The Hippocratic Oath

• The Hippocratic Oath is an oath taken by a new physician whereby he swears to maintain the code of ethics of the medical profession.
• The original Hippocratic Oath is considered to have been written by the Father of western medicine, Hippocrates (c.460-c.370 BCE), and is still used today in the graduation ceremony of medical schools.

The Text of the Hippocratic Oath

• • “I will use my skill to help the sick to the best of my ability and judgement.
    I will not harm or wrong any person by it.
  • I will not give a fatal draught to anyone if I am asked, neither will I suggest such a thing.
  • I will be chaste and religious in my life and in my practice.
  • Whenever I enter a house, I will go to help the sick and not with the intention of doing anyone injury or harm.
    I will not abuse my position to indulge in sexual relations with women or men, be they masters or slaves.
  • Whatever I see or hear, whether professionally or privately, I will keep secret and tell to no-one.
  • If I observe this sacred oath, and do not violate it, may I prosper in both my life and my profession,
    earning good repute among all men.
    If, however, I transgress and forswear this oath, may my lot be otherwise.
  • I will not cut, even for the stone, but I will leave such procedures to the practitioners of that craft.”