The ICU Book

This book is different because it is highly original. The author is secure in his practice of intensive care, and tells the reader "this is the way WE do it". It was probably never intended for quick reference or board prep. The relatively large print and generous spacing make the book bigger and heavier but more pleasant to read. Too big, in fact, to be a paperback - why not hardcover, only the publisher knows.

This book provides the essential background for ICU rotation. It provides pathophysiology and pharmacology Literature which helps residendts and students alike the knowledge for better understanding of the diagnosis and management of patients.

The author approaches inherently technical subject matter in a down to earth manner. This is not to say it is necessarily simplified, but neither is it needlessly complex. Being "problem-based", the text is easily lends itself for quick reference when needing review of particular aspects of critical care. This book bridges gaps that my Patho texts leave and offer experienced based pearls that are so valuable for those newly embarking in the arena of critical care. This book resides with my Merck Manual and Harriet Lane.

I bought this book because I saw a copy lying around the ICU and flipped through it. It's a great reference text if you need to know how to do something. I actually have it as bedside reading and it does that job poorly because it reads like a manual rather than a book. Also, despite Dr Marino's credentials, he is only one man and is of one opinion and he gives many recommendations that are contrary to current protocol (he also gives reasons and references as to why his way is better). I like his "advantages and disadvantages" evaluations for each procedure/drug/treatment.

This is a perfect way to obtain a fairly broad fund of ICU knowledge without having to stop every other paragraph to analize and digest the words used to express an idea. I find it very useful for residents and ICU fellows. All physicians in different levels of training will find something interesting in this book. Its size makes it very attractive and its no-frills medical terminology makes it extremely approachable. Tha fact that it has been written by a single author provides a wholesome quality and a unique global view of what the ICU is like. A definite MUST HAVE in anyone's basic ICU library.