Saunders Manual of Critical Care

James A. Kruse, Mitchell P. Fink, Richard W. Carlson; Philadelphia, London; 2003; 850 pgs.

Saunders Manual of Critical Care provides a quick and easy, yet comprehensive, review of common and not so common critical care problems, disorders, pharmacology, procedures, and monitoring techniques.

Although the authors have described their intent as providing a resource for intensivists and other acute care practitioners, it is a valuable resource for advance practice nursing students as well as the nurse practitioner and clinical nurse specialist in practice. Acute and critical care nurse educators will also find this resource helpful and informative. Nurse practitioners will find the book practical and will want to keep it easily accessible.

The manual provides a concise and up-to-date review of each topic; dividing each disorder section into risk factors, pathophysiology, laboratory, and clinical findings as well as treatment options. This approach allows a rapid review of the problem and guidance in patient management. The book also includes diagnostic tips and a step-by-step approach to therapy to guide the practitioner. The monitoring section covers topics such as nutritional assessment, hemodynamic monitoring, oxygen transport, blood gas analysis, and intracranial pressure monitoring. The section on procedures features a comprehensive description of the procedure, such as endotracheal intubation and central line placement, describes how to perform the procedure, and includes detailed pictures to assist the practitioner. There is also a section on respiratory care and mechanical ventilation that clinicians will find valuable in managing their patients.

The Saunders Manual of Critical Care is concise and a rapid review of critical care topics. Whatever the type of critical care unit, clinicians will find this manual to be a valuable and easy to use resource.