The expanded practices and new roles which nurses are currently undertaking are often in areas in which a sound knowledge of the life sciences is essential if the physiological processes underlying a patient's condition are to be understood. This book examines a number of key advanced nursing skills, in each case describing the research evidence upon which best practice is based, as well as the practical aspects of the individual techniques involved. The required knowledge from the life sciences is also provided in a clear, easily readable style, this information always being placed in its relevant clinical context. Advanced Nursing Skills: Principles and Practice is essential reading for all nurses wishing to expand their skills base. Although primarily aimed at post-registered nurses, nurses undergoing pre-registration nurse training will also find this book helpful as they themselves will be involved to a limited extent in the practices described.