Description

Preface
Since the first edition of this book in 1988 and following editions in 1992, 1998,
2004 and 2009, emergency medicine has — fortunately — continued to advance.
In this edition much new information, many new approaches and extensive
refinements of existing clinical management have been incorporated. Again,
current and respected practising clinicians have been chosen as authors for their
clinical expertise and experience, so that they can compact their knowledge into
the pocket-sized format. As healthcare resources continue to be stretched, the first
hours of a patient’s illness or initial contact with healthcare providers, outside and
inside a hospital, are even more critical to the outcome. It is also very pertinent
given the challenge of re-engineering patient flow, e.g. the ‘4-hour rule’, which is
coupled to funding. The aim of this book is to help with this initial contact.
Any suggestions for improving this will be very much appreciated: please send
them to gfulde@stvincents.com.au.