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Harm Reduction Community of Practice < Back Priyanka (Pri) Jani (she/her) BScN, RN, NSWOC Student Harm Reduction Community of Practice Priyanka (Pri) has worked on Haudenosaunee, Missisaugas, Attiwonderonk, and Anishinabewaki land (Hamilton and Kitchener) since early 2020 and has been working in a variety of different settings including long-term care, public health, and community care. In these spaces, she developed her skills as a nurse, a leader, and a learner. In 2021, Pri started working as a Consumption Treatment Service (CTS) nurse with Sanguen Health Centre and joined the non-profit Student Overdose Prevention Education Network (SOPEN) as a volunteer. Pri is now on the Board of Directors of SOPEN and responsible for developing educational harm reduction and drug education content for workshops in Hamilton. Priyanka aims to continue harm reduction advocacy through the lens of wound, ostomy, and continence care to provide people who are unhoused and people who use drugs with the access to care they deserve.

President's Award The NSWOCC President’s award for excellence in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing is awarded annually to a NSWOCC member in recognition of their achievement towards nursing leadership in the specialty of wound, ostomy and continence and advocates for the highest quality of nursing to individuals with challenges in wound, ostomy and continence. Purpose: The purpose of this award is to provide annual recognition of a NSWOCC nurse or team of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence who made an outstanding contribution to the mission, vision and values of the NSWOCC through: the advancement of the NSWOC nursing specialty; the demonstration of exceptional nursing leadership in the NSWOC specialty; and contributions to the NSWOCC organization. Eligibility: The individual has a NSWOCC membership in the category of Active, Honorary or Retired. Criteria: The following criteria may be used in nomination of an individual: The individual has shown leadership qualities through the display of competency in practice and advocates for the highest quality of NSWOC practice. This includes integrity, innovation and advancement of the specialty. Has shown commitment and dedication to the NSWOCC in achieving the mission, vision and values of the organization. The individual has shown collaborative partnership through volunteer activities with NSWOCC and other related organizations. The individual has shown continued dedication, creativity, determination and vision when advancing the NSWOC specialty through project work, team work, or in the political arena. Nominations: The following criteria may be used in nomination of an individual: Must be received by NSWOCC National Office no later than the deadline set out in the call for nominations – typically the end of February or in March following the applicable year. The Nominator must submit a signed, supporting narrative from him/her regarding the Nominee. Each nomination must further be supported by a minimum of two, and not more than four references that must submit their signed references and mail to the NSWOCC National Office by the deadline outlined above (1). Contact information for the Nominator and all references must be clearly indicated and must reference the name of the Nominee being nominated. The NSWOCC Board will review the nominations. Among the factors considered will be: contributions towards nursing leadership; advancement of the NSWOC specialty; demonstration of the NSWOCC mission, vision and values; strength of support in nominations; and enhancement of the reputation of the NSWOC specialty and the NSWOCC. The NSWOCC Board will develop a “short list” consisting of no more than three nominees whose contributions were, in the Board’s view, the most significant. The NSWOCC President will make the final decision. Each eligible NSWOCC member who was nominated for an award will receive a letter of commendation from the President. Nomination Procedure: If you would like to nominate someone for the President’s Award, please provide the following information, together with your supporting narrative and reference documentation listed above. Mail documentation to: NSWOCC 66 Leopolds Drive Ottawa, Ontario K1V 7E3 Or email to: Cathy Harley, CEO NSWOCC office@nswoc.ca Nominator’s Information Name Title Organization Contact Address City Postal Code Business Phone Home Phone Fax Email Nominee’s Information Name Title Organization Contact Address City Postal Code Business Phone Home Phone Fax Email

The NSWOCC Feature Section of JWOCN publishes announcements and short articles related to practice, program development, education, and quality improvement from the Canadian NSWOC perspective. Submissions are 250-500 words including figures and tables. ​For more information, contact cjwoc@nswoc.ca for free writing and coaching support. The NSWOCC - JWOCN Connection The NSWOCC Feature Section of JWOCN publishes announcements and short articles related to practice, program development, education, and quality improvement from the Canadian NSWOC perspective. Submissions are 250-500 words including figures and tables. For more information, contact cjwoc@nswoc.ca for free writing and coaching support. JWOCN Publication Guidelines

< Back Clinical Specialist (Continence Care) Coloplast Canada Canada View Full Job Description How to Apply Apply online at https://careers.coloplast.com/Default/job/Calgary-Clinical-Specialist-%28Continence-Care%29-AB/901426601/ View Full Job Description Job Description Reporting to the Clinical Specialist - Ostomy, you will be responsible for providing clinical advisory needs and applying our clinical message on behalf of Coloplast with customers and within our sales and marketing team. As a registered nurse, ideally specialized in Continence, this individual provides clinical expertise in the areas of continence care. Activities include clinical education & skills development for internal and external customers, providing clinical expertise related to Coloplast marketing initiatives and serving as a regionally focused clinical resource to the organization. Major Areas of Accountability: Represent Coloplast as a clinical expert Maintain professional credentials and education to maintain status as a clinical expert through board certification as a nurse. Develop in conjunction with marketing and deliver educational programs to a diverse group of internal and external customers. These may be live, web-based, on-demand or on-line programs. Attend approved national and regional conferences and tradeshows as a Coloplast representative, interacting with key customers and attending scientific programs. Report back to senior leadership/training key clinical learnings and opportunities. Develop and maintain relationships with industry Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs). This includes developing KOLs to speak on behalf of Coloplast and enlisting their help with Coloplast committee sessions. Gaining feedback for new potential products. Creates content for Coloplast Professional our external education platform for clinicians (quarterly projects.) Act as a clinical liaison to Consumer Care department and sales force to handle clinical use of product issues – “Ask the Expert.” Develop and execute trainings at the