The handbook provides a concise practical guide to anaesthetic practice, beginning with physiological effects, shock, and asphyxia, then outlining methods of anaesthesia, patient preparation and clinical observation. Subsequent chapters review inhalational agents (nitrous oxide, ether, chloroform, ethyl chloride), gas mixtures and intratracheal techniques, inhaler and apparatus design, sequences of agents, and accident prevention and management. It addresses postoperative sequelae, patient positioning and criteria for choosing agents, and concludes with chapters on local and spinal anaesthesia. Emphasis is placed on safe administration, physiological monitoring, and practical details of equipment and technique.