Working with Other Disciplines

Delivery of health care is a collaborative effort, and each person has a valuable contribution to make. Although many important aspects of care are not specific to any particular discipline-for example, those that involve the basic principles of positive human interaction-other aspects are determined by the specific expertise and requirements of various disciplinary or occupational groups. Because nurse managers are responsible for ensuring that efficient and effective nursing services are delivered, they must know how each person's role fits into the overall plan of care and ensure that it is understood and valued by others, including the patient. An understanding of different disciplinary perspectives enables good organisational planning and can assist in dealing with the conflicts that inevitably emerge. This chapter provides a framework for appreciating fundamental differences among disciplines, explains why tensions and conflict occur and outlines strategies for promoting good inter-professional relations.