meetings. Contribute articles for professional and end user publications. Marketing program development Collaborate on Marketing initiatives to develop, in conjunction with marketing, clinical education for internal and external customers. Support and train Coloplast employees on the use of clinical evidence to support the brand message of the business areas. Sales team support Align educational resources with key sales initiatives of the business unit. Maximize individual clinical resources and energies towards overall success of business units. Provide clinical support for key account strategic planning and educational initiatives. Own and execute clinical material for onboarding of all new hires. Requirements/Qualifications Essential Qualifications: Registered Nurse with a Bachelor’s Degree Strongly Preferred NSWOC/WOCC certification along with CNA 5+ years experience in a clinical setting working with patients and/or end users Previous medical industry experience an asset Domestic travel required up to 30% - 40% annually Preferred Qualifications: Based in Canada with willingness to travel initially once per month to Alberta Effective written and presentation skills Ability to read, analyze and interpret clinical publications Proven success with organization and time management skills Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite: Excel, Word, and PowerPoint Ability to tailor training and education to serve many audiences High attention to detail and follow-through Previous project management experience preferred Flexible with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks to support marketing and sales needs Self-starter Company/Organization Description Pursuing an ambitious growth agenda, Coloplast develops and markets products and services that make life easier for people with intimate healthcare needs. Employing about 14.000 people and with products available in more than 143 countries, we are one of the world´s leading medical device companies. We are constantly growing our business and always looking for new ways to move forward – we explore, learn and look for new ways of doing things. Coloplast is committed to being an inclusive organization, where people bring their differences to work each day, fulfil their potential and have a strong sense of belonging because – and not despite – of their differences. We therefore encourage all qualified candidates to apply regardless of gender, age, race, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religious belief or physical ability. Visit us on Coloplast.com . Watch the film. Follow us on LinkedIn . Like us on Facebook .

Professional Development < Back Debra Johnston MN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), IIWCC Professional Development Debra Johnston is a Clinical Nurse Specialist certified in Wound, Ostomy and Continence working at University Health Network - Toronto General Hospital. The focus of her practice is to improve the quality of life for patients and their families by developing and promoting quality care through Best Practice Guideline development and education for patients living with chronic wounds, ostomies and fistulae. As part of her advanced practice role, Debra is an active member of the interprofessional team providing complex consultations, and supporting staff and program development using evidence based best practice to improve patient care. Debra has participated in the development of several Best Practice Guidelines pertaining to pressure injuries and ostomy care. She is a Clinical Faculty member for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute Education Program; Faculty and Clinical Advisor for Advanced Ostomy Care and Management at University of Toronto, and an adjunct lecturer for the Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto.

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Virtual Care Toolkit Download now Introduction In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic brought many changes to the personal and work lives of all Canadian health care professionals. The only option for many Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOCs) to continue to provide support and direction to clients with wounds, ostomies, and continence challenges was through virtual care. Most NSWOCs and many health care organizations / employers lacked experience in this method of providing care; furthermore, systems to support both the client and the health care professionals were not in place. Canadian NSWOCs developed a way to support their clients. We learned a lot individually and collectively, from protecting client privacy and information to gathering pertinent data without seeing a client in person. In the fall of 2022, a group of NSWOCs interested in virtual care came together to develop this toolkit to assist Canadian NSWOCs to safely provide virtual care in their practices. No longer are NSWOCs required to figure it out as they go, as many had done in 2020. The NSWOCC Virtual Care Toolkit is divided into five sections: Legal and Regulatory Considerations, Technology, Equity-Oriented Care, Delivery of Virtual Care, and Knowledge Transfer. Within each section, considerations for virtual care are highlighted, and suggestions for addressing these concerns are included. Much of the available literature in the realm of virtual care relates to wound care. The advice offered here for ostomy and continence virtual care is largely the expert opinion of the task force. We have chosen to use the term client throughout meaning a “recipient of care: in the community-client, in residential care-resident, and in acute care-patient.” Read More Quick response (QR) codes have been included in this document to aid you in accessing additional resources. Download the Virtual Care Toolkit Task Force Project Lead M. Laureen Sommerey, RN, BScN, MSN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Members Folashade M. Alalade, MClSc-WH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Helen Arputhanathan, MSc, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), IIWCC Erin Ballard, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Shelly Barnes, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Allison Da Silva, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Rajwinder Dhamrait, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Rhonda Darbyshire, BN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), IIWCC Neal Dunwoody, BA, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Jessica Jones, BN, RN, stomothérapeute, WOCC(C) Anna Kha, MClSc-WH, BScN, RN, CCN(C) Carly St. Michel, MScCH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), IIWCC Acknowledgments Technical writer and project manager John Gregory, IIWCC, ISWA, Opencity Inc., edited and produced this toolkit in collaboration with the task force. Thank you to many individuals for their help with this project at various stages, Rica Cadavez, Stephanie Chadwick, Dawn Damboise, Sara Debbih, Megan Hutton, Ana Kha, Loretta Pike, Nicole Pitcher, Joanna Eloisa Sigue, Amanda Sowiak, Teresa Stone, Veronika Surowiec, Wendy Whelan, Simon Woodside, Christina Yadav, plus our 14 anonymous peer reviewers. Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) operates on the traditional and unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation. Third party trademarks acknowledged.

