The purpose of this article is to review the concept of emotional labour both from a theoretical perspective and as a conceptual device for examining the role of emotions in nursing and healthcare. The authors explore a range of perspectives on the concept of emotional labour, each of which identifies different aspects that influence the extent to which emotions are permitted, encouraged or deemed appropriate to be expressed in healthcare settings. They also look at the theoretical links between the emotional labour literature and the workplace bullying literature with specific reference to the emotional health and wellbeing of staff and service users, and to the quality of the care being provided, and discuss the role of effective leadership, team working and the management of change in creating a workplace culture which facilitates effective management of emotions and at the same time promotes high standards of quality care.