The aim of this study was to identify the communication strategies used by a group of nurses from the hospitalization and emergency area of a military public hospital in the city of Lima to improve their relationship with patients and family members, and reduce occupational stress. This study used a qualitative approach. Twelve nurses were interviewed and the interaction between them, patients and their relatives was observed. The results indicate that nurses generate various communication strategies in response to the different problems they face with patients and relatives in order to facilitate their daily work and comply with the requirements established by their institution.