< Back NSWOC Nurse (RN) Bayshore Home Care Solutions 40 Shellington Pl, Brantford, ON N3S 7Y1, Canada Flexible Casual/Part-Time $67.82/hour View Full Job Description How to Apply Please apply online at: Bayshore Healthcare (ID: 25001799) View Full Job Description Job Description Bayshore is looking for passionate and caring NSWOC Certified Registered Nurse to join our amazing team of professionals. As a member of our team, you will use your clinical judgment and skills to ensure our clients receive the highest quality care they need and deserve. Nursing care will be delivered with compassion, excellence and responsiveness, in the comfort and safety of their specific care setting. If your calling is to be the “difference” by providing outstanding care, then a Nursing career with Bayshore is the Perfect Fit for YOU! Requirements/Qualifications Education: RN level nurses who have graduated from an accredited School of Nursing and hold a current registration with the provincial licensing body. Certification as Nurse Specialized in Wound Ostomy & Continence (NSWOC) Current CPR certification required Other Requirements: Clear criminal background check (with vulnerable sector screening), negative TB test Valid driver’s license, auto insurance and reliable vehicle Company/Organization Description When you JOIN Bayshore, You JOIN a branch team and workplace culture that supports your Nursing Practice. In return, you provide exceptional client services that support our organizational goals. Make ‘Being the Difference’ your Career - Join our Amazing team at Bayshore Home Care Solutions! Bayshore HealthCare is one of the Canada’s leading providers of home and community health care services and is a privately owned company. Bayshore HealthCare is proud to showcase its achievement as a Platinum member of Canada’s Best Managed Companies Program every year since 2006. In 2015, Bayshore achieved the designation for Best Practice Spotlight Organization from the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario. Bayshore Healthcare is also recognized as Canada’s Best Employers in Forbes 2023 list.

< Back Registered Nurse Covenant Health Covenant Zone, Edmonton, Misericordia Community Hospital Regular, Full-Time $39.21-$56.46 View Full Job Description How to Apply Please apply online here View Full Job Description Job Description Your Opportunity: Reporting to the Unit Manager of the Northern Alberta Continence Services Clinic, the Nurse Continence Advisor (NCA)/ Nurse Specializing in Wound, Ostomy & Continence (NSWOC) /Registered Nurse is responsible for and is an expert in the assessing, planning, and implementing a plan of care for women experiencing incontinence and Urology/Gynecology related medical concerns. The NCA independently triages patients referred to the clinic, assesses and recommends the most appropriate modality to address incontinence and implements the plan of care and monitors the effectiveness of the treatment and follow-up. Works in collaboration with family physicians, specialists, community partners and clerical staff. Physical job demands are classified as medium. Description: The Registered Nurse (RN) participates in nursing assessments and interventions, care planning, implementing prescribed treatments, administering medications, evaluating treatments, and monitoring/documenting treatment progress and patient/resident response. Acting as an advocate, coordinator and liaison for the patient/resident, the RN identifies needs and sets priorities in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team. The RN facilitates patient/resident and family education and discharge planning, and may be required to act in a charge nurse capacity. The RN is responsible for the provision of care in accordance with established standards, and the Mission, Vision, Values, policies and procedures of Covenant Health. This position is covered by the terms and conditions of the UNA Collective Agreement. Classification: Registered Nurse Union: COV UNA Unit and Program: Northern Alberta Continence Services Primary Location: Misericordia Community Hosp Location Details: As Per Location Multi-Site: At (UNA only) FTE: 1.00 Posting End Date: 26-AUG-2024 Employee Class: Regular Full Time Date Available: 23-SEP-2024 Hours per Shift: 7.75 Length of Shift in weeks: 12 Shifts per cycle: 57 Shift Pattern: Days Days Off: As Per Rotation Minimum Salary: $39.21 Maximum Salary: $51.46 Vehicle Requirement: Not Applicable Requirements/Qualifications Required Qualifications: Graduate of a Registered Nurse program or recognized equivalent required. Active registration with the College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA) required. Basic Life Support Healthcare Provider (Level C) required. If you have not practiced as a Registered Nurse within the last five (5) years, completion of the following free courses are also required: 1) CRNA Medication Administration Certificate - https://connect.nurses.ab.ca/home/%2Flearning-and-development%2Flearning-modules%2F 2) NextGenU Health Assessment Resources Certification - https://courses.nextgenu.org/course/view.php?id=271#section-0 PLEASE NOTE: This posting is scheduled to close at 23:59 of the posting end date but may be filled earlier if a Regular Employee who holds a position within this unit/program/office expresses their interest in this vacancy by 23:59 on the 5th calendar day following the posting date, under LOU #25. In the event that no Regular Employee from this unit/program/office expresses their interest by the deadline, the vacancy shall be filled under the provisions of Article 14: Promotions, Transfers and Vacancies. Please be advised this posting may be used to fill multiple identical vacancies arising as a result of the administration of the Trial of Modified Posting Provisions. Additional Required Qualifications: At least three (3) years in an Urogynecology/Women’s Health environment. Nurse Continence Advisor Certification (NCA), or Nurse Specializing in Wound, Ostomy & Continence (NSWOC) that includes a clinical placement with an experienced and certified NCA or NSWOC working in continence management (completion of certificate or currently enrolled/willing to be enrolled in the certificate program)-required. Preferred Qualifications: Ability to provide patient-centred care in a sensitive manner. · Demonstration of superior communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to correspond effectively with other care providers. · Proficiency in working autonomously and effectively as a team member. · Proven competency in the preparation/delivering of teaching materials for presentation with groups and individuals. Company/Organization Description

