A comprehensive reference that includes not only discussions of basic disease processes and differential diagnosis, but also key information on the role of the consultant, patient disposition, indications for admissions, acceptable alternatives to admission (e.g., outpatient treatment), guidelines for transfer, medicolegal issues and clinical pitfalls. This revised edition (first was 1991) adds two new sections: Essentials of Administrative and Clinical Issues in Emergency Medicine, and Essentials of Diagnostic Imaging and the Laboratory. A new appendix enhances rapid location of essential material. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)