Student Review: Fundamentals of Nursing: Concepts, Process and Practice

Authors: Barbara Kozier, Glenora Erb, Audrey Berman, Shirlee Snyder, Sharon Harvey and Heulwen Morgan-Samuel

Edition: Second

Publisher Pearson Education

Pages: 904

Price: £34.99

ISBN: 97803739081

Aimed at pre-registration nursing students, this textbook offers detailed instructions and guidelines for all aspects of nursing care and procedures.

The initial chapter provides a brief introduction to the history of nursing and highlights current issues associated with modern nursing practice. The phenomenon of nursing research is highlighted, and descriptions are given, from an organisational and structural perspective, of the many ways that nurses carry out the care they give in different clinical areas.

Admittedly, it is a particularly large textbook, but this enables all aspects of care to be discussed in detail, with examples and case studies allowing the reader to link theory with practice. Each of the chapters provides learning objectives for the reader and links essential skills with the guidance issued by the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

A number of different learning styles are illustrated throughout, giving the reader the opportunity to discuss case studies with fellow students. Practical nursing skills guidelines are illustrated and learning activities are given, encouraging students to reflect on their own knowledge and understanding and then relate this to practice.

A detailed step-by-step procedure section, covering all elements of nursing assessment, is provided in each of the book's clinical chapters. Each procedure begins by stating the purpose; namely, what it is that the nurse should be looking for with the associated rationale. The assessment procedure, planning and implementation of the plan of care are also illustrated. Examples of procedures include assessing body temperature, providing tracheotomy care and assisting a patient to walk. In total there are 84 step-by-step procedures included, and each is clearly written and discussed.

The style of the book is engaging, with colourful use of text and pictures throughout. The level of detail given in each chapter is excellent, and the evidence used is up to date, as the supporting references confirm.

Who is it for? Pre-registration nurses.

Presentation: Generic.

Would you recommend it? Yes, both to those just beginning their nursing career and for registered nurses throughout their nursing life. It is a valuable introduction and guide to the nursing profession.