Delays in recognising deterioration, or inappropriate management of people in acute care settings can result in late treatment, avoidable admissions to intensive care units and, in some instances, unnecessary deaths. As the role of the nurse in healthcare settings continues to change and evolve, today’s nursing and other healthcare students need to be equipped with the fundamental skills to recognise and manage deterioration in the patient in a competent and confident manner, appreciating the complexities of caring for those who are acutely unwell as you learn to become practitioners of the future.

Using a body systems approach, and fully updated in light of new NEWS2 and NMC future nurse standards, as well as acknowledging the challenges faced by people with delirium in acute care settings, the second edition of this book provides a comprehensive overview of the essential issues in this important subject. Topics covered include recognition and identification of physiological and mental deterioration in adults; identification of disordered physiology that may lead to a medical emergency linked to deterioration of normal function; relevant anatomy and physiology; pathophysiological changes and actions that need to be taken; immediate recognition and response; investigations, diagnosis and management issues; and teaching and preventative strategies.

Including case studies and test yourself questions, this book is an essential tool for student nurses who are required to undertake acute care experiences and are assessed in theory and practice.