Inaugural NSWOC Fellows Recognizing select individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the tri-specialty of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care CEO Statement Catherine Harley, eMBA, RN, IIWCC At Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC), we support a culture that values and celebrates excellence. Recognizing excellence involves acknowledging and celebrating exceptional performance, achievements, or contributions in the tri-specialty of wound, ostomy and continence specialized nursing care. The goal is to motivate individuals and teams to maintain high standards and foster this culture of excellence. By launching a Fellowship program, NSWOCC has taken a significant step towards recognition focusing on the careers of select individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the tri-specialty. This Fellowship program is grounded in promising practices and we are privileged to be launching the new program on May 24, 2024. On behalf of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC), I am excited to welcome our first, inaugural Fellows. Fellowship represents the highest honour for NSWOCC’s most recognized Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs). NSWOCC honours its clinical thought leaders, its significant voices in education and policy. This Fellowship Program is intended to celebrate contributions to NSWOCC and the nursing specialty of wound, ostomy and continence. Fellows selected for this program are recognized for their major impact on the advancement of the clinical, evidence and practice and are chosen not at their request or intent to be recognized. Rather, Fellows are identified and chosen based on outstanding practice. Within the framework of the tri-specialty, Fellows contribute to critical quality initiatives that support effective, evidence-based patient/resident care. The future of specialized wound, ostomy and continence leadership rests on dedication, shaping thought leadership through education, policy and exemplary nursing practice, and positively impacting change in the specialized areas of wound, ostomy and continence. As the first group of NSWOCC Fellows, these individuals will serve as role models and mentors to the next generation of nurses. As this Fellowship program grows, these individuals will continue to be impactful as a remarkable resource of wisdom and expertise to advance nursing care, education, research and policy leadership. The NSWOCC being inducted as inaugural Fellows reflect a wide diversity of nursing leadership and impact. Every one of these individuals has clearly demonstrated a sustained and powerful commitment to unique issues present in wound, ostomy and continence health. These clinical thought leaders are not only viewed by their peers as leaders in the field of the tri-specialty of wound, ostomy and continence nursing, they are also seen as a leading legacy of the extraordinary leadership contributions they have made. I would like to thank them personally for their dedication and efforts during some very challenging years, where clinical and health system complexity has increased, as have patient needs, acuity, and risk. Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence do not abandon their patients, or their colleagues, or the broader profession – they want the very best outcome and they do what it takes: they care, support, advocate, educate, and lead. As we move into the future, we know we are better for their wisdom, experience and voice. Their impact will shape the future of wound, ostomy and continence specialized healthcare provision in Canada, and inspire the next generation of nurses in the field. For making a difference for nurses, aligned healthcare professionals and patients, we salute you. They deserve to hold the credential of NSWOCC – Fellow in Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence, and are worthy holders of this credential. We celebrate you, we recognize you and we look forward to many more NSWOCCs following in your footsteps as we move into the future. 2025 Inaugural Fellows Nicole Denis, MScN, BScN, NSWOC, FNSWOC Nicole Denis is the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute Preceptor Manager. In 1996 she was the founding director of the Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy Wound, Ostomy and Continence Bilingual Education Program Key Contributions and Recognitions: Founding director of the Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Bilingual Education Program Past President of Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy Mentored numerous nurses in wound, ostomy, and continence care Developed bilingual education ensuring accessible quality training Recipient of the CAET President’s Award for leadership in wound, ostomy and continence Louise Forest-Lalande, MEd, RN, NSWOC, ET, FNSWOC Louise Forest-Lalonde is an Academic Advisor for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute. She is retired from her role as an Enterostomal Therapy Nurse at The Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine. Key Contributions and Recognitions: Past President of the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists (WCET) Led development of Pediatric Stoma Care Best Practice Guidelines Author of books and papers on wound care and stoma management International lecturer on Enterostomal Therapy Nursing She has received several awards, at regional, national, and international levels. Recently she received the Norma N. Gill WCET President Award Dr. Corey Heerschap, PhD, MScCH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Corey Heerschap is the President of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada and is a Wound and Ostomy Clinical Nurse Specialist at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie, Ontario. Key Contributions and Recognitions: President and Past Treasurer of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada Co-chaired development of the RNAO Pressure Injury Best Practice Guidelines and served as an expert