Nursing Knowledge and Practice: Foundations for Decision Making

This comprehensive core textbook is designed to be the ideal basis for foundation nursing studies. Unlike other books it provides a unique and innovative decision-making approach by integrating the knowledge base from subject areas within the nursing curriculum through a focus on the needs of service users. It emphasises that such needs provide the focal point for student learning across all fields of nursing practice The clear format of each chapter identifies the relevant biological, psychosocial, care delivery, professional and ethical knowledge that is needed to inform decision making and to gain the practice knowledge needed for the statutory competencies for registration as a nurse. The reflective knowledge sections explore the complexity and diversity of nursing practice. Each chapter is designed to encourage reflection on practice and critical thinking.Clear sections identify the relevant knowledge base to assist students in applying their knowledge in practice Case studies reflect the diverse range of client needs and care settings of the four nursing branches enabling students to apply theory to practiceReflective exercises and decision-making activities encourage students to make links to nursing practice, and reflect on their experience Current research is highlighted throughout demonstrating the evidence-base for practice decisionsAnnotated further reading provides a resource for further studyA chapter on communication Clinical governance, risk assessment and risk managementFully updated evidence-baseSuggestions for portfolio evidenceAnnotated Web site addresses