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process, putting the whole, often misunderstood issue of theories, into a comprehensible and practical contrxt. An interesting extension of the book is the discussion of theories as they relate to the nurse’s own needs, beliefs and values and how these relate to patient care. Each chapter ends with a simple exercise which enables the reader to put theory into practice and these are accompanied by helpful notes from the author. The references appear at the end of each chapter and are easily accessible to nurses within range of training establishments. Overall, I found this a most readable and undaunting text which would be most suitable for nurses just being introduced to the application of nursing theory to practice.

SALLY KENDALL BSc( Hons) RGN RHV

Medical Investigations David Thompson & Gerald Bowman Bailliere Tindall 1985 115 pp E2.95

This is a useful, well written and easily read little book; the contents are set out clearly and there is a good index. The book opens with the legal, moral and ethical implications involved in patient investi- gations and with a chapter giving a broad outline of the nurse’s role. It is then divided into a series of biological systems and related investigations. A brief outline of the system and its function is given, followed by a clear explanation of each investigation and the specific role of the nurse. A useful addition is suggested examples of simple explanations, suitable for patients, to allay their fears. The information given is accurate and includes the newer current mvestigations. If it lacks anything, it is a few useful diagrams and pictures. It is cheap, comprehensive, and could easily be slipped into the nurse’s pocket. It is a handy book to have on the ward and in the nurse’s library and should appeal to all grades of nurses, especially learners.

S M HALL SRN SCM RCNT RN7

The Critically Ilk Nursing Assessment Series 7 Billie C Meador Quest Meridien 1985 164 pp illus E17.45

This small, paperback book contains useful infor- mation about assessment of the critically ill patient.

Although the distinction between medicine and nursing is less distinct in critical care situations, the book, written for nurses, is rather medically orientated.

The information is clearly and concisely presented. Each chapter is sub-divided into a number of smaller sections each of which has a clear heading. The few black and white diagrams are easily interpreted and well labelled. Several tables are included; some of these are rather too detailed.

Each chapter is preceded by learning objectives and followed by a quiz which tests the reader’s learning. The answers follow immediately which tempts the reader to cheat rather than read the information again if the answer is not apparent to him. At the end of the book are 50 multiple choice questions. Answers are supplied. No references are used but a list of selected readings from books and periodicals is included. These are exclusively American publications.

Although this book would be valuable to nurses commencing a period of critical care nursing, the cost is very high considering its size, binding and limited content. It would, however, have the advantage of being easily carried, perhaps in a large pocket.

MAVIS CUNNINGHAM RGN R.NT RCNT DN( London)

Fundamentals of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Volume 2: Gynaecology 4th Edition Derek Llewellyn-Jones Faber 1986 3 15 pp illus kg.95

As in earlier editions, this is an extremely well written volume which is and always has been, a very popular book in the nursing library; it is used by all grades of staff, from consultant down to student nurse and though aimed at medical students I feel it would be useful to have at ward level on a gynaecological ward.

This book is very easy to read and interest is enhanced by the excellent illustrations throughout. The positioning of the figures is very well thought out, though I feel the black and white photographs would have much more impact had they been produced in colour.

It is extremely well indexed and referenced and the price is very reasonable. I have always and will continue to recommend it to student nurses.

M A HORTON SRN DA’( PT 1) RjVT( CER 7 ED)