Phlebotomists receive specialized training. Phlebotomists are knowledgeable of human anatomy and physiology, blood collection techniques, and safety procedures and protocols. A good textbook is a great asset to any student. Phlebotomy students should consider reading Phlebotomy Essentials (4th edition) by Ruth E McCall and Cathee M Tankersley. Phlebotomy Essentials is intended for phlebotomy students and practicing phlebotomists. However, many topics are covered (including duties often performed by laboratory assistants and medical assistants) and the book’s appeal extends to a wide range of healthcare practitioners.
Phlebotomy Essentials is a clear and concise reference for phlebotomy procedures and techniques. Printed in full-color, Phlebotomy Essentials provides a comprehensive background in phlebotomy theory and principles in addition to accurate and practical information and instruction.
Phlebotomy Essentials reflects the current Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines, the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) competencies, and federal regulations. The fourth edition of Phlebotomy Essentials, released in March 2007, is thoroughly updated and enhanced. Updated topics include information regarding safety issues and equipment, laboratory information systems, legal issues, and diagnostic tests. Dangerous practices and problem areas are also identified in the fourth edition. Phlebotomy Essentials is accompanied by a CD-ROM which provides clinical procedure videos, animations, electronic flashcards, and a glossary with audio pronunciations.
Additionally, McCall and Tankersley have released a companion workbook, Phlebotomy Essentials, Workbook (4th ed.). This workbook provides chapter-by-chapter exercises to reinforce chapter materials. Workbook exercises include matching key terms, chapter review questions, crossword puzzles, skill and knowledge drills, requisition activities, competency checklists, case studies, concept mapping, procedure evaluation forms, and venipuncture practice logs.
Students preparing for national phlebotomy exams may also choose to utilize McCall and Tankersley’s exam review book, Phlebotomy Exam Review. This exam review guide prepares students for all 10 national certification exams in phlebotomy, including the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) and the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA). Phlebotomy Exam Review follows the accreditation guidelines for both the NAACLS and the CLSI. The book is written in a comprehensive outline format and includes content review in over 800 multiple-choice questions with answers and rationale. Phlebotomy Exam Review includes sample exams to encourage a comfort level in the test-taking environment. This text is often required of phlebotomy students even when a separate exam review course is not taught.