The importance of good communication and interpersonal skills has been recognised in the new NMC Standards for pre-registration nursing education (2010). The new edition of this well-received book has been revised to cover the new Standards and is now aimed specifically at first year students. New case studies help students understand how to use skills in practice and the theory of communication has been made easier to understand through scenarios and theory summaries. Key topics covered include: underpinning concepts; building therapeutic relationships; using a variety of communication methods; compassion and dignity; communicating in different environments; and culture and diversity issues.