Making Sense of – serie

Making Sense of Critical Appraisal provides all the necessary information on how to read and understand medical research publications critically and to decide whether the contents of such publications are clinically useful in the care of patients.Illustrated throughout with medically relevant examples, this text covers all aspects of study design and clinical audit to give a clear framework for critical reading.

The ability to record an accurate and complete patient history, and to examine the patient appropriately in response to the history described, are fundamental skills that all student doctors need to acquire at an early stage in training. 'Making Sense of Clinical Examination of the Adult Patient' provides invaluable 'hands-on' guidance for medical students and junior doctors when presented with a new patient. Written from a very practical standpoint, Dr Douglas Model shares his extensive experience of teaching this subject. Real life scenarios are interspersed throughout the text. On reading 'Making Sense of Clinical Examination of the Adult Patient', the reader is given: practical advice on recording all aspects of a patient's history, including the present complaint, past medical history, and family history; and detailed guidance on performing an examination of each body system.

This is a practical and patient-complaint focused handbook, directed to motivate non-sleep experts and beginners in sleep medicine and technology. This book provides a basic review of the area of sleep, identifies some common patient presentations and illustrates the types of investigations that should be requested. With sleep and breathing problems being so common and affecting many other chronic clinical conditions, it is important that primary care and other general physicians as well as allied health practitioners have a greater appreciation of this area. This text is a valuable “go-to” handbook for the occasional “sleep” practitioner to refer to.Key Features:• Contains specially packaged with Specific Learning Objectives to each chapter followed by self-assessment questions, case scenarios, basic sleep monitoring techniques in detail with sample reports.• Provides direction to health care professionals who encounter patients with sleep and breathing disorders in their practice.• Uses algorithms and concept maps for dealing with specific symptoms.

This is a practical and patient-complaint focused handbook, directed to motivate non-sleep experts and beginners in sleep medicine and technology. This book provides a basic review of the area of sleep, identifies some common patient presentations and illustrates the types of investigations that should be requested. With sleep and breathing problems being so common and affecting many other chronic clinical conditions, it is important that primary care and other general physicians as well as allied health practitioners have a greater appreciation of this area. This text is a valuable “go-to” handbook for the occasional “sleep” practitioner to refer to.Key Features:• Contains specially packaged with Specific Learning Objectives to each chapter followed by self-assessment questions, case scenarios, basic sleep monitoring techniques in detail with sample reports.• Provides direction to health care professionals who encounter patients with sleep and breathing disorders in their practice.• Uses algorithms and concept maps for dealing with specific symptoms.

Echocardiography is one of the most useful and powerful diagnostic tools in the assessment of cardiac structure and function. It remains a rapidly expanding modality, with new techniques constantly developing and maturing. Building on the success of the second edition, the third edition of Making Sense of Echocardiography: A Hands-on Guide provides a timely overview for those learning echocardiography for the first time as well as an accessible handbook that experienced sonographers can refer to. The strong clinical focus and concentration on real-life scenarios make this book relevant in day-to-day practice. Key updates for this edition include the latest guidelines for the evaluation of diastolic function and pulmonary hypertension, and fully updated reference intervals throughout.Key Features• Covers not only the fundamentals of echocardiography including ultrasound physics, but also new technologies such as 3D echocardiography• Provides a comprehensive approach for the echo trainee and serves as a useful reference for more seasoned echocardiographers• Incorporates current guidelines and reference intervals throughout

Echocardiography is one of the most useful and powerful diagnostic tools in the assessment of cardiac structure and function. It remains a rapidly expanding modality, with new techniques constantly developing and maturing. Building on the success of the second edition, the third edition of Making Sense of Echocardiography: A Hands-on Guide provides a timely overview for those learning echocardiography for the first time as well as an accessible handbook that experienced sonographers can refer to. The strong clinical focus and concentration on real-life scenarios make this book relevant in day-to-day practice. Key updates for this edition include the latest guidelines for the evaluation of diastolic function and pulmonary hypertension, and fully updated reference intervals throughout.Key Features• Covers not only the fundamentals of echocardiography including ultrasound physics, but also new technologies such as 3D echocardiography• Provides a comprehensive approach for the echo trainee and serves as a useful reference for more seasoned echocardiographers• Incorporates current guidelines and reference intervals throughout

This book educates the reader on the cellular and neurophysiological aspects of Electroencephalography (EEG), alongside its technical and engineering principles. Providing a background on normal EEG, the content includes the clinical applications of EEG in epilepsies and other brain disorders in order to provide the reader with the necessary knowledge to use EEG in clinical practice.Aimed at those who in the earlier stages of using EEGs, this resource provides an effective overview and offers a key resource to anyone using EEGs.

