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  • Introducing the PSW & Caregiver Skin Health Course: Empowering Healthcare Professionals for Enhanced Patient Care

    The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute is proud to announce the launch of its latest online educational course: the PSW & Caregiver Skin Health Course. This comprehensive program is meticulously designed to equip Personal Support Workers (PSW) and Caregivers with the knowledge necessary to address skin health challenges adeptly. Skin health is paramount in patient care, particularly for individuals dealing with Moisture-Associated Skin Damage (MASD), skin tears, and pressure injuries. Recognizing the pivotal role PSWs and Caregivers play in preventing skin breakdown and wounds, this course is tailored to empower frontline healthcare professionals with targeted education in those key areas. Course Overview: The fully-online program comprises four modules, allowing participants to commence at their convenience and progress at their own pace over approximately 6 weeks: Unit 1: Maintaining Skin Health Unit 2: Moisture-Associated Skin Damage (MASD) Unit 3: Pressure Injuries Unit 4: Skin Tears Course Outcomes: Registration Information: Registration for the PSW & Caregiver Skin Health Course will open soon. To stay informed and be among the first to register, please email chair@wocinstitute.ca. For further information, please contact Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, Academic Chair of the WOC Institute, at chair@wocinstitute.ca. About the WOC Institute: The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute is committed to providing state-of-the-art, accessible online learning communities for registered nurses and allied healthcare professionals. Our mission is to promote specialized knowledge, skills, and judgment in wound, ostomy, and continence care. About Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC): NSWOCC, a registered charity, serves over 600 nurses specialized in wound, ostomy, and continence care. It advocates for high standards in nursing practice, education, research, and administration, aiming to achieve quality specialized nursing care. Contact Information: Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute: 1-877-614-1262 | chair@wocinstitute.ca | www.wocinstitute.ca Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC): 1-888-739-5072 | office@nswoc.ca

  • Announcing Three New Emerging Leaders Awards!

    NSWOCC is thrilled to unveil the launch of three prestigious "Emerging Leaders" Awards, set to be presented at our highly anticipated NSWOCC 43rd National Conference Banquet and WOC Institute Graduation Ceremony on May 4, 2024, in Calgary, AB. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the sponsors who have generously supported these awards, thereby nurturing the future of the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence specialty in Canada. Application Deadline: April 15, 2024 2SLGBTQIA+ Nurses Award ($500) The 2SLGBTQIA+ Nurses Award is a momentous recognition and financial grant designed to honor the achievements and aspirations of students who identify themselves as members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and are actively pursuing education in the Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) Program or Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Program. This award celebrates the diversity, resilience, and dedication within the 2SLGBTQIA+ nursing community while providing vital support to those aspiring to make a positive impact in wound, ostomy, and continence patient care. Sponsored by Perfuse Medtec Inc. Black Nurses Award ($500) The Black Nurses Award stands as a distinguished recognition and financial prize, aiming to celebrate the achievements and aspirations of Black students enrolled in the Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) Program or Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Program. This award acknowledges the dedication, resilience, and potential of Black nursing students who are committed to making a positive impact in the realm of wound, ostomy, and continence patient care. Sponsored by Perfuse Medtec Inc. Nurses of Colour Award ($500) The Nurses of Colour Award is a prestigious recognition and financial grant, aimed at honoring the achievements and aspirations of students of colour enrolled in the Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) Program or Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Program. This award celebrates the dedication, resilience, and potential of students of colour who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the field of wound, ostomy, and continence patient care. Sponsored by NSWOCC

  • Apply now for a WOC Institute Award!

