101 Careers in Nursing, Jeanne M. Novotny, Doris T. Lippman, Nicole K. Sanders, and Joyce J. Fitzpatrick, editors. New York, Springer Publishing Co, 2003. 240 pages, softcover, $33.95.

This carefully organized book examines and explains the competencies needed to be successfully employed in 122 different types of positions within the nursing profession. It goes into detail about the requirements for successful employment in each specific area.

An appendix provides a guide to certification as a means of stronger identification in each type of practice. This text provides readers the opportunity to reflect on how well they are adapting to their present employment as well as widening their insight into progressive change in their lifetime career. The rapid advance of technology will undoubtedly change the structure and skill requirements in every area but it is necessary to have a full grasp of the present state of affairs to result in job satisfaction and progress.

The carefully and fully organized compilation of present career phenomena should enable the readers to more accurately shape the future in each respective field. In examining and reflecting on the consistent changes in each area as a result of research and new science this book will be very helpful in giving aid to this process.

It can be easily predicted that very substantial and steady changes will take place in healthcare and its management. The consistent and rapid improvement in science and the resulting technology will consistently change every field of endeavor, not just that of nursing. There will be no escape, just the rapid adaptation to the new or face being obsolete or having a stunted career. The book accurately alerts nurses to the need to constantly gather new scientific and clinical knowledge or face a halt in career progress.