Nurses play many vital roles in the care of their patients, including that of advocate – someone who acts or intercedes on behalf of another. Typically the healthcare professional with the most interpersonal contact with the patient, the nurse may be in the best position to act as the liaison between patient and family and other team members and departments. To perform this function adequately, the nurse must be knowledgeable about and involved in all aspects of the patient’s care and have a positive working relationship with other team members.