Recently, within the framework of international cooperation, Vietnam National Children’s Hospital, in collaboration with Resource Exchange International (REI, USA), organized an advanced training program for pediatric nurses under the theme “Early recognition – Appropriate care – Child safety.” The program was conducted over three days (25–27 March 2026), attracting a large number of nurses from healthcare facilities nationwide, both in person and online.
REI is an international non-profit organization that connects healthcare, education, and community experts to share knowledge, experience, and resources. Through training, professional exchange, and technical support, REI contributes to strengthening the capacity of healthcare workforces in many countries, including Viet Nam.
A large number of nurses from healthcare facilities nationwide participated in the advanced pediatric training course.
Teaching faculty included experienced nursing experts:
- Dr. Jessica Oliver—Teaching Assistant Professor, Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, specializing in pediatric nursing; and
- Dr. Shelly Burke—Clinical Assistant Professor, Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine.
Drawing on practical experience, the experts provided updated knowledge and shared international-standard approaches to pediatric patient care.
Prior to implementation, the REI expert delegation met with Hospital leadership and conducted field visits to several units, including Specialty Outpatient Clinics, the Department of Emergency and Poison Control, the Surgical Intensive Care Unit, and the Department of Orthopedics. On that basis, the training content was developed to match practical needs, ensuring high applicability in clinical care and treatment.
In her opening remarks on 25 March, Ms. Bui Thi Thuy — Head of the Nursing Office, Vietnam National Children’s Hospital, and Head of the Vietnam Pediatric Nursing Sub-Association—emphasized the essential role of continuing education in improving the quality of pediatric care. She noted that, in the context of medical advances, updating knowledge and skills and standardizing procedures are mandatory requirements; and affirmed that the integration of theory, practice, and international collaboration contributes to strengthening clinical capacity and ensuring safety, toward high-quality care standards.
Over the three training days, experts highlighted the role of nursing in the early recognition of risk signs and in timely intervention, thereby contributing to child safety. The program focused on key topics, including:
- Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS)
- Pediatric respiratory conditions
- Pediatric Early Warning Signs (PEWS)
- Palliative and end-of-life care aimed at symptom control and reducing physical and psychological distress to improve quality of life
Illustrative clinical cases were also integrated, helping participants strengthen their real-world application skills.
Enhancing professional quality and keeping pace with advances in medical technology is not only the orientation of Vietnam National Children’s Hospital but also a broader trend in Vietnamese pediatrics. In recent years, the Hospital has promoted domestic and international cooperation, regularly hosting experts and organizing workshops, training programs, and professional exchanges. REI’s participation in nursing training at the Hospital further demonstrates a strong commitment to developing a high-quality healthcare workforce, contributing to improved care and treatment effectiveness in alignment with international standards.
At the end of the program, the parties held a wrap-up session to review results and discuss future directions for cooperation. The experts highly appreciated the nurses’ serious, proactive approach to learning and expressed their desire to continue supporting the Hospital in future training and professional development activities. This is expected to serve as an important foundation for strengthening international cooperation and improving the quality of pediatric care and treatment.
Digital Information Office – Training and Research Institute for Child Health
