Innovation training and research are the pillars that support a process deriving from basic
science and multi-professional multidisciplinary interventions. The APICE 2012 yearbook deals
with several innovations for optimising prevention and management measures for the critically
ill by integrating diagnostic procedures with pharmacological and technological options. Peri-
and postoperative managements as well as treatment of surgical infections and of pain new and
old artificial ventilation strategies are some of the most relevant topics the volume deal with
in this new edition. The volume focuses also on the improvement standards and quality of care
on the expanding concept of clinical governance and professionalism and on the importance of
ethical principles for establishing a process of patient-centered and evidence-based care.
