Writing a textbook for nurses is an incredible honor. As an RN for more than
25 years and a consultant for almost 10, I am excited by the opportunity to convey the expertise I have gained in communication and collaboration to nursing students all over the United States and possibly beyond. It is an amazing honor. But that is not what has motivated me to write this book.
A combination of education, nursing practice, and personal experience has led me to discover extremely important and easily overlooked connections between our ability to com- municate effectively and favorable outcomes involving patient safety, the cultures in whic we work, and our own health. I want all healthcare professionals and consumers to see these connections so that we can work together for positive change.