Which statement best reflects the QSEN teamwork and collaboration competency?

• A. A nurse should be able to work effectively within nursing and interprofessional teams by promoting open communication and shared decision-making to provide client care.
• B. A nurse should work independently and not rely on team input.
• C. Open communication should be discouraged in team settings.
• D. Interprofessional collaboration improves patient outcomes and should be encouraged.

Answer: (D)

Teamwork and collaboration in QSEN means functioning effectively on interprofessional teams with clear communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making to coordinate patient care. The best choice reflects this by stating that interprofessional collaboration improves patient outcomes and should be encouraged. This ties the practice of working with other professionals directly to better results for patients and sets an expectation that collaboration should be fostered across disciplines. While open communication and shared decision‑making are important aspects of teamwork, the emphasis on outcomes and the encouragement of collaboration captures the overall goal more completely. Statements that promote independence or discourage communication contrast with the collaborative approach QSEN aims to promote.