This is the seventh edition of a popular concise but comprehensive overview of the essentials of perioperative practice.

It is intended as a reference of all aspects of perioperative management in an easily accessible pocket format, an objective it achieves.

The book can provide knowledge assistance to any perioperative practitioner in a busy clinical situation. However, it is most valuable to anesthesia trainees at all levels -- medical students, residents, fellows, and nurse anesthetists. The editors have called on the expertise of wide range of specialists to contribute to this book.

The three parts of the book cover an array of topics in preoperative evaluation, anesthesia administration, and perioperative care. The topic selection is comprehensive, covering the entire perioperative period. The chapters are well written in a concise outline layout with highlighted key points, allowing for easy accessibility while providing considerable depth of information. The discussions of the anatomy and physiology at the foundation of anesthesia practice are helpful. Excellent illustrations complement the text and are especially valuable in areas such as monitoring and regional anesthesia.

Overall, this is an excellent pocket reference on all aspects of perioperative practice. The expansion of medical knowledge dictates the need for new editions. This is an essential tool for the professional development of any anesthesia practitioner.

Weighted Numerical Score: 94 - 4 Stars!