Book Review

Care of the High-Risk Neonate

Edited by Marshall H. Klaus and Avroy A. Fanaroff. 5th Edition. Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders, 2001. 632 pages in one volume, illustrated, US$57.50

Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA

Abstract

Journal of Perinatology (2002) 22, 593 doi:10.1038/sj.jp.7210686

Marshall Klaus and Avroy Fanaroff have achieved with distinction their objective to "stimulate readers and provide a sound physiologic and experimental basis for perinatal care" in the 5th edition of their book entitled Care of the High-Risk Neonate. This book is a must for anyone with a desire for more knowledge of the care of the newborn infant. The text is designed specifically to guide medical students, pediatric house officers, neonatology fellows, neonatal nurse practitioners, and nurses in the neonatal intensive care unit with an overview, which combines physiology with clinical significance and practical considerations.

This book includes 19 chapters and 35 appendices that are authored by 40 contributors and 11 commentators. The authors are from varied backgrounds, and include physicians, basic scientists, pharmacists, lawyers, and dietitians. In addition to covering specific organ systems, the authors have provided a remarkably thorough discussion of issues, such as antenatal/intrapartum care, care of the parents, neonatal outcomes, and ethics. Each chapter at its conclusion provides case problems and quizzes. This format reinforces learning and enables independent study. The appendix is also incredibly comprehensive and current, and contains drug doses, growth charts, and medical procedures, all of which make this book an excellent resource for its readership.

Although the multiplicity of authors adds diversity to the text, there is a notable variation in the depth of physiology included in the different chapters. Despite this caveat, clarity and ease of readability are sustained throughout the text. Surprisingly even with the number of contributors, there is minimal repetition in the text. The only exception to this observation is that the physical examination is repeated in multiple chapters. This repetition, however, is beneficial in that it serves to reinforce the information and mitigates inconsistency.

Overall, Care of the High-Risk Neonate is a comprehensive, easy to read text that should be an excellent addition to any library. The appendix alone makes this text a must in any neonatal intensive care unit as a handy and quick reference guide. This book is a true bargain for the price tag of US$57.50.

October/November 2002, Volume 22, Number 7, Pages 593-593

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