    We are pleased to share each of the following WOC Institute Awards, which are open for applications until April 15, 2024! All the award winners will be presented at the WOC Institute Graduation Ceremony & Banquet at the NSWOCC 43rd National Conference on Saturday May 4th, 2024. We encourage you to read each award’s qualifications and criteria to see which you’d be eligible to apply for! Several awards listed on the WOC Institute website do not required an application. The awards below are those that require an application, with a deadline of April 15, 2024. We would like to sincerely thank all of the sponsors of these awards for supporting the future of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence specialty in Canada. Announcing three new “Emerging Leaders” Awards! 2SLGBTQIA+ Nurses Award The 2SLGBTQIA+ Nurses Award is a recognition and financial award aimed at honouring the achievements and aspirations of those students who identify themselves as members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and are pursuing education in the Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) Program or Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Program. This award seeks to celebrate the diversity, resilience, and dedication within the 2SLGBTQIA+ nursing community while supporting those who aspire to make a positive impact in wound, ostomy, and continence patient care. With a prize of $500, this award aims to provide support and encouragement to deserving individuals as they pursue their educational and professional goals in healthcare. Black Nurses Award The Black Nurses Award is a recognition and financial award aimed at honouring the achievements and aspirations of Black students enrolled in the Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) Program or Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Program. This award seeks to celebrate the dedication, resilience, and potential of Black nursing students who are committed to making a positive impact in the field of wound, ostomy, and continence patient care. With a prize of $500, this award aims to provide support and encouragement to deserving individuals as they pursue their educational and professional goals in healthcare. Nurses of Colour Award The Nurses of Colour Award is a recognition and financial award aimed at honouring the achievements and aspirations of students of colour enrolled in the Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) Program or Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Program. This award seeks to celebrate the dedication, resilience, and potential of students of colour who are committed to making a positive impact in the field of wound, ostomy, and continence patient care. With a prize of $500, this award aims to provide support and encouragement to deserving individuals as they pursue their educational and professional goals in healthcare. 7 Generations Medical Ltd Award This Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Education Program (WOC-EP) Award of $5,250 recognizes an Indigenous WOC-EP graduate who has demonstrated a high degree of volunteerism with, and in support of, people in the Indigenous community.This Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Education Program (WOC-EP) Award of $5,250 recognizes an Indigenous WOC-EP graduate who has demonstrated a high degree of volunteerism with, and in support of, people in the Indigenous community. Hollister Award for Post-Graduate Studies Supported by Hollister Limited, this award is open to an NSWOC who is an active NSWOCC member pursuing a Master’s, or PhD degree. McKin Health NSWOC Trailblazer Award This $2,500 award, sponsored by McKin Health, is presented annually to an NSWOC  Student who has demonstrated leadership and innovation in wound, ostomy, and continence care and who meets the written criteria for the award. Mölnlycke Health Care Indigenous Award The Molnlycke Healthcare Indigenous Award is designed to recognize the Academic achievement of a student who has identified as being Indigenous and who has demonstrated academic achievement in either the NSWOC Program or the Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Program. The successful applicant will also demonstrate how they will use what they have learned from their education program to benefit their community. Ostomy Canada Society’sWound, Ostomy and Continence Education Program (WOC-EP) Award The Ostomy Canada Society Wound Ostomy and Continence Education Program (WOC-EP) Award shall be awarded to two (2) individuals annually in the amount of $1500.00 each to encourage Registered Nurses to pursue a career as an NSWOC with a focus on ostomy care. Vancouver United Ostomy Association Award The Vancouver United Ostomy Association Chapter NSWOC Award is a $1,000 award to recognize BC NSWOC students, or recent graduates, who have demonstrated a high degree of volunteerism with, and in support of, people in the province of BC living with an ostomy.

  • NSWOC® Program Graduates are now eligible for formal credits towards a Master of Advanced Practice (Wound, Ostomy and Continence Specialization) online through Curtin University, Perth, Australia

