Book excerpt: Go ‘back to basics’ with this concise, clear text on the essentials of nursing care. Comprehensively covers all aspects of essential care Puts care into context and relates it to current UK Government policy and targets Shows how to apply theory in practice using diagrams and case studies Uses a ‘reflective’ theme throughout, in line with current teaching practice Explains Clinical Skills in the context of care Includes a companion website (www.pearsoned.co.uk/field) to support learning The book is designed to help the student develop a proactive approach to the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of the care that they give. The invaluable advice can be applied to all branches of nursing and to all environments where patients are nursed, whether in hospital, at home or care homes. Essential reading for nursing students, qualified nurses and all health and social care workers