This new edition of a standard textbook continues to be a reliable work which is invaluable to veterinary nurses-in-training, qualified VNs, and lay persons working in veterinary surgeries. It is well laid out, with a detailed list of contents, clear type, and excellent diagrams and photographs, although some of the latter are slightly dated. The wipe-clean cover is a practical benefit. The eleven chapters are all comprehensive, with clear definitions of terms used, and sound coverage of techniques and advice to clients.
There have been notable improvements to several chapters. Chapter 3 is concerned with management, hygiene and feeding and is notable for its coverage of the dietary requirements of small animals (guinea pigs, mice, etc.); clients often seek advice on this topic. However, the descriptions of sexing of animals would, in future editions, benefit from diagrams. Chapter 4 (First Aid) contains practical advice on day-to-day problems, such as puppies chewing electrical cables, and is a necessary source of information, particularly if the veterinary surgeon is unavailable. Chapters 5 and 6 have been renamed ('Basic Nursing Care' and 'The Practice of Nursing') and, while not containing much new material, are laid out and organized better than in previous editions. Radiography is discussed in Chapter 9 -a considerable improvement on earlier editions which, per se, could justify purchase of this edition. A table elegantly lists common film faults and their remedies. There are also clear instructions on radiological safety.
The glossary is small, therefore any criticism of content must be subjective. The content is adequate, but some definitions are imprecise; for instance, 'virulence' is confused with 'pathogenicity' (which is not defined). A separate section is devoted to common prefures, suffues and other terms, and is particularly useful to staff-intraining who wish to become familiar with general veterinary terms. All important information is readily accessible via the index.
This book should be purchased by all VNs, and is also an indispensible part of the veterinary practice library which should be available for consultation by all lay and trained members of staff.