Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

essential, 27 Dec 2007
I had a copy of this book at uni but didn't truly appreciate it until my first nightshifts as a houseofficer... The book contains a wealth of up to date info about medical emergencies in an easy to read and understand format, and is probably useful for all medical staff no matter what specialty or grade - FY1s and 2s will thank their lucky stars for this book, as will more experienced doctors who need a review of seat-of-your-pants medicine. Those grim nightshifts when your senior is stuck in A&E and you're faced with a patient as sick as a dog will seem less intimidating thanks to this addition to the OH series.

it can also just about fit in the back pocket of your scrubs!

Perfect for use in conjunction with essential guide to acute care by cooper / cramp

A real acute medicine., 02 Jun 2005
Only truly used and verified clinical knowledge. I trust this book, its realy up to date, good problem approach, reliable. Does not make me confused as many others when I check a problem. Worth every single penny.

comprehensive, authoritative, 01 Apr 2005
The new edition of the OHAM is a very welcome revision indeed. The first edition was starting to feel rather dated.

For the most part is extremely comprehenisive, covering everything for altitude sickness to COPD exacerbations. The information is always well presented and reasonably succinct. It really does follow on nicely from the OHCM.

Of course there are problems- the text has become more prose-like and less bullet pointy. This means that whilst it is a 'pocketbook', it really is best read at home before and after the event to dissect out what may/went wrong. Nevertheless it is useful in making sure you haven't forgotten anything during an on-call.

The book includes a section of respiratory support- this is esentially principle based and is of little use in an actual emergency. The practical management information the book provides would be enough for an SPR who was not working in their chosen field i think. Obviously each hospital has its own guidelines which no doubt deviate from this text.

The main book to compare it with is the 'Acute Medicine: A Practical Guide to the Management of Medical Emergencies'

Overall, the OHAM is more detailed and comprehensive, HOWEVER - the other book is far more practical and offers extremely valuable management algorithms.
In short, you must use BOTH books........

Clearing the acute medical minefield, 07 May 2004
As a newly qualified Nurse Practitioner working in an acute medical setting this book is a fantastic help. Clear, consise and fits in your pocket.Not just for Doctors but all health professionals with an extended role. It will save you at 3 am!!

extremely useful, 05 Mar 2000
this is as good as the yellow handbook of clinical medicine but this gives you the signposts you need as a SHO on call , wheras the yellow book is rather more simple. They do complement each other though. Really useful as a checklist for making sure you have done everything that is needed as an emergency.

Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

essential, 27 Dec 2007
I had a copy of this book at uni but didn't truly appreciate it until my first nightshifts as a houseofficer... The book contains a wealth of up to date info about medical emergencies in an easy to read and understand format, and is probably useful for all medical staff no matter what specialty or grade - FY1s and 2s will thank their lucky stars for this book, as will more experienced doctors who need a review of seat-of-your-pants medicine. Those grim nightshifts when your senior is stuck in A&E and you're faced with a patient as sick as a dog will seem less intimidating thanks to this addition to the OH series.

it can also just about fit in the back pocket of your scrubs!

Perfect for use in conjunction with essential guide to acute care by cooper / cramp

A real acute medicine., 02 Jun 2005
Only truly used and verified clinical knowledge. I trust this book, its realy up to date, good problem approach, reliable. Does not make me confused as many others when I check a problem. Worth every single penny.

comprehensive, authoritative, 01 Apr 2005
The new edition of the OHAM is a very welcome revision indeed. The first edition was starting to feel rather dated.

For the most part is extremely comprehenisive, covering everything for altitude sickness to COPD exacerbations. The information is always well presented and reasonably succinct. It really does follow on nicely from the OHCM.

Of course there are problems- the text has become more prose-like and less bullet pointy. This means that whilst it is a 'pocketbook', it really is best read at home before and after the event to dissect out what may/went wrong. Nevertheless it is useful in making sure you haven't forgotten anything during an on-call.

The book includes a section of respiratory support- this is esentially principle based and is of little use in an actual emergency. The practical management information the book provides would be enough for an SPR who was not working in their chosen field i think. Obviously each hospital has its own guidelines which no doubt deviate from this text.

The main book to compare it with is the 'Acute Medicine: A Practical Guide to the Management of Medical Emergencies'

Overall, the OHAM is more detailed and comprehensive, HOWEVER - the other book is far more practical and offers extremely valuable management algorithms.
In short, you must use BOTH books........

Clearing the acute medical minefield, 07 May 2004
As a newly qualified Nurse Practitioner working in an acute medical setting this book is a fantastic help. Clear, consise and fits in your pocket.Not just for Doctors but all health professionals with an extended role. It will save you at 3 am!!

extremely useful, 05 Mar 2000
this is as good as the yellow handbook of clinical medicine but this gives you the signposts you need as a SHO on call , wheras the yellow book is rather more simple. They do complement each other though. Really useful as a checklist for making sure you have done everything that is needed as an emergency.

WOW! Get a copy of this for your school/college/university/work bag, 13 Feb 2008
Now at university, I have used a version of this book since i first found it when doing A-level PE. Then i was using the first edition, when i prgoressed onto a degree in Sports Studies I started using the second edition and now as a student can't afford this newer version of a fantastic resource. This book gives a good clear understandable description of almost everything you could want to know within the field of sports science and medicine. A great book to go to first for any study of a specific topic, or even just to have next to you when ready, nay, sifting through a thick text book. A great 'primary' secondary research text. Recommended on the highest level. Even better in hardback.


A Vital Book For Sports Science Students!!!, 19 Jan 2008
This dictionary is just what I've been looking for! For essays and assignments this has been a life saver for checking up definitions of sports science related words and phrases.

