Help Shape the Next Generation of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Leaders - Become a Clinical Preceptor for the WOC Institute NSWOC Program
Every year, aspiring Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) complete extensive academic studies through the Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute. However, one of the most impactful parts of their learning journey happens outside the classroom: clinical preceptorship.
We are currently seeking experienced clinicians across Canada to join our growing network of volunteer Preceptors and help support the next generation of wound, ostomy and continence professionals.
Who Can Become a Preceptor?
While many of our preceptors are experienced NSWOCs, we are also actively seeking healthcare professionals with advanced expertise in wound, ostomy or continence care, including:
NSWOCs and Enterostomal Therapy Nurses
Nurse Continence Advisors (NCAs)
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists
IIWCC-trained Registered Nurses
Advanced Practice Nurses and Clinical Nurse Specialists with a wound care focus
Clinicians with advanced wound healing education (e.g., MSc in Wound Healing, IIWCC, or equivalent)
Other allied health professionals who meet program requirements and have expertise in wound, ostomy and/or continence care
If you or a colleague in your network has a passion for mentorship, leadership, and helping others grow, we would love to hear from you.
Why Become a Preceptor?
As a Preceptor, you'll play a vital role in helping students bridge the gap between theory and practice while developing confidence and competence in clinical care.
Benefits include:
Giving back to your profession
Supporting the development of future wound, ostomy and continence leaders
Strengthening your leadership, coaching and mentoring skills
Sharing your expertise and clinical experience
Helping improve access to specialized care across Canada
Creating a lasting legacy through education and mentorship
Many preceptors tell us that watching a learner grow into a confident and intelligent capable clinician is one of the most rewarding experiences of their career.
What Does a Preceptor Do?
Supported by the WOC Institute Preceptor Coordinator and Academic Team, Preceptors:
Provide supervised clinical learning opportunities
Orient students to their clinical setting
Demonstrate and support clinical skills
Help students apply theory to practice
Offer ongoing coaching and constructive feedback
Complete clinical evaluations using program tools
Communicate with the WOC Institute regarding student progress
Preceptorships are flexible and coordinated collaboratively between the student, preceptor, and WOC Institute team.
Minimum Qualifications
Preceptors have:
Current professional licensure
At least two years of clinical practice in their specialty area
Completed advanced education in wound, ostomy and/or continence care
Strong communication and teaching skills
A commitment to supporting learner success
Specific eligibility requirements vary depending on whether you are supporting wound, ostomy, or continence students.
Interested in Learning More?
We will be hosting an upcoming information session for clinicians interested in becoming a Preceptor in the near future.
In the meantime, if you’re interested in becoming a preceptor or learning more, please contact preceptor@wocinstitute.ca.
Do you know a colleague who may be interested?
Please forward this email to NSWOCs, NCAs, pelvic floor physiotherapists, IIWCC-trained nurses, advanced practice nurses, clinical nurse specialists, or other healthcare professionals with expertise in wound, ostomy or continence care who may be interested in helping train the next generation of clinicians.
Together, we can continue building capacity and improving access to specialized wound, ostomy and continence care across Canada.
Preceptorship Recognition Award
The Wound, Ostomy & Continence Institute recognizes that our NSWOC Program Preceptors have been instrumental in contributing to the graduation of confident and capable NSWOCs.
Through their generosity in demonstrating their expertise in WOC Nursing and their leadership in the field of WOC Nursing, Preceptors make it possible for each of our NSWOC students to transfer their academic learning to the clinical area. This is good news for patients and the future of WOC Nursing!
On behalf of the NSWOCC Board of Directors, the WOC Institute would like to acknowledge and thank them for their involvement with our students by giving Preceptors who provide 150 hours or more of preceptorship in the same calendar year the reimbursement of their NSWOCC membership the following year.
Wondering what being a Preceptor involves and whether it's the right fit for you?
In a special interview, NSWOCC Membership Core Program Leader Shelly Barnes, RN, BN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) sat down with Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN, Academic Chair of the WOC Institute, to discuss everything you need to know about the Preceptorship Program.
Watch the interview here:
Whether you're an experienced NSWOC, Nurse Continence Advisor, pelvic floor physiotherapist, IIWCC-trained nurse, or another clinician with advanced wound, ostomy or continence expertise, this interview is an excellent place to start if you're considering becoming a Preceptor.
Thank you for considering this important opportunity.
The WOC Institute & NSWOCC Team
