BOOK REVIEWS

TEAM LEADERSHIP IN ACTION. PRINCIPLES AND APPLICATION TO STAFF NURSING SIT- UATIONS, WacDouglas, Laura and Beuis, Em Oliuia: St. Louis: C. V . Mosby Co., 1970. Today’s nurse is expected to be a leader in whatever position she finds herself. Unfor- tunately, schools of nursing expect employers to provide preparation for leadership, and employers expect new graduates to function as leaders from the first day of employment.

The purpose of this book, then, according to the authors, is to “attempt to elaborate a theoretical framework for staff nursing that will enable the nurse to mobilize all available resources for the benefit of those who are in need of health service.” Other goals are to provide a body of knowledge which will supply a theoretical framework of administra- tive principles in day-to-day nursing activi- ties; and to promote in the nurse practitioner a habit of mind which will transform the nurse utilizing these knowledges and methods into an effective leader. These objectives are met through a consideration of the staff nurse as a team leader, and the formulation and utilization of principles necessary for effective team functioning.

Chapter one introduces the reader to the theoretical framework for the nurse leader, and by tone and systematic presentation, it

encourages even the student or new graduate to continue reading.

The other chapters are concerned with principles of leadership, teaching and learn- ing, group dynamics, delegation of authority, effective conferences and evaluation of per- sonnel.

This book is highly readable, interesting, informative and the content is presented in a manner which flows logically from step to step. The use of various type styles clarifies the material, and an extensive bibliography is provided.

All nurses in active practice can profit by a thoughtful reading and application of the principles outlined in this book. It can also serve as a textbook for students learning about future leadership roles. The book could also serve as the basis of an excellent inservice program for nurses.

SR. DOLORES KANE, RN Chicago, I11

LAW AND THE SURGICAL TEAM, Wasmuth, Carl E., MD, JD and Wasmuth, Carl E. Jr., PhD, LLB: Baltimore: The Williams and Wilkins Co., 1969. This long awaited book relating to the law and the responsibilities of various members of the health team in the operating room is a must

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volume for any surgical suite. The messages contained in the foreword and preface are most reassuring to those concerned with liability as applied to the practice of medicine in the operating room. It is not a “scare” volume, but one which gives valuable assis- tance to those in anesthesiology (which is Dr Wasmuth‘s specialty), surgeons, and eack person employed by the hospital.

The chapter entitled “The Surgical Team ir the Operating Room” should be read bj professionals and nonprofessionals alike They will find it invaluable, reassuring, easq reading with many case examples. It wil strengthen the need for routines, standards 0‘

care, infection avoidance and equipmen maintenance. It stresses the relationship of thc surgical team to the patient, and that of thc hospital to the patient.

MABEL CRAWFORD, RR Los Angeles, Calij

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