This book educates the reader on the cellular and neurophysiological aspects of Electroencephalography (EEG), alongside its technical and engineering principles. Providing a background on normal EEG, the content includes the clinical applications of EEG in epilepsies and other brain disorders in order to provide the reader with the necessary knowledge to use EEG in clinical practice.Aimed at those who in the earlier stages of using EEGs, this resource provides an effective overview and offers a key resource to anyone using EEGs.

Most neurologists, fellows, and residents are familiar with adult EEG, but have not developed a similar understanding of pediatric EEG. There are fewer resources covering pediatric electroencephalography and existing books are either too comprehensive or lack the main details that differentiate the EEG in childhood. This accessible text includes the most recent classification and nomenclature published by the International League Against Epilepsy. It provides a practical and well illustrated text  of value to residents, fellows, and neurologists in need of an update on pediatric EEG.

Most neurologists, fellows, and residents are familiar with adult EEG, but have not developed a similar understanding of pediatric EEG. There are fewer resources covering pediatric electroencephalography and existing books are either too comprehensive or lack the main details that differentiate the EEG in childhood. This accessible text includes the most recent classification and nomenclature published by the International League Against Epilepsy. It provides a practical and well illustrated text  of value to residents, fellows, and neurologists in need of an update on pediatric EEG.

Interpreting an ECG correctly and working out what to do next can seem like a daunting task to the non-specialist, yet it is a skill that will be invaluable to any doctor, nurse or paramedic when evaluating the condition of a patient.Making Sense of the ECG has been written specifically with this in mind and, across multiple editions, has helped students and more experienced healthcare practitioners to identify and answer crucial questions, including:Are these abnormalities significant?How do I distinguish between VT and SVT?Does this patient have an acute coronary syndrome?How do I measure the QT interval?Should I refer this patient to a cardiologist?This popular, easy-to-read and easy-to-remember guide to the ECG as a tool for diagnosis and management has been fully updated in its sixth edition to reflect the latest guidelines, with new chapters added: ‘Reading an ECG Recording’ and 'Ten ECGs Not to Miss’.Key features: Real ECGs – with annotation throughout to highlight key features and new examples includedStrong clinical emphasis – for rapid reference in the emergency department, ward or outpatient setting with increased focus on urgency of action requiredEnhanced summaries and improved tip boxes – for speedy access to key info and advice when to act quickly or seek helpNew to this edition – reading an ECG recording from first principles added, ten ECG abnormalities with the most serious clinical consequences if missed or misdiagnosed flagged, more detail on ‘normal’ heart rates, cardiac activation and conduction, optimal electrode placement, updated guidance on acute coronary syndromes and cardiopulmonary resuscitation and improved relevance for pre-hospital carePair with Making Sense of the ECG: Cases for Self Assessment, Third Edition, for the complete ECG learning and revision package!

Reading an ECG correctly and working out what to do next is an invaluable skill for any doctor, nurse or paramedic when evaluating the condition of a patient.Making Sense of the ECG: Cases for Self Assessment helps students and more experienced healthcare practitioners to consolidate their knowledge of ECG interpretation through real-life scenarios. The patients' history, examination and initial investigations are presented along with questions on the ECG interpretation, allowing readers to assess their ability to interpret ECGs accurately, perform differential diagnosis and decide upon the most appropriate clinical management in each situation. Detailed explanatory answers respond to the questions posed, as well as providing practical clinical guidance and essential revision support.Key features:Convenient format – ideal for both rapid reference and the presentation of full 12-lead ECG traces throughoutStrong clinical emphasis – encourages you to put principles into practiceDetailed explanations – aid in-depth learningLearn, revise and test yourself – use regularly to refresh your knowledge and ideal during exam preparationUsed alongside the popular textbook Making Sense of the ECG: A Hands-on Guide 6E, or independently, as a vital tool to consolidate knowledge and prepare for clinical practice, this latest edition has been fully updated in line with the latest management guidelines and features a new appendix listing the key diagnosis in each ECG, making it easier to locate topics for revision.

