A comprehensive manual that will help you understand the basics of oxygen delivery systems and mechanical ventilation

-Concise and easy chapters

-Black and white illustrations

-Informative graphs and tables

Based on a true story set in urban New York City pre-September 11th, a Paramedic of NYC EMS finds his world suddenly turned upside down by a series of in-the-line-of-duty events. In an effort to understand what brought him there, he begins reconnecting the events in his work and personal life that created this unforeseen scenario. Facing daily crises and how they apply to how he entered this line of work, readers are also shown the closeness by which is felt and experienced working in such close proximity to those who face death and destruction together as a team daily. Comforted and kept together by his female mate, readers are taken through the sometimes playing field and often minefield of emergency medical services in New York City; and what it means to be a Member of the Service.

This book was created to share the human condition of 911 EMTs and paramedics, their camaraderie, bravery and skill. Although September 11, 2001, claimed at least eight lives of these specialized rescuers, not even this was enough to direct attention toward the New York City Emergency Technicians and Paramedics who lost their lives daily or were permanently scarred in the line of duty. The title of "Hero" for those that died and those that are out there every day risking their lives to save others existed long before September 10th changed calendar days, and this book is an offering to share that view.

The author held a unique position in the history of UK ambulance service development, commencing his career as an ambulance in 1962, rising to the top position of Chief Officer in eight years, becoming a central figure in the significant professional development of the service for another twenty-nine years, making him the UKÕs longest serving Chief Officer of any of the main emergency services. He has a very personal insight into all the policy decisions affecting the service over that period and of the many trials and tribulations behind many of the decisions leading to the modern paramedical ambulance service reflected in today's modern ambulance service.

A people person, the author shares his experiences right from early childhood, which he believes influenced his management style and subsequent successes in introducing new and often radical change, whilst taking his workforce with him, often against strong national and local political opposition.

The book clearly defines the progress of ambulance services since the inception of the National Health Service in 1948 up until his retirement in1999. It illustrates both the technical and procedural techniques used to modernise what is and always will be a publicly sensitive and essential emergency service. As such, it provides a much needed professional historical record of the ambulance service in the last half of the twentieth century, from someone who lived the experience first hand.

The author draws on his particular management style and experiences, relating them back to his formative childhood years and shares some hitherto unknown behind the scenes facts with the reader. The book succeeds in informing the health care professional about the ambulance service and its modern day role in the community and yet also provides a valuable insight for students studying for a University Management Degree, whether in Health Service management or general management. It is fascinating reading, not least because the ambulance service touches all our lives at some time or other, but also because the authors natural writing style is obviously borne out of having lived all the experiences, first hand and at a very senior level.

A unique opportunity to learn about an essential life saving service and the management techniques involved in operating at CEO level in a politically charged and often controversial public environment.

Lung Transplantation is still relatively new compared to other transplantation surgery. The first successful heart/lung transplant took place in 1981, with the first successful single lung transplant taking place in 1983. It was not until 1986 the first successful double lung transplant takes place. Even more recent is the living lobar transplant which the first successful one being in 1990. The survival rate continues to rise with the introduction of new surgery techniques, drug therapies and physical therapy.

Often those given the option to have a lung transplant, have no place to turn and learn about the success and accomplishments of those receiving a single lung, double lung, or heart/lung transplant. It can become overwhelming being in the process of lung transplant and not hearing how the majority of people do afterward. Well the majority are out living very full lives.

These lives include, school, play, marriage, adventure, sports, careers, travel, volunteering, retirement and enjoying life and breathing. Family life is enhanced and new exciting opportunities open many eyes. But where can you read about this new beginning, new life, new breath you are given? Well, until now, there was no place. So that has changed with this book.

Taking Flight is a collection of stories from around the world, from recipients of all ages, all lung illnesses and what these recipients are now doing in their lives. Taking Flight is an opportunity to see that organ donation does work and that lives return to normal after surgery. Taking Flight can inspire those who pre transplant to see what they may be able to accomplish one day. It will bring to light that this is a great option for someone with end stage lung illness and your dreams are possible. For someone who has had a lung transplant, it is an inspiration to see others doing many of things you are now accomplishing yourself. An affirmation of sorts.

The butterfly theme is a symbol to those who have had a lung transplant and experienced the life within them and around them opening up and taking off. Many of these stories tell of a life long lung condition that did not allow them to take off into life like so many others do. But now they can and they take every opportunity that is given to them to go out and experience life. It shows that the very young are able to run, play, go to school, and do the things they dreamed of. It allows young people to pursue their dreams of a career, or marriage and finally making that much desired pursuit of a goal, a reality. For those who are retired, it allows them to spend time with family, friends, travel and become active once again.

Taking Flight is a starting point for those who are, considering lung transplant, or have had a lung transplant. From here you will soar and surprise, grow and learn, experience and share, while you breathe and spread your wings and fly.

Click here to read about Karen Couture's LUNG TRANSPLANTATION HANDBOOK