Organizational restructuring and expanded settings of health care delivery provide opportunities for the orthopaedic staff nurse to review basic communication tools that are useful with clients and families, managers, and other health care providers. It is critical for the staff nurse to build a repertoire of skills that support leadership and encourage enlightened followers. This two-part article addresses assertiveness, conflict management, and negotiation skills that are basic to providing professional care with confidence and competence in a changing health care environment.