panel member on multiple national wound and ostomy guidelines Inaugural Secretary of CPIAP and Education Co-Lead for the Commonwealth Wound Care Resource Alliance Authored NSWOCC designation and credentials position statement Lead editor for upcoming NSWOCC wound care textbook Participated in a wound care mission to Argentina in 2019 Mary Hill, MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Mary Hill is a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence educator and consultant for Integrated Home Care for Alberta Health Services in Calgary where she supports nurses and clients in community care. Key Contributions and Recognitions: Past President and Professional Practice Group Coordinator for NSWOCC Regional Director for North America for the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel Lead for NSWOCC National Conference Planning Core Program for the past 13 years Educator and consultant for community care nurses Author of publications on wound, ostomy, and continence care Participated in a wound care mission to Cambodia Rosemary Hill, BSN, RN, CWOCN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Rosemary Hill is Past President of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada and is a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence for Lions Gate Hospital, North Vancouver Costal Health, in Vancouver, British Columbia Key Contributions & Recognitions: Past President of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Chair of the British Columbia Provincial Nursing Ostomy Committee Recognized with the Award of Excellence in Practice from the Association of Registered Nurses of British Columbia Worked closely with the Ostomy Canada Society on education initiatives, particularly related to the Disability Tax Credit 2024 NSWOC Recognition Award from the Ostomy Canada Society Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, PhD, MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN, FNSWOC Kimberly LeBlanc is the current President of the Canadian Nurses Association and Academic Chair of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute as well an Advanced Practice and Certified Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse working with KDS Professional Consulting. Key Contributions & Recognitions: Current President of the Canadian Nurses Association Founding member of the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel Inaugural Co-chair of the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel Serves on the boards of the World Union of Wound Healing Societies, International Wound Infection Institute, and the Commonwealth Wound Care Resource Alliance Awarded Canadian Nurses Association Order of Merit Award for Nursing Education Author of numerous publications and book chapters Holds academic appointments at Curtin University, McGill University, and Cardiff University Lina Martins, MScN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Lina Martins is a Clinical Nurse Specialist and Certified Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) at London Health Sciences Centre in Canada. She is also the Editor in Chief of The Canadian Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence (Previously the NSWOC Advance). Key Contributions and Recognitions: Editor-in-Chief of The Canadian Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (Previously the NSWOC Advance) Canadian Feature Editor of JWOCN Contributes to Best Practice Guidelines for ostomy and wound care through the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario and NSWOCC She is a mentor and educator to nurses, patients, nursing students, and medical and surgical residents through the Schulich School of Medicine at Western University Member of the NSWOCC conference planning committee x 10 years Dr. Christine Murphy, PhD, MClSc(WH), BSc, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Dr. Murphy works at The Ottawa Hospital Limb Preservation Centre in the vascular surgery department. Currently she has a clinical, education and research focus in complex vascular wounds, diabetic foot ulcer and limb preservation. Key Contributions and Recognitions: Past President of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada Co-lead of Diabetes Action Canada SPOR Network Foot Care Chair of the International Biofilm-Based Wound Care Panel Developed globally recognized Wound Hygiene Consensus Document Faculty member at Western University’s Master of Clinical Science program Dr. Kevin, Woo PhD, RN, FAPWCA, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Dr. Kevin Woo is an Associate Professor at Queen’s University, School of Nursing, School of Rehabilitation Therapy in Kingston, Ontario and Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence at the University Health Network in Toronto, Ontario. Key Contributions and Recognitions: Founding member of the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel Published numerous best practice guidelines and peer-reviewed articles Awarded Canadian Nurses Association Order of Merit Award for Nursing Research Current Co-Chair of the NSWOCC Research Committee Adjunct research professor at Western University

Prevention and Management of Skin Damage Related to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Access the PPE Toolkit The use of PPE has had a dramatic increase since the onset on COVID-19. NSWOCC is providing an evidence summary for the prevention and management of PPE skin related skin injuries called Prevention & Management of Skin Damage Related to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The tool kit contains the following information: Best practice recommendation document Quick Reference Enabler Educational video (temporarily unavailable) Teaching powerpoint This PPE Tool Kit is intended to highlight the emerging concern of PPE-related skin injury and to provide prevention and management solutions for potential PPE related skin injury. Individuals may require a repeat mask fit testing to ensure prevention and management efforts do not interfere with PPE efficacy. Please note that it is the responsibility of each healthcare professional to verify with their institutional infection control team that any measure taken to prevent or manage PPE-related skin injuries do not interfere with the efficacy of the PPE nor are in contravention to any workplace policy.

