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Book Review
Laboratory and diagnostic tests: A pocket guide
Mary Ellen McMorrow & Louise Malarkey
ISBN: 0-721673-03-1 380 pages Harcourt Brace Australia
Miriam Dayhew
Senior Nurse Manager, Greater Murray Health Service, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, NSW
The rapid development of diagnostic tools has left many nurses with limited knowledge about an area of practice which is growing and impacting significantly on the daily nursing care of most patients. To be able to support the investigative phase of a patient's treatment with well-informed nursing management would provide for improved patient care and better liaison across professional disciplines.
As described in the preface, this is a quick reference text. Contents include medical imaging, biochemistry, histopathology, electrophysiology, diagnostic routines such as colposcopy and bronchoscopy and more. The book provides an overview of diagnostic tools for nurses who often prepare patients for procedures with little knowledge of what information is being sought, and what implications that information might have for patient care.
Each test is described under a series of headings. The tests are identified, with synonyms provided, and what is being analysed is distinguished. The purpose of the test is outlined and related tests are linked. The process of the procedure is discussed and possible findings listed. Further information is given on possible interferences with the procedures and the adverse outcomes these might cause.
The most helpful sections are those which detail the nursing care implications of the tests. These are divided into pre-test, during-test and post-test phases. This information can be directly translated into the care plan for the patient and allow for the formulation of coordinated care plans that integrate diagnosis and treatment with minimal disorder and confusion. The information is provided in an easy-to-read format. The setting is based on an alphabetical listing of tests and procedures. The setting of the pages allows colour highlight of topics, and emphasis on quality control points identifies risks of poor preparation and test technique. The information is presented succinctly, but with enough detail to allow a full appreciation of the procedure and the possible results.
Normal range of values is included for quick reference and prominence is given to complication alerts that flag signs and symptoms of complications as they arise.
All in all, a very useful publication that should support the provision of holistic care and permit nurses to develop care plans which reflect a greater appreciation of diagnostic tools and their requirements.
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