I've found the Oxford Dictionary of Sports and Medicine to be the best book i've ever bought for my degree! But, this book will not only be great for me during my university years, but also would be a great buy to use for GCSE and A-levels as it's not too complicated and explains everything you'd ever need to know!

I don't know what i'd do without this book to be honest! It definitly beats wikipedia and google when searching for words and phrases related to Sports Science hands down!

I would recommend this book to virtually anyone who is doing a sports related degree or course at university, college or school!

Excellent Book for Sports Science Lecturers, 15 Jan 2002
This dictionary contains almost every sports science, anatomy/physiology, biomechanic,, injuries description, and pschological term as related to sports medicine/science. It is very comprehensive and is a must for any student or teacher's bookshelf. A dictionary that will not be dated in a few years. Great investment.

Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

essential, 27 Dec 2007
I had a copy of this book at uni but didn't truly appreciate it until my first nightshifts as a houseofficer... The book contains a wealth of up to date info about medical emergencies in an easy to read and understand format, and is probably useful for all medical staff no matter what specialty or grade - FY1s and 2s will thank their lucky stars for this book, as will more experienced doctors who need a review of seat-of-your-pants medicine. Those grim nightshifts when your senior is stuck in A&E and you're faced with a patient as sick as a dog will seem less intimidating thanks to this addition to the OH series.

it can also just about fit in the back pocket of your scrubs!

Perfect for use in conjunction with essential guide to acute care by cooper / cramp

A real acute medicine., 02 Jun 2005
Only truly used and verified clinical knowledge. I trust this book, its realy up to date, good problem approach, reliable. Does not make me confused as many others when I check a problem. Worth every single penny.

comprehensive, authoritative, 01 Apr 2005
The new edition of the OHAM is a very welcome revision indeed. The first edition was starting to feel rather dated.

For the most part is extremely comprehenisive, covering everything for altitude sickness to COPD exacerbations. The information is always well presented and reasonably succinct. It really does follow on nicely from the OHCM.

Of course there are problems- the text has become more prose-like and less bullet pointy. This means that whilst it is a 'pocketbook', it really is best read at home before and after the event to dissect out what may/went wrong. Nevertheless it is useful in making sure you haven't forgotten anything during an on-call.

The book includes a section of respiratory support- this is esentially principle based and is of little use in an actual emergency. The practical management information the book provides would be enough for an SPR who was not working in their chosen field i think. Obviously each hospital has its own guidelines which no doubt deviate from this text.

The main book to compare it with is the 'Acute Medicine: A Practical Guide to the Management of Medical Emergencies'

Overall, the OHAM is more detailed and comprehensive, HOWEVER - the other book is far more practical and offers extremely valuable management algorithms.
In short, you must use BOTH books........

Clearing the acute medical minefield, 07 May 2004
As a newly qualified Nurse Practitioner working in an acute medical setting this book is a fantastic help. Clear, consise and fits in your pocket.Not just for Doctors but all health professionals with an extended role. It will save you at 3 am!!

extremely useful, 05 Mar 2000
this is as good as the yellow handbook of clinical medicine but this gives you the signposts you need as a SHO on call , wheras the yellow book is rather more simple. They do complement each other though. Really useful as a checklist for making sure you have done everything that is needed as an emergency.

WOW! Get a copy of this for your school/college/university/work bag, 13 Feb 2008
Now at university, I have used a version of this book since i first found it when doing A-level PE. Then i was using the first edition, when i prgoressed onto a degree in Sports Studies I started using the second edition and now as a student can't afford this newer version of a fantastic resource. This book gives a good clear understandable description of almost everything you could want to know within the field of sports science and medicine. A great book to go to first for any study of a specific topic, or even just to have next to you when ready, nay, sifting through a thick text book. A great 'primary' secondary research text. Recommended on the highest level. Even better in hardback.


A Vital Book For Sports Science Students!!!, 19 Jan 2008
This dictionary is just what I've been looking for! For essays and assignments this has been a life saver for checking up definitions of sports science related words and phrases.

I've found the Oxford Dictionary of Sports and Medicine to be the best book i've ever bought for my degree! But, this book will not only be great for me during my university years, but also would be a great buy to use for GCSE and A-levels as it's not too complicated and explains everything you'd ever need to know!

I don't know what i'd do without this book to be honest! It definitly beats wikipedia and google when searching for words and phrases related to Sports Science hands down!

I would recommend this book to virtually anyone who is doing a sports related degree or course at university, college or school!

Excellent Book for Sports Science Lecturers, 15 Jan 2002
This dictionary contains almost every sports science, anatomy/physiology, biomechanic,, injuries description, and pschological term as related to sports medicine/science. It is very comprehensive and is a must for any student or teacher's bookshelf. A dictionary that will not be dated in a few years. Great investment.

Excellent!, 21 Jun 2004
Completely overhauled for this new edition, this is a top-notch medical dictionary; coloured illustrations, photographs and tables are all used selectively to highlight points and facilitate understanding. The dictionary comes with a CD-ROM allowing you to install an e-book version on your PDA and a spell-checker on your PC. Both the e-book and spell-checker are easy to install and use, although both require web-access from your PC for installation.
The PDA version is a shortened version of the paper-based dictionary. The apparent lack of diagrams on the PDA version is a bit of a shame. In terms of searching for a word or abbreviation there is the usual index. The index is complemented with a search facility; this greatly speeds-up the ability to look-up words. As per the paper version there are also links between related definitions - flicking to and through these different links is easier on the PDA.
The spell-checker slots neatly into Microsoft Word and Microsoft Office - it contains all the words in the dictionary, and works well in Word XP. The installation even includes a test document to determine whether the installation was successful - a nice thoughtful touch.

