William T. Blows was formerly a lecturer at City University of London, UK where he taught biology to nurses.
Accurate clinical observations are fundamental to competent and safe healthcare practice. The Biological Basis of Clinical Observations gives readers the understanding needed to perform clinical observations accurately, make accurate judgements about the patient´s condition and make accurate decisions concerning patient care.
This useful textbook integrates clear explanations of the techniques involved in making clinical observations, alongside the biological knowledge which gives them meaning. For each topic, it explains the pathological basis for variations in observed results, focusing on relevant anatomy and physiology, genetics and pharmacology, and the basic principles of care. In addition to new chapters on blood tests and pregnancy, the text has been updated throughout. It now incorporates increased coverage of paediatrics, movement and the musculo-skeletal system, the lymphatic system, pregnancy, diabetes, homeostasis and infection, among other areas.
Topics discussed include:
- temperature
- cardiovascular observations
- respiratory observations
- urinary and bowel observations
- neurological observations
- nutrition
- fluid balance
- skin
- drug side effects, interactions and allergies.
The Biological Basis of Clinical Observations is a unique text which integrates explanations of essential procedures with the biological knowledge that underpins practice. It is essential reading for all nursing and health students preparing for clinical practice.
Chapter 1. Temperature
Chapter 2. Cardiovascular observations (I): the pulse and electrocardiogram (ECG)
Chapter 3. Cardiovascular observations (II): blood pressure
Chapter 4. Cardiovascular observations (III): Blood tests
Chapter 5. Respiratory observations
Chapter 6. Fluid Balance
Chapter 7. Nutrition
Chapter 8. Elimination (I): urinary observations
Chapter 9. Elimination (II): digestive observations
Chapter 10. Skin
Chapter 11. Neurological observations (I): consciousness
Chapter 12. Pain
Chapter 13. Neurological observations (II): eyes
Chapter 14. Neurological observations (IV): movement
Chapter 15. Drug side effects, interactions and allergies
Chapter 16. Physiological changes occurring in pregnancy
This text gives readers the understanding needed to perform clinical observations accurately, make accurate judgements about the patient´s condition and make accurate decisions concerning patient care. It integrates clear explanations of the techniques involved in making clinical observations, alongside the biological knowledge which gives them meaning. For each topic, it explains the pathological basis for variations in observed results, focusing on relevant anatomy and physiology, genetics and pharmacology and the basic principles of care. It is essential reading for all nursing and health students preparing for clinical practice.
