I got this book to help understand blood gases better in detail so I could keep up and have discussions with physicians on interpreting this stuff. This book goes beyond what I learned in school as a Respiratory Therapist. Book was in great shape despite buying it used with some highlighted and underlined parts from the previous owner. It's also leather so it looks great and feels good in my hands. Shapiro is the man when it comes to any respiratory book out there. At times this book is a struggle to read just because of the physician lingo, so I found myself having to look up words online or in a dictionary. But I saw this as a way of just making myself a better healthcare worker. Also, when I'm not reading this book, it sits on my ottoman on top of a tray. So when people come over and look at it, they think I'm Doc or something. lol.and not as dry as one might think, given the subject matter. i have found the information in this book invaluable in my practice as a respiratory therapist. a must read for respiratory therapists and healthcare professionals working with blood gases and adjunct oxygenation/ventilation devices.db in SLCGreat book for all levels of intensivists specially the beginners. Got it in nearly mint conditionTimely delivery, good quality