Excellent Medical Dictionary, 16 Mar 1999
I have used the Dorland's Medical Dictionary for 25 years working in a hospital transcription position. This dictionary makes looking up words easy and in most cases I could find what I was looking for in here when I could not find it in the Stedman's. I am buying books for working at home and this is one of my first choices.

This was very disappointing, 23 Feb 1999
I was very disappointed when I got this dictionary. I had before the 1937 17th edition and the 1982 pocket edition. This edition shows you what cann happen when a book goes through many editions. Among the things wrong were: 1) The book is oversized and bulky to handle. 2) It is printed on what may be positiveley the worst sort of paper for a medical dictionary or other alphabetically rganized reference book. The pages are a bit hard to separate and are very easily badly wrinkled by water. I worried about whether Amazon com would let me return it after I damaged one page but they said okay. I have very rarely seen any book printed on paper like it or close to it except for some Bibles. 3) It is an important principle of a good medical dictionary that evry word used in a definition should itself be defined (although that will send a novice looking through half a dozen or more entries, the person will learn and it's valueable) This principle I think has been forgotten and this may nmot apply to new words added in recent editions - or the word may be defined only by pointing back to the entry that mentioned it. 4) The definitions have gotten too wordy. This is probably an attemppt to make them more exact but this is done by throwing in extra clauses into the middle of a definitio. 5) The illustrations are all in black and white, even for the eye, in spite f the fact that the 1982 Pocket edition had several color plates. 6) There is a lot f extra white space on the pages. To me this just looks like a reduction in quality. This is not more user friendly. User frinedly would be ease in speed of looking something up and understanding. The dictionary as a whole almost seems l like the target audience the publisher now has in mind is an experienced physician who may once every month or three look up ONE word. That is not for whom a dictionary should be designed for. rather it should be a student or educated layperson. I'm keeping on using my old dictionaries. For anything new I can probably find glossaries in a book. There may not be now any good medical dictionary on the market or if there is it is probably pbscure. Overall also I should say paperbacks or Permabond type covers are better than hardcover. Not only do they weight more, but I think the dust jacket of a hardcover is more easily damaged than the cover of a paperback.

The best medical dictionary., 23 Aug 1998
Dorland's and Stedman's are the two premier medical dictionaries. Any physician or other person who requires frequent reference to medical definitions should probably own both (I do). Both books have occasional errors; each book has terms that the other lacks; and each book has some definitions that are superior to the those in the other. However, if you purchase only one, I recommend Dorland's. In my opinion, Dorland's has definitions for more terms, better definitions and fewer errors.

Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

essential, 27 Dec 2007
I had a copy of this book at uni but didn't truly appreciate it until my first nightshifts as a houseofficer... The book contains a wealth of up to date info about medical emergencies in an easy to read and understand format, and is probably useful for all medical staff no matter what specialty or grade - FY1s and 2s will thank their lucky stars for this book, as will more experienced doctors who need a review of seat-of-your-pants medicine. Those grim nightshifts when your senior is stuck in A&E and you're faced with a patient as sick as a dog will seem less intimidating thanks to this addition to the OH series.

it can also just about fit in the back pocket of your scrubs!

Perfect for use in conjunction with essential guide to acute care by cooper / cramp

A real acute medicine., 02 Jun 2005
Only truly used and verified clinical knowledge. I trust this book, its realy up to date, good problem approach, reliable. Does not make me confused as many others when I check a problem. Worth every single penny.

comprehensive, authoritative, 01 Apr 2005
The new edition of the OHAM is a very welcome revision indeed. The first edition was starting to feel rather dated.

For the most part is extremely comprehenisive, covering everything for altitude sickness to COPD exacerbations. The information is always well presented and reasonably succinct. It really does follow on nicely from the OHCM.

Of course there are problems- the text has become more prose-like and less bullet pointy. This means that whilst it is a 'pocketbook', it really is best read at home before and after the event to dissect out what may/went wrong. Nevertheless it is useful in making sure you haven't forgotten anything during an on-call.

The book includes a section of respiratory support- this is esentially principle based and is of little use in an actual emergency. The practical management information the book provides would be enough for an SPR who was not working in their chosen field i think. Obviously each hospital has its own guidelines which no doubt deviate from this text.

The main book to compare it with is the 'Acute Medicine: A Practical Guide to the Management of Medical Emergencies'

Overall, the OHAM is more detailed and comprehensive, HOWEVER - the other book is far more practical and offers extremely valuable management algorithms.
In short, you must use BOTH books........

Clearing the acute medical minefield, 07 May 2004
As a newly qualified Nurse Practitioner working in an acute medical setting this book is a fantastic help. Clear, consise and fits in your pocket.Not just for Doctors but all health professionals with an extended role. It will save you at 3 am!!

extremely useful, 05 Mar 2000
this is as good as the yellow handbook of clinical medicine but this gives you the signposts you need as a SHO on call , wheras the yellow book is rather more simple. They do complement each other though. Really useful as a checklist for making sure you have done everything that is needed as an emergency.

WOW! Get a copy of this for your school/college/university/work bag, 13 Feb 2008
Now at university, I have used a version of this book since i first found it when doing A-level PE. Then i was using the first edition, when i prgoressed onto a degree in Sports Studies I started using the second edition and now as a student can't afford this newer version of a fantastic resource. This book gives a good clear understandable description of almost everything you could want to know within the field of sports science and medicine. A great book to go to first for any study of a specific topic, or even just to have next to you when ready, nay, sifting through a thick text book. A great 'primary' secondary research text. Recommended on the highest level. Even better in hardback.


A Vital Book For Sports Science Students!!!, 19 Jan 2008
This dictionary is just what I've been looking for! For essays and assignments this has been a life saver for checking up definitions of sports science related words and phrases.

