Latest research findings can provide an evidence base for health care practice which ultimately improves outcomes for patients. With so much published research out there, how do you find, evaluate and use the most relevant studies to shape your own health care practice? This friendly book walks you through the key stages of locating, selecting and evaluating research findings in health care. Offering an engaging, practice-based approach to an often daunting task, the book:- Explores how to appraise and apply data drawn from a range of quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods studies- Demonstrates how research findings can influence decision-making and can improve your own practice, as well as that of your team- Uses stimulating practice scenarios and worked examples to provide a transferrable blueprint for evidence based practiceDrawing on the author's extensive research and teaching experience within the field of practice development, Using Research in Practice is an essential text for any health care student or practitioner seeking to evaluate and develop their own evidence base.

PART I: WHAT IS RESEARCH AND WHY SHOULD IT BE USED? Why Should we Use Research? What is Research? PART II: IS THE RESEARCH ANY GOOD? Finding Information Appraising Research Appraising Quantitative Research Appraising Qualitative Research Appraising Mixed Methods Research Using Summaries of Evidence PART III: PUTTING RESEARCH INTO PRACTICE Making Decisions Changing Your Practice Changing Team Practice Evaluating New Practice Conclusion