ADR techniques offer a great deal of benefit for conflicts in health care. Litigation should be used when it is appropriate, but the techniques of facilitation, negotiation, mediation and arbitration should be considered when there is a need to maintain ongoing relationships, reduce cost and time involved, and maintain as much control as possible over the process and the outcomes. Nurses can easily learn and apply negotiation skills to minimize and resolve conflicts with patients, colleagues, administration and other health care providers. Encountering conflict is not negative. Learning to respond appropriately to conflict and thus minimize its impact and preserve relationships are necessary skills in today's health care arena.