This very basic textbook aims to provide nursing students with the essential bioscience they will need to complete their Common Foundation Programme. The book will explore the relevant basic scientific principles, apply these principles to clinical situations and then ask review questions.

Preface; Introduction; Chapter One: Atoms; Chapter Two: Water and electrolyte balance; Chapter Three: Acids and bases; Chapter Four: Biomolecules; Chapter Five: Cells; Chapter Six: Genetics; Chapter Seven: Microorganisms; Chapter Eight: Immunology; Chapter Nine: Fluids, liquids and gases; Chapter Ten: Nutrition and metabolism; Chapter Eleven: Energy - Electromagnetic radiation; Chapter Twelve: Temperature and Heat; Chapter Thirteen: Forces and mechanics; Chapter Fourteen: Electricity; Periodic table of the elements; Glossary; Answers; Index

A basic understanding of science and technology is vital to students in modern nursing education. Recognising that many students have little or no scientific background when they commence their studies, the authors of this book have produced a text written in plain language which is easy to use and non-threatening. This introductory textbook provides nursing students with the essential bioscience they need to complete their nursing studies. The book explains the scientific concepts that are related to all nursing practices and procedures from the simplest to the most advanced. The ability to recognise why things are done the way they are will strengthen confidence in contributing to patient care. Activities and exercises are included in each chapter to encourage enquiry and test understanding, with simple and clear diagrams supporting explanations in the text. At the end of the chapter there are further questions to try, with answers provided. A glossary of terms is provided for quick reference and suggestions for further reading have been included at the end of each chapter For anyone who has not studied science before this is an excellent introduction to the key principles of chemistry, physics and biology and how they apply to nursing.