The curriculum that evolved into the ideas for this series was inspired by Philbert Yau and Chuck Rosipal, two talented and forthright students, who have since graduated from medical school. It has been a tremendous joy to work with my excellent coauthors, especially Dr. Manny Suarez, who exemplifies the qualities of the ideal physician—caring, empathetic, and avid teacher—and who is intellectually a giant. It was on the island of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, while reviewing the curriculum of the fledgling Trinity School of Medicine, that Manny and I conceived the idea of this book, a critical care book for students. I also enjoy collaborating with Dr. Terry Liu, my longtime friend and colleague whose expertise and commitment to medical education is legendary. This second edition has three new cases and includes updates on nearly every case. I appreciate McGraw-Hill's believing in the concept of teaching through clinical cases, and I would like to especially acknowledge Cindy Yoo for her editing expertise and Catherine Saggese and Raghavi Khullar, Cenveo Publisher Services for the excellent production. It has been amazing to work together with my daughter Allison, who is an extremely talented registered nurse at the Baylor Scott and White Hillcrest Medical Center in Waco, Texas. She is an astute manuscript reviewer and diligently read and helped me to edit each case. Already in her early career, she has a good clinical acumen. I appreciate the excellent support from the Office of Educational Programs at McGovern Medical School, especially Dr. Sean Blackwell, Chair of the Department of Ob/Gyn, and Dr. Patricia Butler, the Vice Dean for Educational Programs. Most of all, I appreciate my ever-loving wife Terri, and our four wonderful children: Andy and his wife Anna, Michael, Allison, and Christina for their patience and understanding.