The handbook of midwifery research

Abstract

Part 1 - starts with a chapter on Introduction to Midwifery Research which sets the scene and covers an understanding of the general principles of research, the importance of the research question, the approaches that can be undertaken, the differences between these and the importance of applying evidence to midwifery practice. Chapter 2 - Finding the Evidence, explains in detail how to undertake a literature review, the sources of evidence available, how to use a search strategy and gives useful examples. In addition, midwifery related structured and systematic reviews are described and discussed in an attempt to promote a better understanding of how to undertake these aspects of research. Chapter 3 — Making Sense of the Evidence, covers the critiquing aspects of research evidence, gives an insight into how evidence is graded and clearly differentiates the differences between qualitative and quantitative approaches. Part 2 —focuses on how to undertake research and includes four chapters. Data collection techniques cover both qualitative and quantitative methods and are the focus of chapter 4. This chapter gives specific details on how to undertake a research interview and how to design a questionnaire as these will be the most likely data collection tools a midwife or student will make use of. Chapter 5 - ethics and research governance introduces the role of ethics when undertaking research and discusses the importance of research governance. Ethical issues relating to midwifery research are considered and specific details on how to obtain ethical approval is addressed to help midwives and students achieve this successfully. Data analysis is the focus of chapter 6. An introduction to data analysis which is followed by specific sections of both qualitative and quantitative analysis methods is covered and a basic understanding of statistics is also included to help midwives and students link the type of data collected with the appropriate statistical test required to analyse a specific type of data (fit for purpose). Finally, dissemination and the research dissertation/thesis are the focus of chapter 7. Writing skills and how to structure your dissertation/thesis is described and discussed. Guidelines and advice on how to get your work published and presenting a conference paper are given. A specific section on useful resources and becoming a researcher brings the book to a close.