Author Description

The focus of this book is to provide the reader with knowledge that provides a sound base for clinical judgment. Such knowledge can then be applied in order to provide safe, individualised, and competent nursing care. This easily understood, straightforward Australian edition will help students integrate concepts in pathophysiology, pharmacology and interdisciplinary healthcare interventions. Multiple learning strategies such as audio, illustrations, and video and animation media have been developed to help the student succeed. The inclusion of boxes, tables, special features and illustrations, as well as synthesis and critical thinking exercises help students to build skills for class, clinical learning and for practice as a registered nurse. We believe that students learn best when a textbook has consistent organisation and understandable text. Our vision is that this textbook: Maintains a strong focus on nursing care as the essential element in learning. This is regardless of the age of the client or the setting for care; Provides a proper balance of physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and interdisciplinary care, on which to base safe, competent, and individualized nursing care; Emphasises the nurse's role as an essential member of the interdisciplinary healthcare team; Fosters critical thinking and decision-making skills as the basis for nursing excellence in clinical practice; Continues to believe that the person receiving care has not only a personal experience with health and illness, but is also an active participant in maintaining and/or regaining health. Within this philosophy, we regard that person as a client, rather than a patient and the client as an individual, a family, or a community.