A number of the ‘ABC’ book series have been reviewed in this section since the Journal of Paramedic Practice was first published, but none have addressed such a challenging and emotive subject such as this. No argument over the subject matter though, as it regrettably reflects the nature of an increasing number of incidents paramedics will be asked to attend.
An impressive array of contributors immediately provide some gravitas to this text, as does the revelation that domestic and sexual violence is more prevalent than diabetes or inflammatory bowel conditions—that made me pause for thought. The obvious experience and scope of practice of those who have shaped the content deliver a concise, yet informative, commentary on a difficult area for most people to consider, let alone manage patients who have been subjected to such violence.
There is plenty of further reading suggested, case studies help to contextualise the content, but the inclusion of witness statements and the occasional testimony from victims ensure the authors’ reinforce the subject matter emphatically.
The text is cleverly interspersed with flow charts as well as illustrations and photographs appropriate to the text. The appendices contain additional useful information and chapter summaries help identify the salient points well. Basic stuff but effective. Practical tips for the clinician are documented in tandem with the more generic theory, all of which helps to provide the reader with a broad, if not in depth, understanding of this challenging subject area. The hallmark of the ‘ABC’ series.
It could never be classified as a ‘light’ read but it is certainly relevant to contemporary paramedic practice. If there needs to be a more prominent place for this subject in health care curricula, I suspect this book will be a well-thumbed volume.
‘It could never be classified as a ‘light’ read, but it is certainly relevant to contemporary paramedic practice’