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Raising the standard for wound, ostomy and continence education in Canada: Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) NSWOC® Program Graduates are now eligible for formal credits towards a Master of Advanced Practice (Wound, Ostomy and Continence Specialization) online through Curtin University, Perth, Australia [Ottawa, ON, Thursday, March 21, 2024] – Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is proud to announce a ground-breaking opportunity for Canadian students who have completed the NSWOCC Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute’s Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC®) Program. NSWOC Graduates will now be able to participate in a Credit Transfer Program, providing them with credit for learning (CRL) towards the Master of Advanced Practice (Wound, Ostomy and Continence Specialization) through Curtin University (Perth, Australia). This innovative approach to master’s studies results in students who have received CRL being able to complete their full Master’s in 12 months, part-time, completely online from anywhere in the world. Applications will soon be open for 2024. To get the latest information, please email office@nswoc.ca. Offered through Curtin School of Nursing, the program is designed to meet evolving health industry demands and offers a unique blend of advanced clinical practice and research skills, catering to the needs of the healthcare sector. The program equips participants with evidence-informed advanced clinical practice skills, explores research methodologies, and culminates in a specialized research project. As the first of its kind offered in Canada, this master's advanced specialty program a solidifies NSWOCC's commitment to raising the standard of wound, ostomy and continence education in Canada, improving nursing excellence and patient outcomes. It further establishes NSWOCC as leaders in the field of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing in Canada. It also presents a valuable opportunity for Canadian healthcare professionals who have graduated from the NSWOC Program to expand their expertise and contribute to addressing critical healthcare challenges, particularly in advanced wound, ostomy, and continence care, while obtaining a master’s degree. For more information about the programs offered by the NSWOCC® WOC Institute, visit our official website at www.wocinstitute.ca. Contact us at chair@wocinstitute.ca or at 1-877-614-1262. About NSWOCC: Dedicated to supporting the national standard of excellence in wound, ostomy, and continence care, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is a registered charity comprising over 600 Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) and over 1,000 total members. Through its accredited educational programs and a team of highly skilled nurse leaders, NSWOCC provides specialized knowledge and skills to healthcare professionals across Canada. Learn more at www.nswoc.ca. About the WOC Institute: The Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute is wholly owned and operated by the association of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). The WOC Institute provides accessible online communities of learning for registered nurses and allied healthcare professionals to promote specialized knowledge, skills, and judgment in wound, ostomy, and continence care. Learn more at www.wocinstitute.ca. Media Contact: Kimberly LeBlanc (she/her) PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCANAcademic Chair, Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Cell: 613-864-1029 kimleblanc@wocinstitute.ca For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact Kimberly LeBlanc at the provided email address or phone number.

  • The deadline to apply to graduate is March 30, 2024

    NSWOC Graduation Ceremony & Applying to Graduate For all students completing the NSWOC Program: If you have already finished the NSWOC Program, or will complete all aspects of the program by March 30, 2024, and plan to write the CNA WOCC(C) certification exam this spring, you're eligible to graduate during the NSWOCC 43rd National Conference on May 4, 2024, in Calgary, AB. To learn more about the conference and register, visit www.nswoccconference.com. To graduate, fill out the application form and provide proof of CNA WOCC(C) certification exam registration or completion. Find the application form at the link provided or under the "Current Students" tab on www.wocinstitute.ca. If you can't attend the National Conference in person, don't worry. Diplomas, pins, and lab coats will be mailed after the event. Please note that diplomas are only mailed once per year, the week after the graduation ceremony. The deadline to apply to graduate is March 30, 2024. For any questions or assistance, feel free to contact: Kimberly LeBlanc (she/her) PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN Academic Chair Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute | Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Cell: 613-864-1029 kimleblanc@wocinstitute.ca www.wocinstitute.ca 66 Leopolds Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1V 7E3 Spring Exam - Initial CNA Certification: Deadline is March 31 For those aiming to write their initial certification exam this Spring, the application period is open from January 15 – March 31. The exam writing window will take place from May 1 – 15, and you can expect to receive your results in December. Don't miss this opportunity to take the next step in your professional journey! Did you know? As an NSWOCC Member, you are eligible for additional Exam Prep Benefits and continuous learning hours to make the renewal process seamless. NSWOC Prep Course for the CNA Certification Exam: Prepare confidently for the CNA Certification Exam with our comprehensive NSWOC Prep Course. The course includes a review of core competencies, relevant wound, ostomy, and continence curriculum, sample exam questions, and a dedicated study group for support. To access the course, log in to www.nswoc.ca and visit the "Members Login" area. Click on "View available downloads" in the left-hand sidebar and select "NSWOCC CNA Certification Prep Course." Join the Online Study Group: As an NSWOCC Member, you have the added benefit of joining the NSWOCC CNA Certification Exam study group. For joining this supportive community, please contact chair@wocinstitute.ca before April 20th, 2024. We are here to support you in your journey toward CNA certification and renewal. Don't miss these valuable opportunities! Reach out to office@nswoc.ca or chair@wocinstitute.ca with any questions or concerns. Certified nurses that are not CNA members can join CNA and save on their renewal fees! If you have a problem logging into your online account, please send an e-mail to members@cna-aiic.ca. If you have any issues with your certification, please send an e-mail to certification@cna-aiic.ca.

