Professional links: an international program for nursing knowledge exchange

A review of current literature reveals that health problems are remarkably similar worldwide. Achieving optimal health outcomes more efficiently and cost effectively has become a focus of health care providers throughout the world. Although issues are complex, collective strategies can improve health outcomes. Nursing must share in this responsibility by establishing collaborative working relationships with local, national, and international colleagues to seek joint solutions to common problems. The international exchange program, Professional Links, was established to foster such collaboration among professional nurses. The program generates the exchange of ideas and innovations between centers of health care excellence and perpetuates sharing and learning among nurses for the purpose of accomplishing optimal pediatric health at a global level.