Griffith's 5-Minute Clinical Consult
Mark R. Dambro, ed. 1,338 pages. Philadelphia: WB Saunders. $59.95. ISBN: 07817-3226-3.
With 331 contributing authors, this well-referenced book provides an array of information in a concise format. The table of contents is divided into expanded topics and short topics and is followed by a second table of contents separated by system. The topics are listed alphabetically. Coupled with an extensive index as well as an ICD-9-CM index, the information is accessible.
The Expanded Topic format provides a relatively extensive presentation of facts, including but not limited to a description of the physiologic dysfunction, signs, symptoms, causes, and diagnosis, which is subdivided into differential diagnosis, laboratory and special tests; imaging; and diagnostic procedures. Treatment includes general and surgical measures, activity, diet, and patient education. Medications include drugs of choice as well as alternative drugs and are listed with generic as well as trade names. Follow-up consists of patient monitoring, prevention/avoidance, possible complications, and expected course/prognosis. The miscellaneous section includes ICD-9-CM codes, references, and Internet references. Each Expanded Topic covers 2 pages. Examples of Expanded Topics include: Raynaud phenomenon, pressure ulcer, dementia, hiccups, cardiac tamponade, fragile X syndrome, and colorectal malignancy.
The Short Topic format includes a brief description, synonyms, causes, treatment and ICD-9-CM codes. Short Topics are listed 9 to a page; examples are pellagra, Goodpasture syndrome, atrial flutter, retinal vein occlusion, and Korsakoff psychosis.
A recent Newsweek article (Noonan D. Wiring the new docs. Newsweek. 2002;June 24:59-62) about medical students stated: the "very popular"5-Minute Clinical Consult is "packed with information about symptoms, diagnoses and treatment options". This book is an invaluable resource for the advanced practice nurse functioning in either a primary or tertiary care environment. The amount of information on a comprehensive inventory of topics presented in an easily accessible format makes this book at bargain at $60.