Communication and power relationships

The following platforms and proficiencies will be covered in this chapter:
• Platform 6: Improving safety and quality of care
6.2 Understand the relationship between safe staffing levels, appropriate skills mix, safety, and quality of care, recognising risks to public protection and quality of care, escalating concerns appropriately.
• Platform 7: Coordinating care
7.1 Understand and apply the principles of partnership, collaboration, and interagency working across all relevant sectors.
7.13 Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of exercising political awareness throughout their career, to maximise the influence and effect of registered nursing on quality of care, patient safety and cost effectiveness.

Chapter aims
After reading this chapter, you will be able to:
• demonstrate awareness of how health policy influences nursing and consider your own role in 'speaking up';
• understand how assigned and perceived power can affect communication in collaborative working:
• identify situations where escalation is needed in practice, including whistleblowing, and communication strategies you might use.