"I like the way the author spends time on the background to and planning of qualitative research, rather than leaping straight into methods, which is what students tend to do! Descriptions and explanations of theoretical and practical aspects of qualitative work are combined well at a level that will engage students and professionals alike. The chapters on methods of qualitative data collection in particular are comprehensive awith many helpful practical tips." Catherine Perry, University of Chester, UK "I strongly recommend this book to all those lookng to undertake ethical and rigorous qualitative research in the field of health and health care." Jon Adams, University of Newcastle, Australia and University of Leeds, UK A practical overview for health students and health professionals embarking on an applied research project using a qualitative approach. Successful Qualitative Health Research offers a thorough introduction to the field, written in a clear and concise fashion. Emphasising the rigorous approach required in health research, it provides a step-by-step guide to designing a research project using qualitative methods, and to collecting, analysing and presenting different types of data. Hansen provides essential insights into the ideas and arguments underpinning different qualitative methods, and highlights the links between theory and practice. She also explains the importance of choosing the most appropriate form of data analysis. Each chapter features real life examples from experienced researchers from a wide range of health fields. These examples show how researchers have overcome common problems and offer inspiration and guidance. Applied qualitative research is increasingly being used to explore a range of issues in health, both on its own and as an adjunct to quantitative research. This book offers a clear, no-nonsense approach that will be invaluable to students and professionals in nursing, medicine, allied health and public health.

Author Biography

Emily Hansen is a Research Fellow in the Discipline of General Practice at the University of Tasmania and teaches qualitative research methods to applied health researchers. She holds a PhD in sociology and was awarded a Dean's Commendation for Outstanding Doctoral Theses.