AORN JOURNAL FEBRUARY 1990, VOL. 51, NO 2

as body components that are transported by the blood, such as red cells, white cells, platelets, blood types, enzymes, and hormones.

Information on specific tests follows the background information. Although not every known test is included (the only shortcoming of the book), the discussion will aid the nune and patient with the most frequently tested laboratory specimens.

The authors present information on what is being measured and special patient instructions so the test can be performed without problems. This includes pretest directions, cautions, and potential hazards.

Normal values are listed along with graphs that illustrate the point more clearly. The author lists and explains contraindications, such as a biopsy on a patient with a bleeding disorder. Factors that may influence test results are listed in each section.

This well-written book contains a wealth of information. Although it would be impossible to memorize all the facts in this book, cross-references make the facts easy to retrieve. The authors do a fine job explaining each area that is considered.

The book can be ordered from F A Davis, Co, 1915 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19103.

DIANNA PACK, RN, MA, CNOR, CRNA NURSE ANESTHETIST

ST FRANCIS HOSPITAL NEW CASTLE, PA

A Handbook for the Laryngeetomee third ed. By Robert L. Keith 1989, 87pp $6 paperback

Laryngectomy patients are the primary audience for this book. In the introduction, the author acquaints the patient with the anatomy involved and the different, possibilities to enable the laryngectomy patient to speak. Terminology is presented clearly in layman’s terms and includes a question-and-answer section covering pertinent material.

The author presents methods for learning esophageal voice and lists practice words along with methods to encourage each phase of practice.

Illustrations of the voice prostheses, mechanical and electrical larynxes, and amplifiers are additional aides for the patient.

In addition, laryngectomy patients will find addresses for purchasing equipment, information on therapy, and where to seek financial help. There also are excellent chapters on personal care and artificial respiration.

This book contains necessary information for the laryngectomy patient that encompasses the perioperative period and extends to the patient’s future ability to speak, with or without devices.

The book is available from Interstate Printers and Publishers, Inc, 19 N Jackson St, Danville,

PEARL M. TORRESYAP, RN, CNOR

BOSTON VA MEDICAL CENTER

IL 61834-0050.

THORACIC CHARGE NURSE

Hospitals Must Heed Recall, Warning Notices A recent suit in New York emphasizes the importance of hospitals taking action when they receive warnings or recall notices from manufac- turers. In the case, a five-year-old boy was killed when crushed by a bed on which a control had not been deactivated to prevent the bed from automatically descending to its lowest position.

The manufacturer of the bed sent warnings in 1983 and 1987, and hospital administrators admit that they were aware of the 1987 warning. In addition, the control devices on 55 of 600 beds in the hospital had been deactivated. The remaining controls were deactivated after the boy’s death. The boy’s family sued the hospital.

According to the November 1989 issue of Hospital Risk Management, hospital risk manag- ers should institute policies and procedures for ensuring appropriate action when hospitals receive warnings and recall notices. It also is important to inform the medical staff of the poli- cies. Spot checking also is important to make sure warnings are heeded.

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