[line just line]

I ordered a Mosby's Diagnostic & Lab Test Reference book. I got the 7th Edition from 2005. It appears there are newer versions. Should I get the newest or does it really matter?

[pshs_2000]

the only things that might be different in the newer editions are the reference values. these vary anyway depending on your facility. if you're just using it for class and to refer to for preassessing, then keep what you have. the reason for doing certain lab tests and the results are pretty consistent from edition to edition.

[WDWpixieRN]

I'd pretty much agree with pshs....our instructor asked us a lab value the other day and we all spouted what was in our manual. She kind of looked funny, then said, "Oh, well at my clinical facility it's XX.XX, so I guess we're close". But we were in the ballpark; the important thing will be understanding what the values mean to your pt and I bet that doesn't change all that much. I'd just use that....you're going to spend a fortune on other books as it is.

[WDWpixieRN]

Duplicate post. Silly PC.

[kukukajoo]

If there was an error in shipping and you actually ordered a newer copy I would definately return it to get what you paid for.

I almost always order a previous version when ordering books for the simple fact that I can sometimes get a 200.00 book for 2.00!! Money saved for a nursing student means one less loan to take out!!

The books don't change much and you can go the publishers website and see exactly what was changed/added between editions, and usually it adds up to only a few things that don't make constant updating important.

I am using a copy of Alexanders Care of the Pt in Surgery from 1983! I know, a LOT has changed since then, but I oly use as a reference and it has so much good information in it I could not say no the 75 cent price tag!