NSWOCC acts in the public interest for Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence to give national leadership in wound, ostomy and continence promoting high standards for NSWOC practice, education, research and administration to achieve quality specialized nursing care. About NSWOCC Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is a registered charity for over 600 nurses specialized in the nursing care of patients with challenges in wound, ostomy and continence and over 1,400 total Members and Associates. NSWOCC acts in the public interest for Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) to give national leadership in wound, ostomy and continence promoting high standards for NSWOC practice, education, research and administration to achieve quality specialized nursing care. NSWOCC speaks for NSWOCs and gives them a strong national association through which they can support each other and speak with a powerful, unified voice. NSWOCC is working towards taking an active role in legislative policy which could influence the health care decisions that affect NSWOC professionals every day. NSWOCC Position Statement Organizational Structure Mission Leading excellence is our passion. Enhancing lives is our inspiration. Innovation is our commitment. Vision Every person deserves specialized wound, ostomy and continence care. Values Nursing Specialty Excellence. Leadership. Collaborative Partnerships. NSWOCC Leadership Executive Board National Office WOC Institute Core Programs Regional Directors Additional Leadership Untitled Executive Board Executive Board President Corey Heerschap (he/him) PhD, MScCH, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Biography President-Elect Bev Smith BScN, RN, NSWOC Biography Secretary Rebecca Dyck MClSc-WH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Treasurer Misty Stephens MClSc(WH), BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Chief Executive Officer Catherine Harley (she/her) eMBA, RN, IIWCC Biography Regional Directors Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada is a national organization which is set up in five regions to strengthen communication. Each Region is led by a Regional Director who is an elected Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (Member of NSWOCC). There are two regional meetings held per year which all NSWOCC members can attend. The NSWOCC Regional Directors are NSWOCC Board Members and they report to the NSWOCC Executive Board. The Regional breakdown and Regional Directors are as follows: SWAN Director Sharon Hunter RPN, IIWCC, SWAN Biography BC & Yukon Tina Beckerton RN, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Prairies, NWT & Nunavut Angela Koziak BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Ontario Joshua Moralejo MScCH: WPC, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), IIWCC Biography Quebec Audray Lafortune Bsc., infirmière clinicienne, stomothérapeute, PSCC(C) Biography Atlantic Denise Nicholson BN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Regional Directors Core Program Leaders We are pleased to introduce our Core Program Leaders. These programs have produced exemplary work from members of the NSWOCC. Get Involved! If you’d like to get more information about a Core Program, or if you’d like to learn how to get involved, please email office@nswoc.ca . Communauté de pratique française / French Community of Practice Lorryjade Bellerose BScN, RN, NSWOC (student) Biography Community Engagement Jennifer Bilbie MClSc-WH, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), CIC Biography Harm Reduction Community of Practice Lili Berescu (they/them) BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Harm Reduction Community of Practice Priyanka (Pri) Jani (she/her) BScN, RN, NSWOC Student Biography Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Bev Smith BScN, RN, NSWOC Biography Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Michelle Buffalo BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Membership Shelly Barnes BN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography National Conference Planning Mary Hill (she/her) MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Biography Paediatric Community of Practice Emily Woodgate BScN, RN-AP, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography Professional Development Allison Lachaine MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, IIWCC Biography Publications Lina Martins MScN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Biography Research and Practice Co-Chair Kevin Woo PhD, RN, FAPWCA, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Biography SWAN Community of Practice Annemarie Larocque RN, SWAN, IIWCC Biography Core Programs Communauté de pratique française | French Community of Practice “Strengthening the French Language in Wound, Ostomy and Continence” La communauté de pratique francophone vise à facilité l'accessibilité et le partage d'informations professionnelles parmi les membres des ISPSCC partout au Canada, dans le but de favoriser la prise en charge des patients issus de la minorité francophone partout au pays. The NSWOCC French Community of Practice works to improve access to and sharing of professional information among members who speak French, with a focus on enhancing care for Francophone patients. This includes translating key documents like Best Practice Recommendations, Patient Teaching Guides, and Decision Aids, supporting the translation of the NSWOCC and WOC Institute websites, and collaborating with Francophone associations to expand the NSWOC role in Québec. If you would like to join the Community of Practice, please email office@nswoc.ca . Community Engagement "Empowering Our Members to Advocate" This core program focuses on supporting NSWOCs and SWANs in advocating for their roles, advancing specialized wound, ostomy, and continence care, collaborating with external aligned organizations for better wound, ostomy and continence reimbursement for patients, and organizing Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Summits. The Community Engagement Core Program equips members with resources, documentation, and strategies to address issues affecting their role and clinical practice. This includes positioning their role for value at local, regional, and national levels. For advocacy support contact the Board at office@nswoc.ca . Harm Reduction Community of Practice The Harm Reduction Community of Practice, launched by NSWOCC in fall 2023, addresses the needs of underrepresented populations dealing with wound, ostomy, and continence issues. Harm reduction focuses on minimizing the negative health, social, and legal impacts associated with marginalized populations and substance use through policies, programs, and practices. Grounded in justice and human rights, it promotes positive change by working with people without judgment, coercion, or discrimination, and without requiring them to stop using drugs to receive support. This approach can and should be integrated into NSWOC practice to build shared value and strengthen our community. The group has grown to over 90 members, with three meetings held to date. Key activities include developing the Canadian Best Practice Recommendations in Wound Care for People Who Use Drugs (to be launched in April 2025), creating a First Aid Kit Supply List for shelters, and compiling cost-efficient care tips. The Community also maintains a Resource Library for harm reduction-focused wound, ostomy, and continence care research. If you would like to join the Community of Practice, please email office@nswoc.ca . Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program “Supporting Truth and Reconciliation” The Indigenous Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Health Core Program is dedicated to improving care for Indigenous communities by addressing access to NSWOCs, SWANs, and essential medical supplies. The Core Program collaborates on many key projects, such as developing sensor socks for diabetic foot care in partnership with the University of Toronto’s KITE Research Center. The team has also successfully advocated for coverage of disposable negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) through Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB). Additionally, they support scholarships for Indigenous NSWOC and SWAN students and regularly contribute to the Sharing Circle website ( www.sharingcircle.online ) to share resources. At the NSWOCC National Conference, they continue to incorporate Indigenous culture into the planning, awards & recognition, and presentations. If you would like to join the Core Program, please email office@nswoc.ca . Membership Core Program “Building Member Value” The NSWOCC Membership Core Program focuses on enhancing the member experience by fostering engagement, advancing professional development, and promoting collaboration across Canada. The program's priorities include offering continuing education, improving communication between the Board of Directors and members, and supporting networking opportunities. Key achievements include growing membership to over 1,100 members, launching the quarterly newsletter "The Integrity/L’Intègre" , expanding the popular NSWOCC Members Journal Club, and hosting webinars and podcasts on topics like preceptorship and collaboration. The program also plans to introduce new member incentives, a merchandise boutique, and a member award at the National Conference. Members are encouraged to get involved by submitting photos , joining webinars, and joining the NSWOCC Members Journal Club . If you would like to join the Core Program, please email office@nswoc.ca . National Conference Planning Core Program The NSWOCC National Conference Planning Core Program is a dedicated group of 10 volunteers responsible for organizing the annual NSWOCC National Conference, which includes a continuing education program in wound, ostomy and continence. Their goal is to highlight NSWOCs and SWANs as leaders in wound, ostomy, and continence care while providing opportunities for networking and professional growth. Each year, members are invited to submit oral and poster abstract presentations. Paediatric Community of Practice The NSWOCC Paediatric Community of Practice focuses on guiding key initiatives related to paediatric wound, ostomy, and continence care. This group connects NSWOCs with an interest or expertise in paediatric care, providing valuable feedback to the NSWOCC Board of Directors and aligning their efforts with the organization's strategic goals. Key highlights include the completion of the “Paediatric Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis: Canadian Best Practice Recommendations,” which was presented at the 2023 NSWOCC National Conference and shared with NSWOCs across Canada. The group continues to advance paediatric care through webinars, partnerships, and ongoing strategic projects. If you would like to join the Community of Practice, please email office@nswoc.ca . Professional Development Core Program “Setting the National Standard of Practice for NSWOCs” The NSWOCC Professional Development Core Program focuses on advancing professional growth and maintaining high standards in NSWOC practice. The program encompasses several key areas, including National Standards of Practice, Professional Growth, Certification, Position Papers, and Best Practice Recommendations. The Core Program also continues to engage with members through calls for volunteers and opportunities to participate in future projects. For more information or to get involved, members are encouraged to contact office@nswoc.ca . Publications Core Program “Shaping the narrative of Wound, Ostomy and Continence nursing by publishing” The NSWOCC Publications Core Program is dedicated to advancing the dissemination of knowledge in the fields of wound, ostomy, and continence care through publication opportunities. This program facilitates the submission and review of articles for the JWOCN (Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing) and NSWOC Advance , ensuring high-quality content that contributes to the body of knowledge in these specialties. Key activities include managing peer review processes, supporting manuscript submissions, and promoting industry and member contributions. The program also oversees the introduction of innovative for streamlined manuscript management and fosters collaboration with French-speaking colleagues and international publications. Highlights of recent achievements include successful publication timelines with the JWOCN , ongoing expansion of the NSWOC Advance with peer-reviewed manuscripts, and special initiatives such as the Yearly Manuscript Award. The program also hosts workshops to enhance manuscript development and encourages members to contribute their research and case studies. For those interested in publishing or becoming involved, the Core Program invites participation and collaboration to further the advancement of clinical practice and research. Email nswocadvance@nswoc.ca for more information. Research and Practice Core Program “Bringing Clarity to Support Practice Change” The NSWOCC Research and Practice Core Program is dedicated to advancing evidence-based practice and supporting research in