Baranoski, S., & Ayello, E. A. (2003). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins. 432 pp. $39.95 http://www.lww.com

This comprehensive yet concise wound care handbook was written by two outstanding wound care specialists, with contributions from more than 15 well-respected experts in the field. All aspects of wound care are covered: wound healing, wound assessment, and treatment options for all wound types. The authors emphasize nutrition and quality of life for patients with chronic wounds, and a full chapter is devoted to pain associated with wounds and wound care. Additionally, the legal and regulatory aspects associated with skin integrity are explored.

Unusual wounds that result from malignant ulcers, vasculitis, pyoderma gangrenosum, and calciphylaxis are covered, as well as the wound care needs of special population groups such as older adults, children, spinal cord injury patients, and HIV-AIDS patients. More than 100 illustrations, checklists, tables, recurring icons, and flowcharts provide easy access to essential information, and a 16-page full-color insert illustrates the healing process and wound types. Evidence- and research-based references follow each chapter.