The classic Sister Laurine Graff textbook A Handbook of Routine Urinalysis has finally been updated and revised for the long-awaited second edition. The expanded, revised text now has chapters reviewing human renal anatomy, physiology and urine formation along with an overview of body fluids. Learning objectives, study questions, case study questions, and an updated list of references are now incorporated in the text. These are excellent additions for the student who will perform urinalysis for human patients, but dulls in value to the veterinary-oriented student.
The true beauty of the text, both old and new, is the selection of images and charts that fill page upon page. The new edition hosts all the images and charts that made the original text a must have for any laboratory performing urinalysis, while incorporating some new images and information perfect for a laboratory reference guide. The text now boasts 190 color images and 440 illustrations. The classic images have been used by countless medical technologists and other laboratory professionals for over twenty years aiding in the identification of rare crystals, unusual sediment structures and contaminants from the collection process. The charts that accompany the images lend helpful facts that compliment the images in the identification process and range from line drawings of alternate shapes and forms of common crystals to the pH and solubility properties most commonly observed with each type of crystal.
The text also provides an informative chapter on the chemical analysis of urine, discussing dipstick reactions, interpretation and troubleshooting. This is a valuable chapter as most of the information is pertinent to the veterinary application of the dipsticks. A well-understood testing process always yields better laboratory data, and in the case of the dipstick, there is no exception. The mechanism of the reactions, interpretation information and troubleshooting of the reactions and data are discussed and should be read by all who perform this type of testing. Although the chemical dipstick analysis of urine appears simplistic and straightforward, sophisticated processes occur in the testing pads that require understanding and evaluation for excellent patient results. There is also a short chapter discussing the proper operation of a laboratory performing urinalysis. Although some of the discussion relates only to human laboratories, hazards, responsible handling of chemicals and quality control issues should be noted by the reader as important, pertinent guidelines for any laboratory and its employees.
As an owner of several copies of the Graff text, both old and new, I must heartily endorse this text as a required reference for a laboratory performing urinalysis. In our lab, there are “seasoned” medical technicians that have each performed urinalysis for over 15 years, and yet the Graff text is a constant companion on the desk during urinalysis evaluations. You never know what you are going to find in a sediment, but Sister Graff, Lillian Mundt and Kristy Shanahan help take the angst out of the identification process and help the lab do its job… better.
Publisher: Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins
ISBN-13: 978-1-5828-5875-2
ISBN-10: 1-5825-5875-2