Clinical Microbiology Procedures Handbook - 3 Volume Set, 4th Edition Doody's Expert Review Review Questionnaire ISBN: 9781555818807 ISBN-10: 1555818803 Copyright: 2016 Edition: 4th Editor: Leber, Amy L. Doody's Expert Review    Score: 95 Doody's Star Rating™ and Doody's Expert Review provide by Doody Enterprises, Inc. Reviewer: Valerie Ng,  PhD MD  (Alameda County Medical Center/Highland Hospital) Description This is the fourth edition of a well-respected, oft-consulted, and commonly-used reference for clinical microbiology laboratory procedures. The previous edition was published in 2010. Purpose The purpose is to "provide procedures for the detection, identification and characterization of microorganisms involved in human infections." The book meets these most worthy objectives. Audience The book is intended for those "engaged in microbial analysis of clinical specimens," which is primarily clinical laboratory scientists. Laboratory medicine practitioners and infectious disease practitioners, whether students, residents, fellows, or in practice, also would find it valuable. It might be useful to others -- e.g., nurses, other advanced practice practitioners, allied health providers, etc. -- if detail-oriented. Features It was hard to get around to reviewing this because I was so busy using this edition to update my own laboratory procedures. This should tell you how invaluable and indispensable this book is. It is exactly what it claims to be -- an authoritative compilation of any and all procedures that might be encountered in a clinical microbiology laboratory. This edition has a "continued and expanded emphasis on molecular and proteomic approaches, bioterrorism, infection control and the host's immunological responses to microbial challenges." And, it has an entire chapter devoted to IQCP (YES!). Each procedure follows a standard CLSI (and therefore CLIA-compliant) format. If more than one method is available, evidence-based pros and cons of using specific reagents or media are outlined. The limitations section remains most helpful in understanding the many procedural nuances. Drawbacks? The only one, and the most obvious one, is the size and heft: three full-sized three-ring binders, and the pages don't glide as easily as desired over the rings. Use ergonomically correct practices when moving these volumes on and off the shelf to avoid injuries, and be patient when trying to get to the desired section to avoid paper cuts. Added benefits? An ebook version is available from the publisher if you want portability. Even better, an editable version is available -- get this if you want the most streamlined and efficient method of configuring a procedure to your individual laboratory practice. Assessment If you perform clinical microbiology testing, you have to have this. Get it, preferably in the editable version to make your life easier and to ensure your laboratory performs at evidence-based, best practice levels. Review Questionnaire Range Question Score 1-10 Are the author's objectives met? 10 1-10 Rate the worthiness of those objectives. 10 1-5 Is this written at an appropriate level? 5 1-5 Is there significant duplication? (1=significant, 5=insignificant) 4 1-5 Are there significant omissions? (1=significant, 5=insignificant) 5 1-5 Rate the authority of the authors. 5 1-5 Are there sufficient illustrations? 5 1-5 Rate the pedagogic value of the illustrations. 4 1-5 Rate the print quality of the illustrations. 4 1-5 Are there sufficient references? 5 1-5 Rate the currency of the references. 4 1-5 Rate the pertinence of the references. 5 1-5 Rate the helpfulness of the index. 4 1-5 If important in this specialty, rate the physical appearance of the book N/A 1-10 Is this a worthwhile contribution to the field? 10 1-10 If this is a 2nd or later edition, is this new edition needed? 10 ©2024 Doody Enterprises, Inc.