Book Review

Paramedics may be forgiven for having their attention drawn to the subheading of this book and find themselves stirred into a well-versed mantra on the benefits of prescribing for paramedics. But for those of you who are able to maintain optical focus, this text is concerned with physical examination procedures.

Positioned as a supplementary text or revision aid for those students and clinicians who have already undertaken prior education and training in anatomy and physiology, patient assessment and pathophysiology, I would agree this most appropriately describes its effective use. A further point of note for the reader is that the content only relates to the assessment of adult patients, so more specialist patient groups such as paediatrics and pregnant women require alternative reading.

The content is presented in a logical manner, addressing different body systems in turn. The now ubiquitous case studies and reflections on practice are included at the end of each chapter and the authors do a commendable job of referencing their material (often overlooked in some clinical texts). A brief rationale for said procedures is also offered but relies heavily on the reader's underpinning knowledge given the lack of depth or associated discussion afforded.