Several authors have identified collaboration between nurses and doctors as problematic. Benner (1984) stressed that teamwork and collaboration between the disciplines was crucial for both patient care and team morale. The purpose of this article is to evaluate critically and discuss the research studies which have been conducted into the dynamics of the nurse/doctor relationship. A number of characteristics are significant in influencing the collaborative process. These include excellent communication skills, respecting the value of colleagues' roles, the ability to share points of view and trust.