The aim of this book is to help the reader achieve the correct diagnosis in the emergency
setting which continues to remain a challenge given the variety of potential clinical
presentations. Diagnostic failure is the largest reason for delays in provision of appropriate
treatment which can be life-saving and the largest source of clinical complaints and untoward
incidents leading to poor clinical outcomes and to litigation.In this book the readers will
find diagnostic checklists organised according to potential emergency presentations and
classified under body systems including atypical presentations lists of differential
diagnoses and guidance to pattern recognition.Apart from providing an aide-memoire for a range
of presentations it is hoped that the book will allow for better quality and informed
referrals especially between health care providers. This book is aimed as a rapid reference
guide for all levels of medical staff working in emergency and acute care settings in the
English-speaking world but may also benefit nursing professionals and medical students.