I've found the Oxford Dictionary of Sports and Medicine to be the best book i've ever bought for my degree! But, this book will not only be great for me during my university years, but also would be a great buy to use for GCSE and A-levels as it's not too complicated and explains everything you'd ever need to know!

I don't know what i'd do without this book to be honest! It definitly beats wikipedia and google when searching for words and phrases related to Sports Science hands down!

I would recommend this book to virtually anyone who is doing a sports related degree or course at university, college or school!

Excellent Book for Sports Science Lecturers, 15 Jan 2002
This dictionary contains almost every sports science, anatomy/physiology, biomechanic,, injuries description, and pschological term as related to sports medicine/science. It is very comprehensive and is a must for any student or teacher's bookshelf. A dictionary that will not be dated in a few years. Great investment.

Excellent!, 21 Jun 2004
Completely overhauled for this new edition, this is a top-notch medical dictionary; coloured illustrations, photographs and tables are all used selectively to highlight points and facilitate understanding. The dictionary comes with a CD-ROM allowing you to install an e-book version on your PDA and a spell-checker on your PC. Both the e-book and spell-checker are easy to install and use, although both require web-access from your PC for installation.
The PDA version is a shortened version of the paper-based dictionary. The apparent lack of diagrams on the PDA version is a bit of a shame. In terms of searching for a word or abbreviation there is the usual index. The index is complemented with a search facility; this greatly speeds-up the ability to look-up words. As per the paper version there are also links between related definitions - flicking to and through these different links is easier on the PDA.
The spell-checker slots neatly into Microsoft Word and Microsoft Office - it contains all the words in the dictionary, and works well in Word XP. The installation even includes a test document to determine whether the installation was successful - a nice thoughtful touch.

Excellent Medical Dictionary, 16 Mar 1999
I have used the Dorland's Medical Dictionary for 25 years working in a hospital transcription position. This dictionary makes looking up words easy and in most cases I could find what I was looking for in here when I could not find it in the Stedman's. I am buying books for working at home and this is one of my first choices.

This was very disappointing, 23 Feb 1999
I was very disappointed when I got this dictionary. I had before the 1937 17th edition and the 1982 pocket edition. This edition shows you what cann happen when a book goes through many editions. Among the things wrong were: 1) The book is oversized and bulky to handle. 2) It is printed on what may be positiveley the worst sort of paper for a medical dictionary or other alphabetically rganized reference book. The pages are a bit hard to separate and are very easily badly wrinkled by water. I worried about whether Amazon com would let me return it after I damaged one page but they said okay. I have very rarely seen any book printed on paper like it or close to it except for some Bibles. 3) It is an important principle of a good medical dictionary that evry word used in a definition should itself be defined (although that will send a novice looking through half a dozen or more entries, the person will learn and it's valueable) This principle I think has been forgotten and this may nmot apply to new words added in recent editions - or the word may be defined only by pointing back to the entry that mentioned it. 4) The definitions have gotten too wordy. This is probably an attemppt to make them more exact but this is done by throwing in extra clauses into the middle of a definitio. 5) The illustrations are all in black and white, even for the eye, in spite f the fact that the 1982 Pocket edition had several color plates. 6) There is a lot f extra white space on the pages. To me this just looks like a reduction in quality. This is not more user friendly. User frinedly would be ease in speed of looking something up and understanding. The dictionary as a whole almost seems l like the target audience the publisher now has in mind is an experienced physician who may once every month or three look up ONE word. That is not for whom a dictionary should be designed for. rather it should be a student or educated layperson. I'm keeping on using my old dictionaries. For anything new I can probably find glossaries in a book. There may not be now any good medical dictionary on the market or if there is it is probably pbscure. Overall also I should say paperbacks or Permabond type covers are better than hardcover. Not only do they weight more, but I think the dust jacket of a hardcover is more easily damaged than the cover of a paperback.

The best medical dictionary., 23 Aug 1998
Dorland's and Stedman's are the two premier medical dictionaries. Any physician or other person who requires frequent reference to medical definitions should probably own both (I do). Both books have occasional errors; each book has terms that the other lacks; and each book has some definitions that are superior to the those in the other. However, if you purchase only one, I recommend Dorland's. In my opinion, Dorland's has definitions for more terms, better definitions and fewer errors.

A brilliant study aid !, 29 Aug 2002
I purchased this book during the last few months of studying towards my degree in public health. It was one of the most helpful books I have found within this field.

It covers all essential up-to-date topics including - community development, needs assessment, leadership and management issues. The section on developing public health strategies is particularly worth mentioning and includes a step-by-step approach on how to achieve effective public health measures.

It also provides a good source of further references to other related articles and books which was also very worthwhile. The layout is simple yet effective, easy to understand which made it a fantastic study aid for exams.

It is small and compact which means you can take it with you at all times, as I have and it has proved invaluable during the first months of my employment in the field of public health. This book would appeal to all persons involved in public health at present as it provides information that can be used on many levels, from student to practitioner.

Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

essential, 27 Dec 2007
I had a copy of this book at uni but didn't truly appreciate it until my first nightshifts as a houseofficer... The book contains a wealth of up to date info about medical emergencies in an easy to read and understand format, and is probably useful for all medical staff no matter what specialty or grade - FY1s and 2s will thank their lucky stars for this book, as will more experienced doctors who need a review of seat-of-your-pants medicine. Those grim nightshifts when your senior is stuck in A&E and you're faced with a patient as sick as a dog will seem less intimidating thanks to this addition to the OH series.

it can also just about fit in the back pocket of your scrubs!

Perfect for use in conjunction with essential guide to acute care by cooper / cramp

A real acute medicine., 02 Jun 2005
Only truly used and verified clinical knowledge. I trust this book, its realy up to date, good problem approach, reliable. Does not make me confused as many others when I check a problem. Worth every single penny.

comprehensive, authoritative, 01 Apr 2005
The new edition of the OHAM is a very welcome revision indeed. The first edition was starting to feel rather dated.

