The fourth edition of this widely acclaimed book continues to provide practical, concise information on intensive care that will enable the therapist to manage a patient effectively and safely without recourse to large reference books or monographs. 'Intensive Care Manual' is a working textbook rather than a synoptic guide, as detail is provided on the background, recent advances and controversial issues of most conditions encountered in an Intensive Care Unit. Despite the continual growth of knowledge which has warranted three editions over the past seventeen years (the first edition having been published in 1979) and the consequent increase in the book's length, 'Intensive Care Manual' should not be viewed as a reference tome, as this was never the intention. This new edition has been thoroughly updated with emphasis on recent important topics such as organ transplantation, HIV, oxygen monitoring and delivery, novel treatment for SIRS (systemic inflammatory response syndrome) and paediatric intensive care. A number of new chapters have been added as well as some text rearranged for easier reference. Three new sections (Environmental Injuries, Pharmacological Considerations, Transplantation) have been created. Material has once again been presented in a format that enables easy access to the required information. Although primarily intended for the trainee and practitioner in Intensive Care Medicine, nurses, allied health professionals and other medical specialists will also find 'Intensive Care Manual' extremely useful as it provides comprehensive practical guidance on resuscitation and acute medical care. 'Intensive Care Manual 4th edition' should be an essential purchase for any professional involved in acute medicine.