This document discusses effective communication and the nurse-patient relationship. It defines communication and outlines its importance in nursing. The levels of communication are described, including intrapersonal, interpersonal, transpersonal, small group, and public. Key elements of the communication process like the sender, receiver, message, channel, and feedback are explained. Barriers to communication and methods to improve it through attention, rapport building, and empathy skills are also summarized. Finally, the document outlines the phases of developing a helping relationship between nurses and patients.