For the most part is extremely comprehenisive, covering everything for altitude sickness to COPD exacerbations. The information is always well presented and reasonably succinct. It really does follow on nicely from the OHCM.

Of course there are problems- the text has become more prose-like and less bullet pointy. This means that whilst it is a 'pocketbook', it really is best read at home before and after the event to dissect out what may/went wrong. Nevertheless it is useful in making sure you haven't forgotten anything during an on-call.

The book includes a section of respiratory support- this is esentially principle based and is of little use in an actual emergency. The practical management information the book provides would be enough for an SPR who was not working in their chosen field i think. Obviously each hospital has its own guidelines which no doubt deviate from this text.

The main book to compare it with is the 'Acute Medicine: A Practical Guide to the Management of Medical Emergencies'

Overall, the OHAM is more detailed and comprehensive, HOWEVER - the other book is far more practical and offers extremely valuable management algorithms.
In short, you must use BOTH books........

Clearing the acute medical minefield, 07 May 2004
As a newly qualified Nurse Practitioner working in an acute medical setting this book is a fantastic help. Clear, consise and fits in your pocket.Not just for Doctors but all health professionals with an extended role. It will save you at 3 am!!

extremely useful, 05 Mar 2000
this is as good as the yellow handbook of clinical medicine but this gives you the signposts you need as a SHO on call , wheras the yellow book is rather more simple. They do complement each other though. Really useful as a checklist for making sure you have done everything that is needed as an emergency.

WOW! Get a copy of this for your school/college/university/work bag, 13 Feb 2008
Now at university, I have used a version of this book since i first found it when doing A-level PE. Then i was using the first edition, when i prgoressed onto a degree in Sports Studies I started using the second edition and now as a student can't afford this newer version of a fantastic resource. This book gives a good clear understandable description of almost everything you could want to know within the field of sports science and medicine. A great book to go to first for any study of a specific topic, or even just to have next to you when ready, nay, sifting through a thick text book. A great 'primary' secondary research text. Recommended on the highest level. Even better in hardback.


A Vital Book For Sports Science Students!!!, 19 Jan 2008
This dictionary is just what I've been looking for! For essays and assignments this has been a life saver for checking up definitions of sports science related words and phrases.

I've found the Oxford Dictionary of Sports and Medicine to be the best book i've ever bought for my degree! But, this book will not only be great for me during my university years, but also would be a great buy to use for GCSE and A-levels as it's not too complicated and explains everything you'd ever need to know!

I don't know what i'd do without this book to be honest! It definitly beats wikipedia and google when searching for words and phrases related to Sports Science hands down!

I would recommend this book to virtually anyone who is doing a sports related degree or course at university, college or school!

Excellent Book for Sports Science Lecturers, 15 Jan 2002
This dictionary contains almost every sports science, anatomy/physiology, biomechanic,, injuries description, and pschological term as related to sports medicine/science. It is very comprehensive and is a must for any student or teacher's bookshelf. A dictionary that will not be dated in a few years. Great investment.

Excellent!, 21 Jun 2004
Completely overhauled for this new edition, this is a top-notch medical dictionary; coloured illustrations, photographs and tables are all used selectively to highlight points and facilitate understanding. The dictionary comes with a CD-ROM allowing you to install an e-book version on your PDA and a spell-checker on your PC. Both the e-book and spell-checker are easy to install and use, although both require web-access from your PC for installation.
The PDA version is a shortened version of the paper-based dictionary. The apparent lack of diagrams on the PDA version is a bit of a shame. In terms of searching for a word or abbreviation there is the usual index. The index is complemented with a search facility; this greatly speeds-up the ability to look-up words. As per the paper version there are also links between related definitions - flicking to and through these different links is easier on the PDA.
The spell-checker slots neatly into Microsoft Word and Microsoft Office - it contains all the words in the dictionary, and works well in Word XP. The installation even includes a test document to determine whether the installation was successful - a nice thoughtful touch.

Excellent Medical Dictionary, 16 Mar 1999
I have used the Dorland's Medical Dictionary for 25 years working in a hospital transcription position. This dictionary makes looking up words easy and in most cases I could find what I was looking for in here when I could not find it in the Stedman's. I am buying books for working at home and this is one of my first choices.

This was very disappointing, 23 Feb 1999
I was very disappointed when I got this dictionary. I had before the 1937 17th edition and the 1982 pocket edition. This edition shows you what cann happen when a book goes through many editions. Among the things wrong were: 1) The book is oversized and bulky to handle. 2) It is printed on what may be positiveley the worst sort of paper for a medical dictionary or other alphabetically rganized reference book. The pages are a bit hard to separate and are very easily badly wrinkled by water. I worried about whether Amazon com would let me return it after I damaged one page but they said okay. I have very rarely seen any book printed on paper like it or close to it except for some Bibles. 3) It is an important principle of a good medical dictionary that evry word used in a definition should itself be defined (although that will send a novice looking through half a dozen or more entries, the person will learn and it's valueable) This principle I think has been forgotten and this may nmot apply to new words added in recent editions - or the word may be defined only by pointing back to the entry that mentioned it. 4) The definitions have gotten too wordy. This is probably an attemppt to make them more exact but this is done by throwing in extra clauses into the middle of a definitio. 5) The illustrations are all in black and white, even for the eye, in spite f the fact that the 1982 Pocket edition had several color plates. 6) There is a lot f extra white space on the pages. To me this just looks like a reduction in quality. This is not more user friendly. User frinedly would be ease in speed of looking something up and understanding. The dictionary as a whole almost seems l like the target audience the publisher now has in mind is an experienced physician who may once every month or three look up ONE word. That is not for whom a dictionary should be designed for. rather it should be a student or educated layperson. I'm keeping on using my old dictionaries. For anything new I can probably find glossaries in a book. There may not be now any good medical dictionary on the market or if there is it is probably pbscure. Overall also I should say paperbacks or Permabond type covers are better than hardcover. Not only do they weight more, but I think the dust jacket of a hardcover is more easily damaged than the cover of a paperback.