  • Your Guide to the NSWOC Program Graduation, CNA Spring Certification Exam, and WOCC(C) Certification Renewal

    Whether you're completing the NSWOC Program, aiming for initial CNA certification, or due for renewal, we have all the information you need to navigate these important milestones. Please read below for important information: NSWOC Graduation Ceremony & Applying to Graduate For all students completing the NSWOC Program: If you have already finished the NSWOC Program, or will complete all aspects of the program by March 30, 2024, and plan to write the CNA WOCC(C) certification exam this spring, you're eligible to graduate during the NSWOCC 43rd National Conference on May 4, 2024, in Calgary, AB. To learn more about the conference and register, visit www.nswoccconference.com. To graduate, fill out the application form and provide proof of CNA WOCC(C) certification exam registration or completion. Find the application form at the link provided or under the "Current Students" tab on www.wocinstitute.ca. If you can't attend the National Conference in person, don't worry. Diplomas, pins, and lab coats will be mailed after the event. Please note that diplomas are only mailed once per year, the week after the graduation ceremony. The deadline to apply to graduate is March 30, 2024. For any questions or assistance, feel free to contact: Kimberly LeBlanc (she/her) PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN Academic Chair Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute | Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Cell: 613-864-1029 kimleblanc@wocinstitute.ca www.wocinstitute.ca 66 Leopolds Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1V 7E3 Spring Exam - Initial CNA Certification: Deadline is March 31 For those aiming to write their initial certification exam this Spring, the application period is open from January 15 – March 31. The exam writing window will take place from May 1 – 15, and you can expect to receive your results in December. Don't miss this opportunity to take the next step in your professional journey! Certification Renewal by Continuous Learning: If you're due for certification renewal, the application window for renewal by continuous learning is open from January 15 – December 15, 2024. Did you know? As an NSWOCC Member, you are eligible for additional Exam Prep Benefits and continuous learning hours to make the renewal process seamless. Eligible Continuous Learning Activities: By registering as an NSWOCC Member, you automatically gain access to 4 continuous learning hours per year, adding up to a total of 20 hours during the five-year period between certification writing and renewal. Participating in NSWOCC activities can also earn you CL hours: NSWOCC Members Journal Club: Qualifies as CL hours under "Independent Study." NSWOCC WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinars: Qualifies as CL hours under "Webinars." WOC Institute Preceptors are eligible for CL hours. Professional Publications: Authors of articles, textbook chapters, teaching guides, or Best Practice Recommendations Documents are eligible for CL hours. All NSWOCC Board Members and Core Program Leaders can claim 25 hours of CL activities. If you have any questions or you don’t see an activity you completed, please do not hesitate to contact CNA at certification@cna-aiic.ca. Continuous Learning (CL) Activities — General Guidelines: The CNA Certification Program offers flexibility in the type of CL activities you can count toward renewing your certification credential. Here are some key guidelines: CL activities must relate to improving knowledge and skills in your nursing practice specialty. Each CL activity must be completed within the five-year certification term. Count one CL hour for each clock hour. Count any CL activities that are 30 minutes or longer. No pre-authorization is required to count your CL activities. Count the same CL activity only once during the five-year term, unless it’s at a higher level. NSWOC Prep Course for the CNA Certification Exam: Prepare confidently for the CNA Certification Exam with our comprehensive NSWOC Prep Course. The course includes a review of core competencies, relevant wound, ostomy, and continence curriculum, sample exam questions, and a dedicated study group for support. To access the course, log in to www.nswoc.ca and visit the "Members Login" area. Click on "View available downloads" in the left-hand sidebar and select "NSWOCC CNA Certification Prep Course." Join the Online Study Group: As an NSWOCC Member, you have the added benefit of joining the NSWOCC CNA Certification Exam study group. For joining this supportive community, please contact chair@wocinstitute.ca before April 20th, 2024. We are here to support you in your journey toward CNA certification and renewal. Don't miss these valuable opportunities! Reach out to office@nswoc.ca or chair@wocinstitute.ca with any questions or concerns. Certified nurses that are not CNA members can join CNA and save on their renewal fees! If you have a problem logging into your online account, please send an e-mail to members@cna-aiic.ca. If you have any issues with your certification, please send an e-mail to certification@cna-aiic.ca.