Interpreting an ECG correctly and working out what to do next can seem like a daunting task to the non-specialist, yet it is a skill that will be invaluable to any doctor, nurse or paramedic when evaluating the condition of a patient.Making Sense of the ECG has been written specifically with this in mind and, across multiple editions, has helped students and more experienced healthcare practitioners to identify and answer crucial questions, including:Are these abnormalities significant?How do I distinguish between VT and SVT?Does this patient have an acute coronary syndrome?How do I measure the QT interval?Should I refer this patient to a cardiologist?This popular, easy-to-read and easy-to-remember guide to the ECG as a tool for diagnosis and management has been fully updated in its sixth edition to reflect the latest guidelines, with new chapters added: ‘Reading an ECG Recording’ and 'Ten ECGs Not to Miss’.Key features: Real ECGs – with annotation throughout to highlight key features and new examples includedStrong clinical emphasis – for rapid reference in the emergency department, ward or outpatient setting with increased focus on urgency of action requiredEnhanced summaries and improved tip boxes – for speedy access to key info and advice when to act quickly or seek helpNew to this edition – reading an ECG recording from first principles added, ten ECG abnormalities with the most serious clinical consequences if missed or misdiagnosed flagged, more detail on ‘normal’ heart rates, cardiac activation and conduction, optimal electrode placement, updated guidance on acute coronary syndromes and cardiopulmonary resuscitation and improved relevance for pre-hospital carePair with Making Sense of the ECG: Cases for Self Assessment, Third Edition, for the complete ECG learning and revision package!

Reading an ECG correctly and working out what to do next is an invaluable skill for any doctor, nurse or paramedic when evaluating the condition of a patient.Making Sense of the ECG: Cases for Self Assessment helps students and more experienced healthcare practitioners to consolidate their knowledge of ECG interpretation through real-life scenarios. The patients' history, examination and initial investigations are presented along with questions on the ECG interpretation, allowing readers to assess their ability to interpret ECGs accurately, perform differential diagnosis and decide upon the most appropriate clinical management in each situation. Detailed explanatory answers respond to the questions posed, as well as providing practical clinical guidance and essential revision support.Key features:Convenient format – ideal for both rapid reference and the presentation of full 12-lead ECG traces throughoutStrong clinical emphasis – encourages you to put principles into practiceDetailed explanations – aid in-depth learningLearn, revise and test yourself – use regularly to refresh your knowledge and ideal during exam preparationUsed alongside the popular textbook Making Sense of the ECG: A Hands-on Guide 6E, or independently, as a vital tool to consolidate knowledge and prepare for clinical practice, this latest edition has been fully updated in line with the latest management guidelines and features a new appendix listing the key diagnosis in each ECG, making it easier to locate topics for revision.

Respiratory problems are the most common cause of acute admission to hospital. A variety of diagnostic investigations are required, both for acute and clinic assessment. Making Sense of Lung Function Tests, Second Edition familiarises both trainees and more experienced clinicians with the interpretation of a range of respiratory parameters. It places lung function in a clinical context using real-life examples and provides invaluable hands-on guidance.For this second edition Consultant Respiratory Physician Jonathan Dakin and Consultant Anaesthetist Elena Kourteli are joined by Mark Mottershaw, Chief Respiratory Physiologist from Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth, all contributing a broad range of expertise and perspectives. Together they have updated the book throughout and added new chapters including an algorithm for interpretation of pulmonary function tests, exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing.The text offers a clear explanation of the concepts which students find difficult, including: The basis of obstructive and restrictive defects Pattern recognition of the flow volume loop Differences between TLCO and KCO Assessment of oxygenation using PO2 and SO2 The basis of Type 1 and type 2 respiratory failure Distinguishing respiratory and metabolic acidosis The relationship between sleep and respiratory failureThe information is presented in an accessible way, suitable for those seeking a basic grounding in spirometry or blood gases, but also sufficiently comprehensive for readers completing specialist training in general or respiratory medicine.

Interpreting the fluid requirements of a patient and working out what to do next can seem like a daunting task for the non-specialist, yet it is a skill that any doctor, nurse or paramedic needs to be fully appraised of and comfortable with.Making Sense of Fluids and Electrolytes has been written specifically with this in mind, and will help the student and more experienced practitioner working across a variety of healthcare settings to understand why fluid imbalance in a patient may occur, to assess quickly a patient's fluid needs through a thorough clinical assessment and to develop an effective management plan. Reflecting the latest guidelines, this practical, easy-to-read and easy-to remember guide will be an invaluable tool to aid speedy and appropriate management in emergency situations, on the ward and in the clinic.