The best medical dictionary., 23 Aug 1998
Dorland's and Stedman's are the two premier medical dictionaries. Any physician or other person who requires frequent reference to medical definitions should probably own both (I do). Both books have occasional errors; each book has terms that the other lacks; and each book has some definitions that are superior to the those in the other. However, if you purchase only one, I recommend Dorland's. In my opinion, Dorland's has definitions for more terms, better definitions and fewer errors.

A brilliant study aid !, 29 Aug 2002
I purchased this book during the last few months of studying towards my degree in public health. It was one of the most helpful books I have found within this field.

It covers all essential up-to-date topics including - community development, needs assessment, leadership and management issues. The section on developing public health strategies is particularly worth mentioning and includes a step-by-step approach on how to achieve effective public health measures.

It also provides a good source of further references to other related articles and books which was also very worthwhile. The layout is simple yet effective, easy to understand which made it a fantastic study aid for exams.

It is small and compact which means you can take it with you at all times, as I have and it has proved invaluable during the first months of my employment in the field of public health. This book would appeal to all persons involved in public health at present as it provides information that can be used on many levels, from student to practitioner.

handy reference to have, 18 Feb 2002
This book is quite useful to have as a quick reference. It contains many definitions of conditions. It contains over 300 pages of appendices, which include: general acronyms and abbreviations, diseases, pathologies and syndromes defined, the bones of the body and rang of motion. But many of the appendices are aimed towards American occupational therapists.

Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

essential, 27 Dec 2007
I had a copy of this book at uni but didn't truly appreciate it until my first nightshifts as a houseofficer... The book contains a wealth of up to date info about medical emergencies in an easy to read and understand format, and is probably useful for all medical staff no matter what specialty or grade - FY1s and 2s will thank their lucky stars for this book, as will more experienced doctors who need a review of seat-of-your-pants medicine. Those grim nightshifts when your senior is stuck in A&E and you're faced with a patient as sick as a dog will seem less intimidating thanks to this addition to the OH series.

it can also just about fit in the back pocket of your scrubs!

Perfect for use in conjunction with essential guide to acute care by cooper / cramp

A real acute medicine., 02 Jun 2005
Only truly used and verified clinical knowledge. I trust this book, its realy up to date, good problem approach, reliable. Does not make me confused as many others when I check a problem. Worth every single penny.

comprehensive, authoritative, 01 Apr 2005
The new edition of the OHAM is a very welcome revision indeed. The first edition was starting to feel rather dated.

For the most part is extremely comprehenisive, covering everything for altitude sickness to COPD exacerbations. The information is always well presented and reasonably succinct. It really does follow on nicely from the OHCM.

Of course there are problems- the text has become more prose-like and less bullet pointy. This means that whilst it is a 'pocketbook', it really is best read at home before and after the event to dissect out what may/went wrong. Nevertheless it is useful in making sure you haven't forgotten anything during an on-call.

The book includes a section of respiratory support- this is esentially principle based and is of little use in an actual emergency. The practical management information the book provides would be enough for an SPR who was not working in their chosen field i think. Obviously each hospital has its own guidelines which no doubt deviate from this text.

The main book to compare it with is the 'Acute Medicine: A Practical Guide to the Management of Medical Emergencies'

Overall, the OHAM is more detailed and comprehensive, HOWEVER - the other book is far more practical and offers extremely valuable management algorithms.
In short, you must use BOTH books........

Clearing the acute medical minefield, 07 May 2004
As a newly qualified Nurse Practitioner working in an acute medical setting this book is a fantastic help. Clear, consise and fits in your pocket.Not just for Doctors but all health professionals with an extended role. It will save you at 3 am!!

extremely useful, 05 Mar 2000
this is as good as the yellow handbook of clinical medicine but this gives you the signposts you need as a SHO on call , wheras the yellow book is rather more simple. They do complement each other though. Really useful as a checklist for making sure you have done everything that is needed as an emergency.

WOW! Get a copy of this for your school/college/university/work bag, 13 Feb 2008
Now at university, I have used a version of this book since i first found it when doing A-level PE. Then i was using the first edition, when i prgoressed onto a degree in Sports Studies I started using the second edition and now as a student can't afford this newer version of a fantastic resource. This book gives a good clear understandable description of almost everything you could want to know within the field of sports science and medicine. A great book to go to first for any study of a specific topic, or even just to have next to you when ready, nay, sifting through a thick text book. A great 'primary' secondary research text. Recommended on the highest level. Even better in hardback.


A Vital Book For Sports Science Students!!!, 19 Jan 2008
This dictionary is just what I've been looking for! For essays and assignments this has been a life saver for checking up definitions of sports science related words and phrases.

I've found the Oxford Dictionary of Sports and Medicine to be the best book i've ever bought for my degree! But, this book will not only be great for me during my university years, but also would be a great buy to use for GCSE and A-levels as it's not too complicated and explains everything you'd ever need to know!

I don't know what i'd do without this book to be honest! It definitly beats wikipedia and google when searching for words and phrases related to Sports Science hands down!

I would recommend this book to virtually anyone who is doing a sports related degree or course at university, college or school!

