This introductory text to evidence-based practice provides nurses and other health professionals with a clear idea of why they should use research information as a basis for high-quality patient care and how they should use that information in the clinical setting. In a logical progression which helps the student build knowledge systematically the text looks at: *the rationale for evidence-based care *what research is and approaches to it *the benefits of research to clinical practice *critical appraisal skills *reflective practice and decision-making *how to put research into practice *the importance of research dissemination A summary of essential points to remember is included at the end of each chapter and the text is firmly grounded in the clinical context. This book provides an indispensible reference guide suitable for use at all levels of training and practice.