How do nurses and doctors get along? Is communication a problem? There are many reports of dysfunctional relationships between physicians and nursing staff; a PubMed search on the subject of brings up over 500 hits. Poor communication strains relationships and are erosive to patient safety efforts; when nurses and doctors collaborate better, the risk of poor outcomes decrease. In a survey performed by the American College of Physician Executives, 95% of physician responded that they encounter disruptive behavior by physicians on a regular basis. Physicians and nurses are capable of both excellent and suboptimal communication; in the Advisory Board's Daily Briefing column, an argument is made that both sides could improve their communication techniques. Both doctors and nurses can agree there is plenty to talk about!