  • Register and start any of our on-demand courses with just a few clicks!

    Did you know? The Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute offers several on-demand wound, ostomy and continence courses that you can take online, on your own time, and complete at your own pace. These courses are designed for different healthcare professionals from across the continuum of care, from our Advanced Wound Debridement Course for NSWOCs and SWANs, to our Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (coming soon!) Management Courses for healthcare professionals looking to develop their foundational knowledge. Now, enrolling is easier than ever – just a few clicks, and you're on your way to advancing your expertise in wound, ostomy and/or continence care. Check out our new seamless registration process designed to get you started right away. No applications required! Here's how you can embark on your learning journey: On-demand Registration Process Create an Account: Begin by setting up your account using your email and a  password. Select and Pay for Courses: Choose from our array of courses and make a secure payment effortlessly. Start Learning Anytime: Dive into your selected course at your convenience by following simple step-by-step instructions. Learn at Your Pace: Progress through the course content at your own speed. Upon completion, receive your certificate automatically! Don't miss the opportunity to elevate your professional skills. Register for any of our on-demand courses today! For detailed information and registration, click on the links below. Happy learning! About our Courses 2SLGBTQIA+ Basics for Health Care Professionals The Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute is excited to announce the launch of the 2SLGBTQIA+ course for Health Care Professionals – providing health care professionals with the knowledge and tools to provide competent care to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This course is designed to be completed at your own pace and can be completed in 45 minutes, making it easier for even the busiest professionals to gain valuable insights and understanding. Wound Management Course Are you a healthcare professional interested in learning more about wound management? Register today for the online, self-paced, CNA-Accredited Wound Management course! In this course, you will: increase your knowledge related to evidence-based wound care, improve your ability to advocate for patients with wound related issues, enhance your ability to collaborate with wound care specialists, and get access to virtual mentorship and knowledge consolidation opportunities with our team of CNA certified NSWOCs! Ostomy Management Course Are you a healthcare professional interested in learning more about ostomy management? Register today for the online, self-paced, CNA-Accredited Ostomy Management course! In this course, you will: increase your knowledge related to evidence-based ostomy care, improve your ability to advocate for patients with ostomy related issues, enhance your ability to collaborate with ostomy care specialists, and get access to virtual mentorship and knowledge consolidation opportunities with our team of CNA certified NSWOCs! Advanced Wound Debridement Course Are you a graduate of a clinical wound program? Interested in increasing your knowledge around wound debridement? ​ This unique, fully-online, self-paced course is accredited by the Canadian Nurses Association and offers healthcare practitioners the foundation to develop and enhance their theoretical and practical knowledge when managing complex, hard to heal wounds that require debridement. At the end of this course, learners will have advanced debridement knowledge beyond the NSWOC/ SWAN programs. Paramedic Wound Care Associate Course This state-of-the-art course is designed to provide community care paramedics with the ability to provide optimal wound care in collaboration with an interprofessional team. ​ The Paramedic Wound Care Associate Program is a competency-based, self-paced, online foundational course in wound management, expertly guided by a team of Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) certified Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) and in collaboration with a group of community paramedics.

