This is another in the popular ‘ABC’ range of medical books. There is no disputing the central role which patient safety occupies within healthcare and a major plus with this offering is that it encompasses both primary and secondary care. The editors acknowledge that only the basic principles are covered here but as is consistent with other books in the ‘ABC’ series, this is effectively done.
Written with a UK focus, content and contributors from overseas is incorporated and this only serves to supplement an informative text.
The consequences of poor patient safety are well documented and while this may not be headline news for paramedics, a legal perspective is offered which certainly provides an alternative take. Usefully, this is followed up with some helpful advice on learning from clinical errors. And for those responsible for investigating untoward occurrences, there is a little something in here for you too.
With clinical risk management, use of medication and cultural issues also among the content, this thin book actually packs quite a punch.
Unlike many other clinical texts, illustrations are effective and appropriate and summary boxes capture the salient learning points well. Further reading and resources are suggested at the end of each chapter and these would be well worth pursuing, given the superficial treatment afforded to the chosen subject.
Having said that, the contributors are successful in identifying the key areas of patient safety and as an introductory text to this particular area of clinical practice, it is entirely successful. If nothing else, it serves to illustrate what a fundamentally important area of medicine patient safety is and the diverse topics included within that.
A good starter for ten.