Book Reviews
Nursing Research: Methods, critical appraisal and utilisation. 1st Australasian Edition
Christine Beanland, Zevia Schneider, Geri LoBiondo-Wood, Judith Haber
1999 598 pages Mosby Publishers Australia Pty Ltd
This book addresses a comprehensive range of research issues relevant from the perspective of both the consumer and provider of research. The primary audience for the text is both undergraduate and graduate students and nurses in clinical practice and the book are well suited to its intended readership. This 1st Australasian edition has been modified and revised from the 4th American edition making this book relevant for an Australasian nursing audience. Twelve contributors, all well qualified nurses, contributed to the American editions and two well qualified Australasian nurses contributed to the Australasian edition. All contributors were drawn from the nursing education and / or research fields.
This book has 19 chapters divided into 2 major parts addressing the 'Research Process' and 'Critique and Application'. Four appendices give useful descriptive examples of research studies conducted in Australasian. These appendices complement research methodologies discussed in the chapters. It is pleasing to see space is dedicated to information on the development of critical thinking and critical reading skills as well as the process of critical analysis. Reasonable attention is also given to data analysis.
The contents of each chapter are listed in detail. The index is informative and the glossary extensive and descriptive. Information presented in the text is further illuminated by the use of tables, boxes and figures.
The level of content in the book makes it suitable for undergraduate students as well as masters and doctoral students, or qualified staff wishing to update themselves. The reader is able to choose the level of information and the type of information that is pertinent to themselves and their research. The authors recognize the relevance of both quantitative and qualitative research to nursing and afford equal space to both.
The book is very well presented and readable. There is consistency in presentation style and fluency in the presentation of information. Where relevant, particular information in each chapter is summarized into key points and text is accompanied by 'helpful hints'. To this end the content is relevant and current.
In summary, this book compares very favourably with other books on nursing research methods. It is an excellent book, which I have no hesitation in recommending to students and qualified staff in nursing and other health professions who are considering health care research. All health care libraries should buy a copy and all health care students should have access to a copy for general and reference use. Students of research will benefit from owning a copy.
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