Phlebotomists are responsible for much more than just drawing blood (although that, in itself, requires a special skill-set). They must also record patient histories, prepare lab samples, disinfect and treat puncture sites, and work closely with nurses, doctors, and laboratory technicians to ensure fluid samples are properly handled. Because a phlebotomy technician’s job functions are so all-encompassing, it is necessary that phlebotomists have a wide range of information at their disposal. Here are five awesome books for phlebotomy technicians:
The Complete Textbook of Phlebotomy by Lynne B. Hoeltke. This text of over four-hundred pages is the phlebotomist’s dream reference book. In it, you will find every single procedure a phlebotomy technician must perform, fully illustrated with photos and clear, explanatory text. It is sure to be a stand-by throughout your career as a phlebotomy technician, now and for years to come.
Phlebotomist Test Preparation by Cynthia M. Reed. Not only will this book help you pass your certification examination, but it actually purports to help you increase your score. Even if you have already successfully completed your certification test, Phlebotomist Test Preparation is an ideal manual for brushing up on your knowledge and for completing any continuing education requirements.
Phlebotomy Essentials by Ruth E. McCall and Cathee M. Tankerslee. In this book, you will have a comprehensive information source for everything related to phlebotomy, including theory, techniques, principles, safety, equipment, puncture guidelines, laboratory procedures, diagnostic testing procedures and protocols, computerized information systems, legal issues and more. The third edition of Phlebotomy Essentials was developed to be in line with the guidelines of the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences.
Phlebotomy: A Client Based Approach by Bonnie K. Davis. An essential function of phlebotomy technicians is to work with patients to take their histories and comfort them through the sometimes strenuous venipuncture process. The scope of this text is to introduce phlebotomists to the concept of being customer service agents.
Phlebotomy Handbook: Blood Specimen Collection from Basic to Advanced by Diana Garza and Kathleen Becan-McBride. This eighth edition text is ideal for both new and experienced phlebotomy technicians, as it is jam-packed full of the specifics necessary to being not only a phlebotomist, but a great phlebotomist. Learn about the latest and greatest technologies and procedures, as well as the newest venipuncture protocol through the Phlebotomy Handbook.
You worked hard to become a phlebotomy technician. Now you can make the most of your career using this comprehensive collection of phlebotomy texts.
About the Author: Willis Carranco, NAC, NHA, CMA is a certified phlebotomist who sits on the board at 2 phlebotomy schools to help choose educational materials and ensure quality control for the certification process. Please visit http://www.associationphlebotomytraining.com/ for more information about phlebotomy and for more book recommendations.
