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Berry & Kohn's Introduction to Operating Room Technique
MIEM, evaluation of trauma to the abdomen has included only visual examination for expansion and abdominal lavage. The authors state, "Because abdominal lavage is a routine part of our resuscitative and diagnostic effort, the mortality and morbidity related to delay in diagnosis are effectively removed." Of particular interest to operating room nurses is a chapter that includes the organization of a trauma operating room. The necessary instrument sets and their contents are listed, and the physical setup of the room, with all needed equipment, is explained. An update of sutures and drains is also provided. A large portion of this manual consists of trauma algorithms, or decision-tree charts, which are the procedures for solving a problem. In each of these modules a question is asked, such as, "Is there a rupture in the abdominal aorta?" The question is followed by a series of actions to take dependent on the answer. The appendix contains indications for and techniques of carrying out various emergency procedures, such as endotracheal intubation and burr holes. Large diagrams with labeled anatomy accompany the explanations of these procedures. The Shock Trauma Manual is a guide for physicians who provide emergency resuscitation and initial treatment to multiple trauma patients. However, it is written in a concise and informative manner that also makes it of interest to nurses working in the trauma field. This systematic approach to caring for the trauma victim provides essential information for any institution receiving these patients. Catherine McCaig, RN Washington, DC
Berry 81 Kohn's Introduction to Operating Room Technique, 5th ed. Atkinson, Lucy Jo; Kohn, Mary Louise. McGraw-Hill Book Co, 1221 Ave of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, 1978, 558 pp, $13.95 paperback. As a building requires a strong foundation, the OR nurse requires a strong knowledge base as a foundation for practice. For the novice nurse, this text offers information necessary for building a practice in OR nursing. The expanded fifth edition meets the standards established by previous editions. It has been updated and revised to be compatible
734
with current AORN standards of practice. Chapters devoted to Microsurgery and Transplantation and Replantation demonstrate the authors' efforts to include advancements since the 1972 edition. The result is a comprehensive text that encompasses basic tenets as well as specific considerations for specialty areas in the OR. The structure of the book is similar to the previous edition. The first section addresses fundamentals that apply to perioperative nursing practice regardless of the setting. The second section focuses on considerations specific to various surgical procedures. Throughout the text the authors use diagrams, illustrations, and tables. The format has been changed to allow additions and to establish more logical chapter placement. An example is the chapter on Anesthesia. In the fourth edition, this subject was discussed after the basics and specialty areas. It is now in conjunction with the basics and prior to the specific surgical material. This format enables a more thorough understanding of concepts that apply to all patients and aids in transferring those concepts to specific circumstances. Another beneficial change is the listing of subtopics under chapter headings in the table of contents. Although the index is extensive, this acquaints the reader with exact chapter contents at a glance. Although the text can stand alone as a resource, there is a comprehensive bibliography provided for each chapter. The scope of the book goes beyond technical skills. The initial chapters address concepts for the learner and the role of various team members. The third chapter, "The Patient: The Reason for Your Existence," focuses on the patient as an individual with unique needs. "The surgical patient faces a grave threat to the basic needs of a human being." Basic needs and reactions to illness and stress are identified and discussed, allowing the reader to gain an understanding of how to deal with patients' psychosocial needs. Throughout the book, the authors convey the importance of individualized care. Additional basic topics include asepsis, sterilization, scrubbing, gowning, gloving, positioning, draping, and legal considerations. As in previous editions, there is extensive infor-
AORN Journal, October 1979, Vol30, No 4
