The technology we have today, along with the disruptive global health care environment, it is so important to share with, and learn from, our international colleagues. Our military nurses and medics have experienced how enhanced their care in the field is through the technological clinical direction they can receive from the United States when they are deployed across the world. Our academic colleagues' international online courses between countries are becoming more common. eICU, Nurse Practitioner primary care, and specialty care across borders and oceans are becoming more prevalent.
I have always been passionate about studying, consulting, and supporting excellence in international nursing practice and patient care. My enthusiasm for helping publish this edition of Nursing Administration Quarterly stems from wanting ALL in our profession, no matter where we are in the world, to learn from each other.
My first opportunity to bring the world of nursing practice together was 20 years ago. At Hartford Hospital, we hosted many Chinese clinicians, including nurses, in Connecticut for 1 to 5 years. The Chinese came to learn from us, but they taught us so much. Our nursing colleagues had significant expertise in incorporating patients' families into the care of the patients. Twenty years ago, we in the United States, were not as skilled as the Chinese in accomplishing that goal. Our nurses learned the techniques and values of family and/or significant other engagement in the patient's care.
One of my most significant international experiences was as a board member of Joint Commission International. In setting standards and observing surveys, I learned how proud our international colleagues are of their practice, as well as their ability to provide exceptional care with limited resources. They were very excited to ask questions and receive consultation from the survey team, especially from the nurse. They wanted to make certain their organizations, culture, and practice were respected. They did not dread the survey and were fully engaged in sharing and learning during the survey process.
Today, in my role as a surveyor and consultant for Global Healthcare Accreditation, I am enthusiastic about making a difference for all medical travel patients and their companions. As the accreditation standards are met, nurses in various countries will continue to make a difference in patient's outcomes!
In this edition, you will find excellent examples of nursing practice and nursing leadership throughout the world. Our desire is for you to enjoy learning from our colleagues' various international, cultural, and professional experiences. As our colleague Dawna Cato shares with us, "Make sure you go into the international partnership to learn from your partner, meet them where they are, and share without judging."
-Rhonda Anderson, DNSc(h), MPA, RN,
FACHE, FAAN
RMA Consulting, Scottsdale, AZ