1
To the Student
As you begin planning for a career in healthcare, are you concerned about job
security after you complete an educational program? According to the United States
Department of Labor, in the last decade, growth in health-related occupations has
soared above almost all others. The future for healthcare occupations looks bright! With
the aging baby boomer generation and the expansion of medical technology, health
careers offer secure, well-paying employment.
One challenge employers face is fi nding entry-level employees who have the basic
skills needed to succeed in the healthcare world. Every healthcare worker must be
profi cient in the following areas: oral and written communications, math, reading,
study skills, and computing skills. Are you confi dent about your abilities in these areas,
or would you welcome some review? This textbook is designed to provide students
who desire a healthcare career, an opportunity to enhance these skills before embarking
on a career pathway.
Additionally, this textbook will introduce you to medical terminology; healthcare
ethics and law; safety and infection control in the healthcare environment; and body
structure, function, and disease. Information about obtaining and maintaining a
satisfying job in the healthcare fi eld is also provided. Special features are also included
to provide opportunities to review and apply what you have learned, while also
delivering a more detailed discussion of the topic at hand.
Essential Skills for Health Career Success will provide opportunities to critically think
through challenges you may face as a healthcare employee. This textbook will also
introduce you to a wide range of healthcare careers from which you can choose. We
believe that through your study you will fi nd that a career in healthcare can be exciting,
rewarding, and long-lasting.
Jacquelyn Rhine Marshall
Kay Lynette Stevens