Excellent Book for Sports Science Lecturers, 15 Jan 2002
This dictionary contains almost every sports science, anatomy/physiology, biomechanic,, injuries description, and pschological term as related to sports medicine/science. It is very comprehensive and is a must for any student or teacher's bookshelf. A dictionary that will not be dated in a few years. Great investment.

Excellent!, 21 Jun 2004
Completely overhauled for this new edition, this is a top-notch medical dictionary; coloured illustrations, photographs and tables are all used selectively to highlight points and facilitate understanding. The dictionary comes with a CD-ROM allowing you to install an e-book version on your PDA and a spell-checker on your PC. Both the e-book and spell-checker are easy to install and use, although both require web-access from your PC for installation.
The PDA version is a shortened version of the paper-based dictionary. The apparent lack of diagrams on the PDA version is a bit of a shame. In terms of searching for a word or abbreviation there is the usual index. The index is complemented with a search facility; this greatly speeds-up the ability to look-up words. As per the paper version there are also links between related definitions - flicking to and through these different links is easier on the PDA.
The spell-checker slots neatly into Microsoft Word and Microsoft Office - it contains all the words in the dictionary, and works well in Word XP. The installation even includes a test document to determine whether the installation was successful - a nice thoughtful touch.

Excellent Medical Dictionary, 16 Mar 1999
I have used the Dorland's Medical Dictionary for 25 years working in a hospital transcription position. This dictionary makes looking up words easy and in most cases I could find what I was looking for in here when I could not find it in the Stedman's. I am buying books for working at home and this is one of my first choices.

This was very disappointing, 23 Feb 1999
I was very disappointed when I got this dictionary. I had before the 1937 17th edition and the 1982 pocket edition. This edition shows you what cann happen when a book goes through many editions. Among the things wrong were: 1) The book is oversized and bulky to handle. 2) It is printed on what may be positiveley the worst sort of paper for a medical dictionary or other alphabetically rganized reference book. The pages are a bit hard to separate and are very easily badly wrinkled by water. I worried about whether Amazon com would let me return it after I damaged one page but they said okay. I have very rarely seen any book printed on paper like it or close to it except for some Bibles. 3) It is an important principle of a good medical dictionary that evry word used in a definition should itself be defined (although that will send a novice looking through half a dozen or more entries, the person will learn and it's valueable) This principle I think has been forgotten and this may nmot apply to new words added in recent editions - or the word may be defined only by pointing back to the entry that mentioned it. 4) The definitions have gotten too wordy. This is probably an attemppt to make them more exact but this is done by throwing in extra clauses into the middle of a definitio. 5) The illustrations are all in black and white, even for the eye, in spite f the fact that the 1982 Pocket edition had several color plates. 6) There is a lot f extra white space on the pages. To me this just looks like a reduction in quality. This is not more user friendly. User frinedly would be ease in speed of looking something up and understanding. The dictionary as a whole almost seems l like the target audience the publisher now has in mind is an experienced physician who may once every month or three look up ONE word. That is not for whom a dictionary should be designed for. rather it should be a student or educated layperson. I'm keeping on using my old dictionaries. For anything new I can probably find glossaries in a book. There may not be now any good medical dictionary on the market or if there is it is probably pbscure. Overall also I should say paperbacks or Permabond type covers are better than hardcover. Not only do they weight more, but I think the dust jacket of a hardcover is more easily damaged than the cover of a paperback.

The best medical dictionary., 23 Aug 1998
Dorland's and Stedman's are the two premier medical dictionaries. Any physician or other person who requires frequent reference to medical definitions should probably own both (I do). Both books have occasional errors; each book has terms that the other lacks; and each book has some definitions that are superior to the those in the other. However, if you purchase only one, I recommend Dorland's. In my opinion, Dorland's has definitions for more terms, better definitions and fewer errors.

A brilliant study aid !, 29 Aug 2002
I purchased this book during the last few months of studying towards my degree in public health. It was one of the most helpful books I have found within this field.

It covers all essential up-to-date topics including - community development, needs assessment, leadership and management issues. The section on developing public health strategies is particularly worth mentioning and includes a step-by-step approach on how to achieve effective public health measures.

It also provides a good source of further references to other related articles and books which was also very worthwhile. The layout is simple yet effective, easy to understand which made it a fantastic study aid for exams.

It is small and compact which means you can take it with you at all times, as I have and it has proved invaluable during the first months of my employment in the field of public health. This book would appeal to all persons involved in public health at present as it provides information that can be used on many levels, from student to practitioner.

handy reference to have, 18 Feb 2002
This book is quite useful to have as a quick reference. It contains many definitions of conditions. It contains over 300 pages of appendices, which include: general acronyms and abbreviations, diseases, pathologies and syndromes defined, the bones of the body and rang of motion. But many of the appendices are aimed towards American occupational therapists.

Excellent authoritative book, 24 Dec 2006
Written by a former president of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, this is a fairly comprehensive yet user friendly guide (for all) to herbs and their therapeutic use in humans. You'll need to use the index at the back, unless you're familiar with the latin binominal name of the plant you are looking for, but it IS otherwise a very good book if you're looking for one general herbal as an aide to personal use.

Chevallier's Encyclopedia of herbal Medicines, 25 Feb 2003
This book is very interesting, and well illustrated, helping in the recognition of the various described herbs. Chevallier also includes some more unusual herbs although these are in less detail to the more common place herbs, which are thoroughly covered. Pharmacology and clinical trials are not described in great detail in this book, however it is an enjoyable read for someone with a keen interest in herbal medicine, and gives good coverage of a wide range of herbs without being over scientific.

Excellent, 30 Nov 2006
I am a Paramedic & find this to be an invaluable reference that is small enough to be carried around. It explains things clearly & simply, so would also be useful for the layperson.

