Delmar's Guide to Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests

Organized alphabetically, this guide gives information on some 600 lab and diagnostic tests. Each test is explained in plain language, with information on normal findings, test description, equipment required, test procedure, clinical implications and indications, nursing care, and potential complications and contraindications. Each entry also contains Web links of interest. Indexes list tests by type, disease, body system, and name. Useful for students and practitioners of nursing, medicine, and medical technology.

Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Doody Review Services

Reviewer:Barbara G Miller, MS, RN(University of Oklahoma College of Nursing)
Description:Laboratory and diagnostic tests are arranged alphabetically for ease of use in this guide. Phonetic clues help with pronunciation of test names and a clock shows how much time is needed to conduct the test.
Purpose:The book provides thoroughly updated, state-of-the-art information for laboratory and diagnostic testing. It is unique in introducing an international perspective in a user-friendly format.
Audience:The intended audience is students and practitioners of nursing, medicine, and medical technology. This would be a good reference in the clinical setting for practitioners or students.
Features:The book covers laboratory and diagnostic test time requirements, equipment, indications, and rationale. The alphabetical listings make it easy to find a test, even if you don't know what kind of test it is. A unique feature is the inclusion of international implications for a diverse population. However, the book is wordy and does not make sufficient use of bulleted lists. The international aspect, while noteworthy, doesn't add significantly to its value.
Assessment:There are numerous diagnostic test reference books on the market. Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, 4th edition, Pagana and Pagana (Elsevier, 2010) uses a more visually appealing format and is a better book for students. However, Delmar's Guide would be a good reference for the clinical setting.

Rick Daniels, RN, Ph.D. obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oregon Nursing School, a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of San Diego and a Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of Texas in Austin. He has taught nursing in associate, baccalaureate and graduate schools, as well as RN degree completion programs. In addition, he has taught many adult health and illness topics at seminars and has presented posters for national organizations (e.g., AORN, NLN Educators Conference). Dr. Daniels administers clinical practicum courses in critical care and perioperative nursing arenas and is currently an associate professor with tenure at Oregon Health & Sciences University, School of Nursing.