Considers the key issues surrounding the critical patient's care in the acute general hospital. This book explores the anatomy and physiology of each body system, looking at the major associated conditions and illnesses and how the patient is assessed and monitored.

As more critically ill patients are cared for on acute general wards rather than in ICUs, many nurses are having to cope with the particular problems of very sick patients without the specialist knowledge of an ICU trained nurse. The book considers the key issues surrounding the critical patient's care in the acute general hospital. The anatomy and physiology of each body system is explored, looking at the major associated conditions and illnesses and how the patient is assessed and monitored.

Setting the scene / Supporting the nervous system / Supporting respiration / Supporting the endocrine system / Supporting the cardio-vascular system / Supporting the alimentary system / Supporting the renal system / Supporting staff / Supporting the patient and their family / Ethical issues.