<P>Research can seem difficult to get to grips with. However, at the heart of this new edition is the view that research is essentially a simple activity, the principles of which can be readily understood by students new to the subject. </P><P>Each chapter guides the reader to uncover the ¿mysteries¿ of research, exposing each aspect in turn, while demonstrating how research in healthcare is a practical activity, orientated directly to patient care. Fully updated to refer to the latest sources and studies, the third edition includes:</P><P> a new chapter on systematic literature reviews;</P><P> a new chapter on research ethics;</P><P> a completely revised chapter on evidence-based practice which now focuses more tightly on the implementation of research and other forms of evidence.</P><P>This book is designed for all students of nursing and allied health professions at any level but who find themselves studying research for the first time. Research is illustrated through