This text is designed as a complete introduction to nursing research. It uses a running example and a research project to give the essential details of research. It is essentially a self-instruction guide to research methods. Practical exercises and activities are suggested in each chapetr to promote the relevant skills for a research project. The second edition takes account of current changes with chapters on the role of nursing research in the new NHS, audit and its relationship to research and the introduction of a national strategy for funding and developing research which should contribute to health care services.