  • Empowering Paramedics to play a critical role in wound care: Paramedic Wound Care Associate Course

    In the ever changing healthcare landscape, community care paramedics play a critical role in the initial triage, treatment, and overall well-being of patients. One aspect that often demands swift and effective attention is wound care. Recognizing this need, we have developed our state-of-the-art Paramedic Wound Associate Course. Let's learn more about it below! About the Course The Paramedic Wound Associate Course, offered by the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Institute, is designed to provide community care paramedics with the ability to provide optimal wound care in collaboration with an interprofessional team. It is a competency-based, self-paced, online foundational course in wound management, expertly guided by a team of Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) certified Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) and in collaboration with a group of community paramedics. On-request onsite education programs, led by NSWOCs, are also available. ​ The course takes participants on a journey through enlightening modules, each presented from the unique perspective of a first responder actively engaged in the front lines of emergency response. From initial assessment to proactive measures aimed at minimizing further harm, every module is designed to enhance the paramedic's ability to intervene promptly and appropriately. Why this Matters The Paramedic Wound Care Associate Course addresses a critical aspect of patient care that all paramedics require expert-level knowledge in. By empowering paramedics with the skills and knowledge needed for optimal wound care, the course not only enhances the quality of care provided but also contributes to a more efficient and streamlined healthcare system. So, what are you waiting for? If you are a paramedic interested in learning more about wound care, then this course is perfect for you! To learn more and register, visit the link below.

  • One week left to register for our SWAN™ and NSWOC® (WOC-EP) programs!

    It's that time of the year again! The deadlines to register for the Winter cohorts of both our SWAN™ and NSWOC® (WOC-EP) programs are fast approaching. If you want to advance your knowledge and increase your skills as a nurse leader, register before Thursday, November 30 2023. Not sure which program is right for you? Learn more about them below! The Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN™) Program For practical nurses and diploma RNs who aspire to become respected nurse leaders and integral members of their organization’s wound, ostomy, and continence leadership team, the CNA-accredited Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN™) Program is the only program in Canada that offers: competency and evidence-informed advanced knowledge in wound, ostomy and continence management confidence to transfer that knowledge into practice; recognition and respect for your competencies through the nationally recognized SWAN™ designation and continuous learning and lifelong support through mentorship and collaboration in a SWAN™-Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) team. SWAN™s are uniquely recognized for their advanced knowledge and their contributions as wound, ostomy and continence nurse champions in their workplaces and communities across Canada. Don't believe us? Just watch this testimonial video from one of our past students below! The NSWOC® Program (WOC-EP) The WOC Institute’s flagship program is our Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) Program. The NSWOC Program is a state of the art, paced, 12-month, online program which prepares BN/BScN’s for the role of a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC®). RN applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree in another area are also eligible to apply for the program. The final exam for the program is the Canadian Nurses Associate (CNA) certification exam, which, upon achievement, enables the NSWOC to use the credential WOCC(C). NSWOCs are sources of specialized knowledge for interdisciplinary health care teams, best practice and protocol development, research, and more. The NSWOC graduate leads Wound, Ostomy and Continence teams, including SWAN and Skin Health graduates, and has the knowledge, skills, and judgement to manage complex patient issues in the areas of Wounds, Ostomy and Continence. So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of these great course offerings and register today, before it's too late!

  • Broaden your Knowledge with our CNA-Accredited Wound Management Course

    Are you a healthcare professional interested in learning more about wound management? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you! Our Wound Management Course offered by the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) Institute is a unique, fully-online, and self-paced course that is sure to benefit your career and broaden your knowledge. Let's learn how below! Course Highlights 1. Elevate Your Wound Care Knowledge Dive deep into evidence-based wound care practices. Gain valuable insights and expertise to improve patient outcomes. 2. Advocate for Wound Patients Enhance your ability to be a strong advocate for patients dealing with wound-related issues. Learn to provide comprehensive care and support. 3. Collaborate with Wound Care Specialists Develop the skills needed to work collaboratively with wound care experts. Foster interprofessional relationships for better patient care. 4. Virtual Mentorship and Knowledge Consolidation Access virtual mentorship opportunities. Benefit from the expertise of our team of CNA-certified Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOCs). 5. CNA Accreditation As the first CNA-Accredited Wound Management course in Canada, you can be assured that this course upholds the highest standard of quality for continuing professional development for nurses across Canada. By registering in a CNA-Accredited course, you are guaranteed to receive high-quality education that meet the CNA's standards of excellence. Don't miss this opportunity to advance your wound management skills and contribute to better patient care. Register today and be a part of a course that's making a difference in healthcare.

