According to the American Nurses Association (2010) Scope and Standards of Nursing Practice, collaboration is defined as “a professional health care partnership based on mutual and respectful recognition and acceptance: unique characteristics of each partner. expertise, power and sphere of influence and responsibilities; community of objectives; the mutual protection of the legitimate interests of each party; and the advantages of such a relationship” (p. 64). Collaboration among healthcare providers is crucial to providing quality patient care. Integrating disciplinary teams improves communication, coordination and, most importantly, the safety and quality of patient care. It allows interaction between team members, allowing them to bring their individual skills and experiences to operate more effectively in pursuit of the goals of providing high-quality healthcare. In this article, I will differentiate between intra and interdisciplinary teams and the patient's place within them. teams. I will also describe the communication skills possessed by successful care teams. I will then explain the role of teams in nursing and patient empowerment. Finally, I will discuss the role of teams in nursing professional development. Difference Between Intra and Interdisciplinary Teams An intradisciplinary team is composed of professionals from a single discipline that includes members of different levels of education and expertise within that discipline. An example of intradisciplinary collaboration in health care would be collaboration among nurses in efforts to achieve the goals of optimal patient care within nursing practice. An interdisciplinary team is made up of professionals from various disciplines who are involved in achieving...... middle of paper ...... resources and opportunities; and respect for oneself and others.” (p.500). Collaborating on an equal footing with other healthcare professionals allows nurses to contribute at their optimal level. Access to information, support, resources, and opportunities through team member participation will increase nurses' sense of autonomy in providing high-quality patient care. An empowered patient is one who actively participates in their health care. They monitor all aspects of their health and collaborate with health team members when there are concerns regarding their body. The health care team may include doctors, nurses, pharmacists, assistants, and family members who can help provide information when making decisions. A team that “approaches patients as equal partners is key to patient empowerment.” (Burkhart and Nathaniel, 2008, p... 518)