Charles Hendry

The integumentary system: anatomy, physiology and function of skin

This article, which forms part of the life sciences series, examines the anatomy and physiology of skin, also termed the integumentary system. Skin is composed of two main layers, the epidermis and dermis. The structure of the epidermis and dermis are described and their functions are discussed. Accessory structures, such as nails and hair are also considered. Although many diseases of the skin exist, two common conditions – psoriasis and decubitus ulcers – are described in this article.

Development, growth and repair from conception to old age

As part of the life sciences series, this article discusses the types of development, growth and repair that occur throughout the human body from conception to old age. Particular attention is paid to embryo development in the uterus, changes that occur to women during pregnancy and developmental changes in early childhood. Puberty is examined as well as changes to functional ability and reserve capacity that take place in older age.

Cells and cell biochemistry

This article, which forms part of the life sciences series, aims to promote understanding of the basic structure and function of cells. It assists healthcare professionals to appreciate the complex anatomy and physiology underpinning the functioning of the human body. Several introductory chemical concepts and terms are outlined. The basic building blocks of all matter, atoms, are examined and the way in which they may interact to form new compounds within the body is discussed. The basic structures and components that make up a typical cell are considered.

Phenomenological approaches: challenges and choices

Phenomenology is a recognised approach for investigating experiences in health research. Difficulties regarding the approach, however, have been documented with even the definitions and terminology sometimes being unclear. In addition to this, there have been claims that many nurse researchers have failed to report how the gap between philosophically related theory and research practice is managed. While legitimacy can be increased by claims regarding theoretical location, there have also been suggestions that engaging too intensely in methodological awareness can hinder the practice and progress of a research project. A balance is therefore required.

This article concentrates on the dilemmas and challenges facing a researcher looking for an appropriate method and approach for a study investigating the experiences of stroke survivors. The challenges of using phenomenology as a research method and the approach of interpretative phenomenological analysis are further considered.

Qualitative Research Practice

This book is jam-packed with a wide range of material related to qualitative research. The editors and contributors are drawn from a wide international background, and thus, say the editors, the book represents ‘the global nature of the qualitative research enterprise’. The aim in producing it was not simply to produce another handbook of qualitative research but rather to write a book about research practice. To this end, the book draws upon actual research studies to embed the text in the real world of qualitative research. It is particularly aimed at the student reader.

Interactive qualitative analysis: a systems method for qualitative research

Both authors work at the University of Texas at Austin, and neither has a background in healthcare research. The stated aim of their text is to: ‘help students unscramble the mysteries of qualitative data collection, coding and analysis…’ And they propose using a ‘systematic, qualitative technique: interactive qualitative analysis (IQA)’. There is a hint here that perhaps other approaches to qualitative analysis are not systematic, and that this is not a good thing.

Qualitative Research: Theory, Method and Practice

This book represents an extensive revision and updating of the 1997 first edition. It includes five new chapters commissioned for this volume. It is intended to be a comprehensive but accessible guide to ‘a variety of methodological approaches to qualitative research’.

Nursing research in context: appreciation, application and professional development

Let’s begin with what this book is not. This is, strictly speaking, not a ‘how to do research’ type book. It will not introduce the new researcher to the various research paradigms, nor will it explore the research process. This book will not take the reader through the different ‘ologies’ and ‘ographies’ to be found in research in any depth; neither will it examine, in detail, an assortment of different research methods that might be employed by a would be researcher.