mation on wound healing, methods of hemostasis, and closure materials. Suture materials and indications for specific use are presented in a clear, concise manner that should assist the new learner. Content dealing with operative procedures introduces the reader to the historical background and specific considerations for surgical interventions. Depending on the level of the new learner, a supplemental text may be needed. This text will be a welcome addition to every OR suite, hospital, and nursing school library. It is a valuable resource for orientation programs, students, and those in practice. Two OR nurses, one new and one with experience, also critiqued this text. One commented it “is very useful in providing the whys and hows for the initial learning phase of an RN entering the OR staff.” The other noted “a theoretical framework is interwoven with the presentation of technical skills so the student learns not only how. . . but why.” Both critiques acknowledge that the authors have accomplished their goal. Particularly when used with the sixth edition of Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery (CV Mosby Co, 1978), this text provides the new learner the comprehensive information to base a practice in the OR. Carol Tyler, RN Evanston, 111
Evaluation of Nursing Competence. Schneider, Harriet L. Little, Brown and Co, 34 Beacon St, Boston, Mass 021 1 4 , 1 9 7 9 , 1 5 5 ~ ~ $6.95. Nurses who, as teachers or supervisors, have to evaluate the nursing competence of others will find this book a helpful text. There are chapters on the contributions to assessment of nursing competence, ways to evaluate competency, the use of films, different kinds of testing methods, use of direct observation, use of videotape recordings, written simulations, and simulated clinical laboratories. The book provides input into the what, why, who, when, and how of evaluating nursing competency. There are many useful examples and forms that help to clarify the meaning of the text. References conclude each chapter. Every professional nurse evaluates care
and, directly or indirectly, evaluates the competency of those who give it. This book will help you to do it more expertly, fairly, and professionally. Sister Kime, RHSJ, RN, MEd Cornwall, Ontario
Using Crisis Intervention Wisely. Nursing 79 Books. lntermed Communications, Inc, 132 Welsh Rd, Horsham, Pa. 19044, 1979, 192 pp, $8.95. This new volume in the Nursing Skillbook series explains the nurs’e’s role in crisis intervention. Similar in format to others in the series, this book provides the nurse with adequate information to recognize people in crisis and apply appropriate intervention techniques. It tells what to do and say and what not to do or say. Examples, case histories, and skill checks are helpful. Nine chapters are devoted to helping the patient and his family iii various crisis situations. Material includes how to help patients overcome a distorted body image, support survivors of unexpected death, deal with confused patients, recognize and protect suicide patients, help victims of abuse, comfort and care for rape victirns, and manage the alcohol or drug abuser. An important section deals with helping health care professionals in crisis. Knowing how to cope with professional burnout and being able to recognize and deal with crises on the unit is essential for the practicing nurse. Charts, diagrams, pictures, and suggested references add to the interest and value of this book. It deserves a place in every unit and institutional library. Sister Ksne, RHSJ, RN, MEd Cornwall, Ontario
AORN Journal, October 1979, Vol30, No 4
735
Berry 81 Kohn's Introduction to Operating Room Technique, 5th ed. Atkinson, Lucy Jo; Kohn, Mary Louise. McGraw-Hill Book Co, 1221 Ave of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, 1978, 558 pp, $13.95 paperback. As a building requires a strong foundation, the OR nurse requires a strong knowledge base as a foundation for practice. For the novice nurse, this text offers information necessary for building a practice in OR nursing. The expanded fifth edition meets the standards established by previous editions. It has been updated and revised to be compatible
734
with current AORN standards of practice. Chapters devoted to Microsurgery and Transplantation and Replantation demonstrate the authors' efforts to include advancements since the 1972 edition. The result is a comprehensive text that encompasses basic tenets as well as specific considerations for specialty areas in the OR. The structure of the book is similar to the previous edition. The first section addresses fundamentals that apply to perioperative nursing practice regardless of the setting. The second section focuses on considerations specific to various surgical procedures. Throughout the text the authors use diagrams, illustrations, and tables. The format has been changed to allow additions and to establish more logical chapter placement. An example is the chapter on Anesthesia. In the fourth edition, this subject was discussed after the basics and specialty areas. It is now in conjunction with the basics and prior to the specific surgical material. This format enables a more thorough understanding