This unique book presents an authoritative guide to the medical and surgical management of complex neurosurgical problems encountered in the critical care setting. It provides straightforward summaries of each stage of patient care, guiding the reader through initial assessment, including ordering the appropriate lab work, triage procedures, such as how to manage patients with multi-system injuries, and sedation and pain management. The book also covers important nursing and medical-legal issues related to neurosurgical intensive care. Features: -Guidance on how to manage systemic complications, diseases, and infections-Practical review of concepts in neuropharmacology and nutrition, and procedures for fluid management and ventilator management-Select case examples throughout the book that supplement discussion of the decision-making process-Recommendations for communicating with and caring for the families of neurosurgical intensive care unit patients This comprehensive book provides a wealth of information that is essential for neurosurgeons, intensive care unit nurses, house staff, nurse practitioners, physicians' assistants, residents at all levels, and medical students.