Making sense of research : an introduction for health and social care practitioners.

Scientific knowledge that supports clinical practice is growing exponentially. Today's health care and social service professionals need to be research-literate so that their practice can be based on the best current evidence. This third edition, by Hek and Moule (both, Univ. of the West of England, UK), has been updated to help clinicians understand the critical connection between research findings and practice and to assist them in evaluating the available scientific evidence. As in earlier editions, the text is very learner-friendly. Objectives and key terms are identified at the beginning of each chapter, and a concise summary of main points appears at the end of each chapter. Throughout the book the authors give examples that illustrate key points in the research process; clinicians will find these relevant to their practice. Three new appendixes offer guidelines for the appraisal of individual studies and methods for searching the vast body of scientific literature--two important competencies needed by every health professional. The straightforward, concise presentation of material makes the volume's content accessible to both advanced undergraduates and practitioners who want to deliver the best care possible in a fast-changing world. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. Upper-level undergraduates and professionals/practitioners. A. M. Kolanowski Pennsylvania State University, University Park Campus