wound, ostomy, and continence care. The program focuses on developing Best Practice Recommendations, conducting comprehensive literature searches, and identifying key research opportunities. Core activities include: Research Development : Leading and supporting various research initiatives and projects to enhance clinical practice and patient outcomes. Best Practice Recommendations : Creating and updating evidence-based best practice recommendations to inform and improve practice standards. SWAN Community of Practice “Building Wound, Ostomy and Continence Teams” The NSWOCC SWAN Community of Practice is dedicated to advancing the role of Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWANs) within wound, ostomy, and continence care teams. This community works to support and grow the SWAN role through a variety of initiatives, including educational events, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts. Since 2023, the SWAN Community of Practice, in collaboration with the Membership Core Program, has organized SWAN Week annually during the third week of September. This week-long event is dedicated to celebrating and uplifting SWANs, emphasizing their vital role within the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) team. Throughout the year, the community continues its efforts by hosting regular meetings and information sessions, involving SWANs in workshops and sessions at the National Conference, and developing and sharing the SWAN role description to bolster advocacy efforts across Canada. Additionally, the community writes letters to promote the SWAN role in various healthcare settings and focuses on developing SWAN voices and leadership. This includes enhancing peer-to-peer support and advocating for the SWAN role in long-term care, community care, and acute care environments. If you would like to join the Community of Practice, please email office@nswoc.ca . National Office National Office Chief Operating Officer (COO) Troy Curtis (he/him) BHum(Hons), MBA (Candidate) Bio Chief Research Officer (CRO) Kevin Woo PhD, RN, FAPWCA, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC Bio Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Human Resources Manager Bruce Millar CIM, FCSI, FICB, MBA, CPA, CMA Bio Digital Marketing Coordinator Samaia Aidroos (she/her) Bio Office Administrator Zachary Abraham (he/him) Bio WOC Institute Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute Academic Chair Kimberly LeBlanc (she/her) PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN, FNSWOC Biography Academic Registrar Cheryl Harding Biography Program Coordinator Jonathan Mancor ISWA Biography Administrative Support Shelley Draper Biography Additional Leadership Additional Leadership NSWOCC Industry Advisory Committee (NIAC) Co-Chair Geoff Fournie Biography NSWOCC Industry Advisory Committee (NIAC) Co-Chair Marianne MacMillan-Stacey Biography Nominating Committee Chair Laureen Sommerey MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Biography NSWOCC's 40th Anniversary The History of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing 1776 French surgeon performed the first documented ostomy surgery for bowel blockage. A sponge was attached to the opening with a bandage to absorb any effluent. 1958 Norma Gill offered a position as the first Enterostomal Therapist. 1961 The first formal ostomy education program was developed, and its graduates termed Enterostomal Therapy Nurses. 1964 Bertha Okun who had surgery for Ulcerative Colitis in 1957 graduated from the Cleveland Clinic as an Enterostomal Therapist under the supervision of Dr. Rupert Turnbull becoming the first Canadian Enterostomal Therapist. She went on to be a founding member of the North American Association for Enterostomal Therapists in 1968, now known as the Wound, Ostomy & Continence Nurses Society. 1980 The first Canadian Enterostomal Therapy School is started in Vancouver. 1980 Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy is formed to address Canadian issues related to ET Nursing. 1980 New Canadian Enterostomal Therapy Nursing Certificate Programs Formed. University of Toronto and Université de Montréal open Enterostomal Therapy Nurse certificate programs. 1982 Acute & Chronic Wound Management Enterostomal Therapy Nurse scope of practice expands to include acute and chronic wounds. 1986 Continence Care Enterostomal Therapy Nurse scope of practice expanded to include continence care. 1990 Closure Of Canadian Certificate Programs University of Toronto and Université de Montréal Enterostomal Therapy Nurse certificate programs close due to funding issues. Nurses go to the United States for Enterostomal Therapy Nurse training. 1995 Global Recognition: 55 countries recognize Stoma Therapy Nursing with schools in 21 countries. 1996 The Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy starts bilingual Enterostomal Therapy Nurse Education Program with Nicole Denis as the founding director. 2007 New Online Enterostomal Therapy Nurse Education Program - The Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy ETNEP goes online for the first time. 2008 ET nursing turns 50 years old – one of the oldest nursing specialties! 2008 Enterostomal Therapy Nursing Granted Certification Canadian Nursing Association (CNA) recognizes Enterostomal Therapy Nursing as a specialty and grants Enterostomal Therapy Nurses Certification as Certified Enterostomal Therapy Nurses CETN(C). 2009 First Graduates of The Enterostomal Therapy Nurse Certification Exam - 60 ETNs write the 1st Certification Exam. 2017 Hundreds of Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy Entersomal Therapy Nurse graduates to date. 2018 Enterostomal Therapy Nurse Education Program Technology & Online Simulation - The Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy Academy begins working to bring technology and online simulation to the ETNEP program. 2018 CAET Academy Obtains Library Access - CAET Academy obtains library access for students through the CINAHL database. 2018 CAET becomes NSWOCC - The Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy changes its name to Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). 2018 The Wound, Ostomy & Continence Institute is Born The Canadian Association for Enterostomal Therapy Academy changes its name to Wound, Ostomy & Continence Institute. The Enterostomal Therapy Nurse Education Program (ETNEP) becomes the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Education Progam (WOC-EP). The Knowledge to Practice courses become known as the Wound, Ostomy & Continence Institute Skin Health Program. The CNA CETN(C) certification becomes the WOCC(C) certification.