ICU Chest Radiology

The first book in more than a decade to specifically address this topic, it's an authoritative and concise guide to interpreting portable chest film; identifying and correcting any abnormal positions in the various devices inserted into the vascular and respiratory systems; and diagnosing abnormalities of the cardiopulmonary system. Radiology expert Dr. Harold Moskowitz outlines his approach and philosophy toward x-ray interpretation of the critically ill patient—one that can be used daily and in any the emergency department or I.C.U. setting.

Divided into ten straightforward chapters, the book begins with a discussion of the physics necessary to obtain a proper film and moves on to the more clinical problems encountered each day—such as airspace disease, barotrauma, pneumonia, congestive failure, and malalignment of tubes and lines. Throughout, the author points out specific findings that can often make a difference in a patient's management. Supporting these detailed chapters is a CD featuring real-life case studies and radiographic images that simulate common problems. This is a unique way for readers to prepare to handle the all-too-common scenario: the 2:00 a.m. call from a nurse that a patient has "crashed" and needs attention. Using knowledge gleaned from the chapters, the reader is encouraged to study the radiograph in each case, identify the various problems, determine the clinical condition that caused deterioration in the patient, and plan a course of action. Readers can test themselves with the cases and then listen to discussions of the pertinent findings on the film.

I.C.U. Chest Radiology is essential reading for those who work in or are associated with I.C.U.s—radiologists, intensivists, hospitalists, emergency physicians, residents, medical students, physician assistants, respiratory therapists, and nurses. It will also be a valuable guide for personnel who work in step down units and emergency departments.