A good introduction but I'm sure there are better out there, 16 Aug 2006
I am presently studying a Pitmans Medical Secretarial and Audio Transcription course and was given this dictionary as part of my course.I already have a knowledge of (human) biology so know a lot of the terminology and their meanings but am obviously coming across a lot of terminology I am not familiar with and which are not in the book but their abbreviations are.This I am finding confusing because I am not sure if the abbreviation has the same meaning as the word I am meant to use and find myself a majority of the time 'googling' for the word and terminology or using an online medical dictionary which at times does not have the words I am looking for either.There are a lot of words missing that I feel should be there such as 'radius' and 'ulna' and other body parts and there are words in the dictionary I personally don't think should be there such as 'cyberstalking' and 'e-mail'.The advantage with this book is its size and the hardwearing plastic cover-a good size for both the pocket and bag but I am sure there are other and better medical dictionaries available which I myself will look for.I have given this book 3 out 5 because it is a good introduction if a person is starting out as either a medical secretary or in the medical profession but I would strongly recommend looking for and purchasing a better medical dictionary, even if it is larger than this particular book.Hopefully the 25th edition will be better revised.

Bailliere's Nurses Dictionary, 07 Dec 2005
As an Occupational Therapist of many years I still constantly come across terminology that leaves my head spinning! This dictionary is invaluable in helping me to understand what problems some of my clients might face thus helping me to help them. I find that my students also find it useful.

A god send!, 02 Jan 2005
I bought this because I am doing a reflexology course and found that some words in my anatomy and physiology books just dont make sense! This is an absolute god send, it explains words in laymans terms. I dont know what I would have done without it.

Even us scientists need help!, 12 Jul 2004
As a Biomedical scientist working in a medical laboratory, you will often find yourself coming across terms that are either new to you or which you know but do not fully understand. A copy of Baillierie's Nurses' Dictionary was purchased for me at Christmas and I can trully say that it has been the most useful present, which I have received. There are still some terms missing, which would come in useful but I'm sure will be added in future editions, but for the size of book has an amazing amount of content with the addition of some useful appendices. Recommended for nurses and anyone who needs to come to terms with medical terminology (including scientists).

essential, 27 Dec 2007
I had a copy of this book at uni but didn't truly appreciate it until my first nightshifts as a houseofficer... The book contains a wealth of up to date info about medical emergencies in an easy to read and understand format, and is probably useful for all medical staff no matter what specialty or grade - FY1s and 2s will thank their lucky stars for this book, as will more experienced doctors who need a review of seat-of-your-pants medicine. Those grim nightshifts when your senior is stuck in A&E and you're faced with a patient as sick as a dog will seem less intimidating thanks to this addition to the OH series.

it can also just about fit in the back pocket of your scrubs!

Perfect for use in conjunction with essential guide to acute care by cooper / cramp

A real acute medicine., 02 Jun 2005
Only truly used and verified clinical knowledge. I trust this book, its realy up to date, good problem approach, reliable. Does not make me confused as many others when I check a problem. Worth every single penny.

comprehensive, authoritative, 01 Apr 2005
The new edition of the OHAM is a very welcome revision indeed. The first edition was starting to feel rather dated.

For the most part is extremely comprehenisive, covering everything for altitude sickness to COPD exacerbations. The information is always well presented and reasonably succinct. It really does follow on nicely from the OHCM.

Of course there are problems- the text has become more prose-like and less bullet pointy. This means that whilst it is a 'pocketbook', it really is best read at home before and after the event to dissect out what may/went wrong. Nevertheless it is useful in making sure you haven't forgotten anything during an on-call.

The book includes a section of respiratory support- this is esentially principle based and is of little use in an actual emergency. The practical management information the book provides would be enough for an SPR who was not working in their chosen field i think. Obviously each hospital has its own guidelines which no doubt deviate from this text.

The main book to compare it with is the 'Acute Medicine: A Practical Guide to the Management of Medical Emergencies'

Overall, the OHAM is more detailed and comprehensive, HOWEVER - the other book is far more practical and offers extremely valuable management algorithms.
In short, you must use BOTH books........

Clearing the acute medical minefield, 07 May 2004
As a newly qualified Nurse Practitioner working in an acute medical setting this book is a fantastic help. Clear, consise and fits in your pocket.Not just for Doctors but all health professionals with an extended role. It will save you at 3 am!!

extremely useful, 05 Mar 2000
this is as good as the yellow handbook of clinical medicine but this gives you the signposts you need as a SHO on call , wheras the yellow book is rather more simple. They do complement each other though. Really useful as a checklist for making sure you have done everything that is needed as an emergency.

WOW! Get a copy of this for your school/college/university/work bag, 13 Feb 2008
Now at university, I have used a version of this book since i first found it when doing A-level PE. Then i was using the first edition, when i prgoressed onto a degree in Sports Studies I started using the second edition and now as a student can't afford this newer version of a fantastic resource. This book gives a good clear understandable description of almost everything you could want to know within the field of sports science and medicine. A great book to go to first for any study of a specific topic, or even just to have next to you when ready, nay, sifting through a thick text book. A great 'primary' secondary research text. Recommended on the highest level. Even better in hardback.


A Vital Book For Sports Science Students!!!, 19 Jan 2008
This dictionary is just what I've been looking for! For essays and assignments this has been a life saver for checking up definitions of sports science related words and phrases.

I've found the Oxford Dictionary of Sports and Medicine to be the best book i've ever bought for my degree! But, this book will not only be great for me during my university years, but also would be a great buy to use for GCSE and A-levels as it's not too complicated and explains everything you'd ever need to know!

I don't know what i'd do without this book to be honest! It definitly beats wikipedia and google when searching for words and phrases related to Sports Science hands down!

I would recommend this book to virtually anyon