This book provides candidates with an easy-to-use exam-oriented text that covers most aspects of critical appraisal. It presents concepts in a user-friendly format, particularly for the benefit of those who find epidemiological and statistical concepts rather migraine-inducing.

This book makes sense of complex topics by distilling them to basic concepts. It provides normal physiology integrated with indications for and evaluation of disease states. With a fresh clinical approach, it helps answer reoccurring questions.

When a patient presents to the emergency department, in the GP practice, or in the outpatient clinic with a range of clinical signs, the chest x-ray is one of the most valuable diagnostic tools available to the attending physician. Accurate interpretation and understanding of the chest x-ray is therefore a crucial skill that all medical students and junior doctors must acquire to formulate quickly an appropriate management plan. Making Sense of the Chest X-ray is here to help.The second edition of this well-received pocket guide remains the perfect introduction to the subject. Written from a problem-oriented approach, the author shares his extensive experience of teaching this subject, with "real life" scenarios interspersed throughout the text. Making Sense of the Chest X-ray offers:• Advice on when to seek additional/expert opinion• Suggestions on how to deal with particularly difficult areas• An emphasis on the link between radiographic appearance and clinical finding

Are you new to clinical teaching and looking for practical advice? Would you like to challenge and improve your current teaching style? Do you want to direct change in teaching practice within a department or institution?If your answer to any of the above is yes, then Making Sense of Clinical Teaching is the resource for you. It offers the novice and more experienced teacher concise advice in how to pinpoint and build upon existing strengths, address areas where confidence is lacking, develop mentoring skills, challenge existing practice, and influence strategic developments. Making Sense of Clinical Teaching will enable you to:Add new skills to your teaching repertoireStimulate your creative thinkingChallenge current practice and facilitate the development of new strategiesImprove your coaching and mentoring skills and ultimately meet the needs of your students and improve their learning experience

Making Sense of the ECG: Cases for Self-Assessment presents everything you need to assess your ability to interpret ECGs accurately, perform differential diagnosis, and decide upon the most appropriate clinical management in each situation. The patients' history, examination and initial investigations are presented along with questions on the ECG interpretation. Detailed explanatory answers ensure this book solves your queries as well as providing practical guidance and essential revision.Use alongside the popular companion Making Sense of the ECG 4E,or independently, as a vital tool to consolidate your knowledge and prepare yourself for future clinical practice.

Respiratory problems are the most common cause of acute admission to hospital. A variety of diagnostic investigations are required, both for acute and clinic assessment. Making Sense of Lung Function Tests, Second Edition familiarises both trainees and more experienced clinicians with the interpretation of a range of respiratory parameters. It places lung function in a clinical context using real-life examples and provides invaluable hands-on guidance.For this second edition Consultant Respiratory Physician Jonathan Dakin and Consultant Anaesthetist Elena Kourteli are joined by Mark Mottershaw, Chief Respiratory Physiologist from Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth, all contributing a broad range of expertise and perspectives. Together they have updated the book throughout and added new chapters including an algorithm for interpretation of pulmonary function tests, exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing.The text offers a clear explanation of the concepts which students find difficult, including: The basis of obstructive and restrictive defects Pattern recognition of the flow volume loop Differences between TLCO and KCO Assessment of oxygenation using PO2 and SO2 The basis of Type 1 and type 2 respiratory failure Distinguishing respiratory and metabolic acidosis The relationship between sleep and respiratory failureThe information is presented in an accessible way, suitable for those seeking a basic grounding in spirometry or blood gases, but also sufficiently comprehensive for readers completing specialist training in general or respiratory medicine.

Interpreting the fluid requirements of a patient and working out what to do next can seem like a daunting task for the non-specialist, yet it is a skill that any doctor, nurse or paramedic needs to be fully appraised of and comfortable with.Making Sense of Fluids and Electrolytes has been written specifically with this in mind, and will help the student and more experienced practitioner working across a variety of healthcare settings to understand why fluid imbalance in a patient may occur, to assess quickly a patient's fluid needs through a thorough clinical assessment and to develop an effective management plan. Reflecting the latest guidelines, this practical, easy-to-read and easy-to remember guide will be an invaluable tool to aid speedy and appropriate management in emergency situations, on the ward and in the clinic.