Foundations of Hospital Medicine: Evidence-Based Protocols for Inpatient Diagnosis, Management, and Transitions Care

Hospitalized patients often present with multiple medical conditions, acute illness, chronic diseases, and unexpected complications that require timely assessment and coordinated care. Clinicians are expected to make sound diagnostic decisions, manage medical emergencies, communicate effectively across multidisciplinary teams, and ensure safe transitions of care-all while delivering high-quality, patient-centered treatment. As hospitals continue to care for increasingly complex patients, there is a growing need for practical resources that help healthcare professionals develop strong clinical reasoning, prioritize patient safety, and navigate the realities of inpatient medicine. Foundations of Hospital Medicine is written for that reality. This book provides a clear, clinically focused foundation for medical students, residents, physician associates, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and practicing clinicians who want a dependable guide to the principles and everyday practice of hospital medicine. Rather than presenting inpatient care as a collection of isolated diseases, this book helps readers understand how the different elements of hospital medicine come together-from patient admission and diagnosis to treatment planning, multidisciplinary collaboration, discharge preparation, and continuity of care. Inside, readers will find practical guidance on: - The core principles and scope of hospital medicine- Clinical assessment and management of hospitalized patients- Diagnostic reasoning and evidence-informed decision-making- Management of common inpatient medical conditions- Patient safety, quality improvement, and risk reduction- Communication within multidisciplinary healthcare teams- Care transitions, discharge planning, and follow-up coordination- Everyday hospital-based clinical situations that require practical judgment Hospital medicine is not only about treating acute illness. It is about coordinating care, responding to changing clinical conditions, preventing complications, and ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and compassionate care throughout their hospital stay. Whether you are preparing for clinical rotations, beginning residency, working in inpatient practice, or strengthening your understanding of hospital-based medicine, Foundations of Hospital Medicine offers an organized and practical approach to modern inpatient care. A practical reference for learners and healthcare professionals who want to think critically, make confident clinical decisions, and deliver high-quality care in today's hospital environment.