This is the latest edition of the manual for those taking the Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) course, which is designed for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, respiratory therapists and EMTs to successfully stabilize seriously and critically ill infants and children in and outside of a medical setting and permit them to be safely transported to an ED or PICU. The manual emphasizes the physiology of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, and incorporates new recommendations based on the most recent clinical studies, including the updated 2010 American Heart Association Basic Life Support Infant and Child CPR techniques. It also stresses effective team dynamics; recognition and management of respiratory distress and failure, cardiovascular emergencies and shock; post-resuscitation management; and the pharmacology of the medications used in life-threatening emergencies. The appendix includes BLS competency testing; competency checklists for the skills and learning stations; and heart rhythm recognition. Also included is an invaluable pocket card which summarizes essential PALS information for reference in these emergencies.

The PALS Provider Manual is well written, and students who read it carefully and thoroughly will be well prepared for the certification and renewal courses. ( )