This new encyclopedia from Gale covers a wide range of subjects related to nursing and the allied health professions. The 850 signed alphabetical entries deal with diseases and disorders (Alcoholism, Movement disorders ); tests and procedures (Barium enema, Lithotripsy ); equipment and tools (Heart-lung machines, Stethoscope); human biology and body systems (Cardiovascular system, Cell division); nursing and allied health professions (Biomedical engineering, Nurse midwifery ); and current health issues (Americans with Disabilities Act, Managed care plans ).

The entries are one to six pages long. They include definitions and descriptions along with basic material related to the subject (diagnosis and treatment of diseases, maintenance of equipment, and required education for careers). Definitions of key terms appear in shaded boxes, and black-and-white illustrations augment the text. Resource lists appear at the ends of the articles. An appendix lists allied health and nursing organizations.