The ICU Book, 3rd Edition

The ICU Book is a selective (but fairly comprehensive) review of ICU topics from largely one doctor's perspective. (The 2007 edition has "contributions" from a second doctor.) That it's written by one person keeps a consistency in style but there are several controversial points raised where it's hard to tell whether this is now hard-science proven standard of care or the author's preference. There are many typographical errors (including drug dosages) and most of the references are from the 1990's and earlier; few references are after 2000.

All in all, it's a well written basic review of ICU topics but should be read knowing this is one person's approach to care. It's a good starter for residents and a good review book for the Critical Care boards.

Better concise book doesn't exist. You can read it in 1 week! well illustrated. It offers the essentials you need to understand to be familiar with the disease's physiopathology you're confronted with in the ICU.
to be red and red again.
If you're looking for a more exhaustive book, buy the Parrillo's!

This is the best practical clinical book I have read in the field of medicine. Easy to read with a lot of practical application.You read this book and you will be a star clinical intern, resident and attending too....

I highly recommend this book to medical students, interns and residents.
My ICU attending recommended it to me before the rotation and I thought that it was helpful, easy reading and explained common prodecures ( ie central lines).

I own the 2nd ed. and am looking forward to owning the 3rd. This was recommended to me when I first started Critical Care (CC) Nursing 6 years ago and I have yet to find anything even close. I love the fact a physician wrote it. The information is much more clear than any CC nursing text/book I have bought. ... and I have tons. It follows more closely to the medical model, not a nursing format... ie. it doesn't include nursing diagnosis or nursing care. I feel much more confident discussing patients with colleagues, families and patients after looking up my facts in this book. As mentioned in other reviews, some may not think of this as a 'quick reference' book, but I know if I have it with me I am always referring to it. It's heavy because the print is large (also mentioned in other reviews) making it thick, but really is quite concise in all it's explanations. I would purchase this book for anyone involved in Critical Care.