also had draining piping and sewers.
Why was it difficult for change to come to public health during medieval times (rich people)
The rich did not wish to “waste” their money on cleaning the streets, especially to benefit the poor
What is another major reason public health didn’t change in medieval England?
As the strong belief was that if you were sick that was God’s intention and if you went against that (treating the patient) that would be a sin.
Physicians were taught the work of which individuals?
They would be taught the work of Galen and Hippocrates at the medical university so they were somewhat qualified.
Why was people basing medicine off the work of Galen and Hippocrates, not such a good thing?
As it lead to the strong belief in the theory of the 4 humours, this was mainly as Galen’s scientific theory still coincided with the theory of a “God” so the Church supported it.
What treatments were commonly used by physicians?
Bleeding, purging and urine charts to monitor health- even astrology was used
What was the issue with Barber-surgeons?
Barber-surgeons were not required to have studied at university so often went wrong and were not trained in the subject.
What was a good method of training barber surgeons did go through?
Barber-surgeons usually became an experienced surgeons’ apprentice and watched many surgeries and operations giving them first hand experience
What were medieval surgeons unaware of making surgeries dangerous and usually unsuccessful?
They weren’t aware of bacteria, so used the same dirty equipment between each patient and wore the same dirty clothes.
How did many surgeons learn and adapt their trade in medieval times?
Many learnt from their experiences on the battle field
Who were the main providers of care during the Middle Ages?
Women, usually the first to treat patients and used herbal remedies.
What kind of remedies did apothecaries sell?
Ranges of wine, herbs and spices to “treat” people
What was hospital care like in the Middle Ages?
Usually they only offered hospitality for poor visitors rather than caring for the sick, however in some major cities some major hospitals opened e.g. saint Bartholomew’s in 1123 London.
Why, despite the growth of hospitals, was progress slow?
Many hospitals chose to treat the sick by using food, rest and prayer. The society was still extremely superstitious.
What was a positive change the Hippocrates had?
The Hippocratic Oath, meaning that doctors all had to take an oath that they were working for the benefit of their patients not for wealth.