  • Why Registering for our Advanced Debridement Course will Help you Advance your Career

    Are you a graduate of a clinical wound program? Interested in increasing your knowledge around wound debridement? ​ Our Advanced Wound Debridement Course offered by the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) Institute is a unique, fully-online, and self-paced course that offers healthcare practitioners the foundation to develop and enhance their theoretical and practical knowledge when managing complex, hard to heal wounds that require debridement. Let's learn why this course can help you advance your career by helping you learn new skills, advance your knowledge, improve your confidence, and receive continuous learning hours that count towards your CNA Certification Renewal! Learn New Skills and Advance your Knowledge The primary objective of this course is to provide learners with advanced theoretical knowledge pertaining to all aspects of debridement. The course will be self-paced online with access to virtual mentorship and knowledge consolidation opportunities with our team of CNA certified NSWOCs. ​ At the end of this course, learners will have advanced debridement knowledge beyond the WOC-EP/ SWAN programs. Specifically, by the end of the course, all graduates will be able to: Appraise the current evidence base for various types of debridement Undertake comprehensive and holistic wound assessment while considering the appropriateness of debridement for a given individual Appraise the current evidence for advanced techniques used in wound debridement Recognize and describe anatomical structures and the non-viable tissue types requiring debridement Discuss the ethical and legal responsibilities and implications related to debridement Improve your Confidence By providing countless opportunities to learn new skills and knowledge, our Advanced Wound Debridement Course will help you grow your confidence and competence as a nurse leader. Don't believe us? Just ask our past graduates! According to a recent Advanced Wound Debridement Student who completed the program, the course allowed them to "feel more confident and competent to utilize various debridement modalities. It has also enhanced my charting - thanks to the educational information provided at a lunch and learn that was a part of the program." Receive Continuous Learning Hours For WOCC(C) certified NSWOCs, your CNA Certification demonstrates your expertise, commitment to ongoing learning in your field, and that you “care to be the best!” However, your certification only stays valid for a 5-year term, and one great way to renew is through Continuous Learning (CL)! By competing the Advanced Wound Debridement Course, you are automatically eligible for 32 continuous learning hours to support you for your CNA Certification Renewal. It's the perfect opportunity to keep your CNA Certification up-to-date! Overall, our Advanced Wound Debridement Course offers many fantastic benefits that will help you advance your career. So, what are you waiting for? Register today! Follow the link below to learn more and register for this great course.

  • A Heartfelt Good Luck to Our NSWOCs Taking the CNA Certification Exam this November

    This November, for many of our dedicated Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC), this fall is a season filled with determination, anticipation, and hard work. With the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Certification Exam writing window or WOCC(C) now open, we want to extend our warmest wishes of good luck and unwavering support to all of you who are embarking on this important journey. Did you know? Graduates of the Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC®) Program have a 95% pass rate for the CNA WOCC(C) Certification Exam. CNA Exam Prep Course: Your Road to Confidence At Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC), we understand the significance of thorough preparation. That's why we offer our valued NSWOCC Members an exclusive opportunity to prepare confidently for the CNA Certification Exam with our comprehensive NSWOC Prep Course. This specialized course provides you with a holistic review of core competencies, a deep dive into the relevant wound, ostomy, and continence curriculum, and valuable insight through sample exam questions. It's more than just a course; it's a pathway to success. To access this invaluable resource, simply log in to www.nswoc.ca and visit the "Members Login" area. Then, click on "View available downloads" in the left-hand sidebar and select "NSWOCC CNA Certification Prep Course." Your journey to certification begins here. The Online Study Group: A Network of Support For those considering joining the online study group for the spring CNA Exam writing window, we have something special in store for 2024. Stay tuned for our upcoming announcement and seize the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and learn from fellow NSWOCs. We're Here to Support You Your journey towards CNA certification and renewal is a testament to your dedication and professionalism. At NSWOCC, we stand with you every step of the way. If you have any questions, concerns, or simply want to connect, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at office@nswoc.ca or chair@wocinstitute.ca. As the CNA Certification Exam for WOCC(C) approaches, remember that you have a community of colleagues, mentors, and friends at NSWOCC cheering you on. We believe in your capabilities, your knowledge, and your unwavering dedication to improving the lives of patients through wound, ostomy, and continence care. We wish you all the best as you embark on this next step of your career!

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