AINS Anesthesiology, Critical Care Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Pain Management 2009;1:67

Step by Step: In Words and Pictures

In medical school and during postgraduate medical training, the quality of practical, clinically oriented training is often criticized. This book provides detailed, step-by-step descriptions of practical procedures, accompanied by text and illustrations. The author draws on extensive visual material that documents the procedures in clinical settings.

High-quality diagrams and sketches round out the educational approach and facilitate understanding. Potential pitfalls associated with individual techniques are highlighted, and strategies for avoiding them are provided. The book is not purely descriptive; it also explains the underlying physiological mechanisms. The selection of practical skills appears to be highly practice-oriented. The selection is of particular interest to anesthesiologists and intensive care physicians. Procedures important to every medical specialty—such as the proper placement of ECG electrodes for various leads or the insertion of a peripheral venous catheter—are described in detail. Equally detailed coverage is provided for the highly specialized bougie tracheotomy, the placement of central venous catheters, and the placement of a surgical chest drain.

Conclusion

This book is a helpful resource for anyone who needs or wants to teach practical skills!