In an effort to break down language barriers for Spanish-speaking BMETS, Carlos R. Villafane, CBET, launched his first publication called "Biomedica: Desde la Perspectiva del Estudiante" (Biomed: From the Student's Perspective). The 164-page book offers guidance on repairing, calibrating and maintaining medical equipment.

A lack of materials in Spanish prompted Villafane to write the book. "I was a biomed in Puerto Rico in 1996 and 1997," he says. "At that time all the books were in English."

He hopes the book will help young biomeds in the practice of the profession. He says students are prepared well theoretically, but the biomed field requires practical knowledge and experience. Villafane hopes his book helps students see what they will encounter in the specialized field, and how to progress in the industry.

The book is filled with illustrations of modern equipment. "I have many photographs of infusion pumps for example," Villafane says. "The student will recognize it very easily."

The book can be purchased for $29.95 from Villafane's website at www.biomedtechnicians.com, and ordered through online bookstores such as Barnes and Noble (bn.com) using the following data:

* ISBN: 0615241581
* ISBN-13: 9780615241586