How can I ensure that Docker containers running Python and Node.js components communicate effectively?

Consider using Docker's built-in "container networking", allowing you to connect to and communicate with Docker and non-docker workloads effectively. You can create a custom bridge network using the command below:

docker network create

You can attach the containers to the bridge afterward.

Alternatively, you can use environment variables to pass configuration details between containers. However, make sure to expose both containers' necessary ports, and use them for communication.