ECG's Made Easy : With Pocket Guide

From The Critics

Reviewer: Marilyn Sibrizzi Allatin, BS in Nursing, BA liberal Arts(University of Connecticut)
Description: This is a highly organized approach to basic dysrhythmia recognition. A comprehensive review of anatomy and physiology serves as a foundation as each dysrhythmia is discussed and the layout is reader friendly, accented by numerous tables designed to highlight important information.
Purpose: According to the author, this book focuses on the essential information needed to interpret basic dysrhythmias and understand their significance. It establishes a five-point evaluation criteria and systematically walks the reader through each dysrhythmia. Because of added features in this edition, the author provides an excellent resource for personal or formal instruction.
Audience: This book targests a vast audience of healthcare professionals who need a solid understanding of basic ECG recognition. Regardless of the reader's educational background the material is consistently presented in a format that allows development of stated objectives on completion of each chapter. The in-depth review of anatomy and physiology and basic electrophysiology is well written and easy to understand despite the complex nature of the material.
Features: What enhances this basic book are the sections entitled Causes and Clinical Significance and Interventions which are included as each rhythm is identified. Chapter 12, "Introduction to the 12-Lead ECG" is an excellent transition to the next level of rhythm interpretation. The reader will find that stated objectives at the beginning of each chapter clearly outline the content. Tables are color coded to each chapter and highlight characteristics of each rhythm. The Stop and Review and Practice Rhythm sections reinforce content and test comprehension of stated objectives, thereby providing practice and increasing the learner's confidence. Each chapter contains a color coded summary table comparing the characteristics of the rhythm covered within that chapter.
Assessment: If this edition's new features as outlined by the author were eliminated, I would speculate that the first edition was lacking in material that would enable the reader to develop an in-depth approach to ECG interpretation. This book can serve two purposes: first, as a text for mastering of basic ECG skills and second, as an excellent review for those already practicing rhythm interpretation. I did not find the pocket reference particularly useful. This is probably the third or fourth book I've seen on rhythm interpretation but I found this the easiest to understand and would recommend its purchase by hospital departments, libraries, educators, and healthcare professionals.

5 Stars! from Doody