According to the American Nurses Association's Scope and Standards of Nursing Practice (2010), collaboration is defined as "a professional healthcare partnership founded on mutual recognition and acceptance and respectful of: the unique characteristics of each partner" competence, power, sphere of influence and responsibility; commonality of objectives; the mutual protection of the legitimate interest of each party; and the advantages of this relationship” (p. 64). Collaboration between healthcare providers is critical to providing quality care to patients. Integrating disciplinary teams improves communication, coordination and, most importantly, the safety and quality of patient care. Provides interaction between team members allowing them to bring their individual skills and experiences to function more effectively in pursuing goals to provide high quality healthcare. In this article I will distinguish between intradisciplinary and interdisciplinary teams and where the patient fits within these teams. I will also describe the communication skills that successful healthcare teams possess. I will then explain the role of teams in nursing care and patient empowerment. Finally, I will discuss the role of teams in nursing professional development. Difference Between Intradisciplinary and Interdisciplinary Teams An intradisciplinary team is composed of professionals from a single discipline that includes team members from various levels of education and expertise within that discipline. An example of intradisciplinarity in healthcare would be nurse-nurse collaboration in efforts to achieve optimal patient care goals within nursing practice. An interdisciplinary team is made up of professionals from various disciplines involved in achieving...... middle of paper...... resources and opportunities; and respect for oneself and others." (p.500). Collaborating as equals with other healthcare professionals allows nurses to contribute at their optimal levels. Having access to information, support, resources and opportunities through the participation of team members will increase the nurse's sense of empowerment in providing high-quality patient care. An empowered patient is one who actively participates in their own healthcare. They are in control of every aspect of their health and collaborate with members of the healthcare team when there are problems regarding their body. The healthcare team may include doctors, nurses, pharmacists, caregivers, and family members who can help inform the decision-making process. A team that “approaches patients as equal partners is the key to patient empowerment.” (Burkhart and Nathaniel, 2008, p. 518)
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