Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Medical Journal, Issue 6/2009, pp. 218–219

Doc’s Coach – Practical Skills for Hospitals and Clinics.
M. Hofer, 1st edition, Didamed Verlag Düsseldorf 2008
192 pages, 1,041 figures, 14 tables, 29.90 euros
ISBN 978-3-938103-30-2

In medical education and continuing education, the teaching of practical skills is often inadequate. The books by Düsseldorf-based physician Dr. Matthias Hofer are distinguished by their excellent didactic approach and their close connection to the day-to-day practice of medical students and young resident physicians. His latest large-format medical “picture book” makes it easier—especially for beginners—to develop the practical, technical (hands-on) skills needed when working with patients, a fundamental prerequisite for successful treatment.

The book covers “Sterility in Everyday Work” (surgical hand disinfection, putting on gloves and gowns), “Technical Equipment” (including three-way stopcocks, IVs), “Measurement Techniques” (e.g., blood pressure, central venous pressure, ECG leads), “Puncture Techniques” (including blood glucose testing, blood gas analysis, blood collection, and injection techniques), “Probes, Catheters, and Drains,” and “Complex Techniques” (e.g., intubation and resuscitation). The book not only demonstrates the techniques but also provides brief notes on indications, preparations, and potential complications and contraindications. Errors and strategies for avoiding them are highlighted. Clear diagrams and sketches round out the educational approach and facilitate understanding.

The image series in this practical guide are intended for medical students on clinical rotations and in their internship year, for resident physicians in all specialties during their first few years, and for nursing staff, particularly in the surgical, intensive care, and anesthesia departments—and, incidentally, are ideal for visual learners.

Prof. H.H. Büttner, Wismar