of concepts that apply to all patients and aids in transferring those concepts to specific circumstances. Another beneficial change is the listing of subtopics under chapter headings in the table of contents. Although the index is extensive, this acquaints the reader with exact chapter contents at a glance. Although the text can stand alone as a resource, there is a comprehensive bibliography provided for each chapter. The scope of the book goes beyond technical skills. The initial chapters address concepts for the learner and the role of various team members. The third chapter, "The Patient: The Reason for Your Existence," focuses on the patient as an individual with unique needs. "The surgical patient faces a grave threat to the basic needs of a human being." Basic needs and reactions to illness and stress are identified and discussed, allowing the reader to gain an understanding of how to deal with patients' psychosocial needs. Throughout the book, the authors convey the importance of individualized care. Additional basic topics include asepsis, sterilization, scrubbing, gowning, gloving, positioning, draping, and legal considerations. As in previous editions, there is extensive infor-
AORN Journal, October 1979, Vol30, No 4
mation on wound healing, methods of hemostasis, and closure materials. Suture materials and indications for specific use are presented in a clear, concise manner that should assist the new learner. Content dealing with operative procedures introduces the reader to the historical background and specific considerations for surgical interventions. Depending on the level of the new learner, a supplemental text may be needed. This text will be a welcome addition to every OR suite, hospital, and nursing school library. It is a valuable resource for orientation programs, students, and those in practice. Two OR nurses, one new and one with experience, also critiqued this text. One commented it “is very useful in providing the whys and hows for the initial learning phase of an RN entering the OR staff.” The other noted “a theoretical framework is interwoven with the presentation of technical skills so the student learns not only how. . . but why.” Both critiques acknowledge that the authors have accomplished their goal. Particularly when used with the sixth edition of Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery (CV Mosby Co, 1978), this text provides the new learner the comprehensive information to base a practice in the OR. Carol Tyler, RN Evanston, 111
Evaluation of Nursing Competence. Schneider, Harriet L. Little, Brown and Co, 34 Beacon St, Boston, Mass 021 1 4 , 1 9 7 9 , 1 5 5 ~ ~ $6.95. Nurses who, as teachers or supervisors, have to evaluate the nursing competence of others will find this book a helpful text. There are chapters on the contributions to assessment of nursing competence, ways to evaluate competency, the use of films, different kinds of testing methods, use of direct observation, use of videotape recordings, written simulations, and simulated clinical laboratories. The book provides input into the what, why, who, when, and how of evaluating nursing competency. There are many useful examples and forms that help to clarify the meaning of the text. References conclude each chapter. Every professional nurse evaluates care
and, directly or indirectly, evaluates the competency of those who give it. This book will help you to do it more expertly, fairly, and professionally. Sister Kime, RHSJ, RN, MEd Cornwall, Ontario
Using Crisis Intervention Wisely. Nursing 79 Books. lntermed Communications, Inc, 132 Welsh Rd, Horsham, Pa. 19044, 1979, 192 pp, $8.95. This new volume in the Nursing Skillbook series explains the nurs’e’s role in crisis intervention. Similar in format to others in the series, this book provides the nurse with adequate information to recognize people in crisis and apply appropriate intervention techniques. It tells what to do and say and what not to do or say. Examples, case histories, and skill checks are helpful. Nine chapters are devoted to helping the patient and his family iii various crisis situations. Material includes how to help patients overcome a distorted body image, support survivors of unexpected death, deal with confused patients, recognize and protect suicide patients, help victims of abuse, comfort and care for rape victirns, and manage the alcohol or drug abuser. An important section deals with helping health care professionals in crisis. Knowing how to cope with professional burnout and being able to recognize and deal with crises on the unit is essential for the practicing nurse. Charts, diagrams, pictures, and suggested references add to the interest and value of this book. It deserves a place in every unit and institutional library. Sister Ksne, RHSJ, RN, MEd Cornwall, Ontario
AORN Journal, October 1979, Vol30, No 4
735