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Play Video Play Video 00:23 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:32 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:29 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:31 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:23 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:32 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:29 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:31 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy. Play Video Play Video 00:23 Publisher Name Video Title This is a great space to update your audience with a description of your video. Include information like what the video is about, who produced it, where it was filmed, and why it’s a must-see for viewers. Remember this is a showcase for your professional work, so be sure to use intriguing language that engages viewers and invites them to sit back and enjoy.

PSW Course Registration Form NSWOCC is offering 200 free registrations to the Personal Support Worker (PSW) and Caregiver Skin Health Course. This will be done on a first come first served basis. Due to the large number of submissions, this form is now closed.

Order NSWOCC Merchandize Pre-Conference Order Form First Name Last Name Email Address I confirm that I will be in attendance at the NSWOCC 43rd National Conference in Calgary, Alberta, and will pick up my pre-conference merchandise order in person. View policy Submit Your order has been submitted. NSWOCC will email you when the order is in process of being fulfilled, and when you can pick it up at the National Conference Boutique. NSWOCC Baseball Cap Type Baseball Cap Colour Black Cost $20.00 NSWOCC Lab Coat Type Lab Coat Colour White Cost $35.00 SWAN Lab Coat Type Lab Coat Colour White Cost $35.00 NSWOCC Branded Charcuterie Board Type Misc Colour Brown Cost $15.00 NSWOCC Mug Type Misc Colour White Cost $6.00 NSWOCC Thermal Beverage Holder Type Misc Colour Stainless Cost $10.00 NSWOCC Water Bottle Type Misc Colour Red Cost $10.00 SWAN Thermal Beverage Holder Type Misc Colour Stainless Steel Cost $10.00 NSWOC T-Shirt (Men) Type T-Shirt Colour Black Cost $25.00 NSWOC T-Shirt (Women) Type T-Shirt Colour Dusty Rose Cost $25.00 NSWOCC Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Core Program T-Shirt (Men) Type T-Shirt Colour Royal Blue Cost $25.00 NSWOCC Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Core Program T-Shirt (Women) Type T-Shirt Colour Royal Blue Cost $25.00 SWAN T-Shirt (Men) Type T-Shirt Colour Black Cost $25.00 SWAN T-Shirt (Women) Type T-Shirt Colour White Cost $25.00 We Will WOC You T-Shirt (Unisex) Type T-Shirt Colour Black Cost $25.00

Industry Associates NSWOCC has two opportunities for industry members to join our Association: either as an Industry Associate, or an Industry Associate PLUS. Industry Associates or Industry Associate PLUS are a company, or an individual who represents a company, whose primary business is related to the field of wound, ostomy, and/or continence care, and who is interested in and supportive of the objectives of NSWOCC. Industry Associates receive exclusive Members-only benefits, while Industry Associate PLUS receive additional discounts, exclusive access, and more. Industry representatives have the option of registering as a company representing more than one individual. When registering, you will just need to enter the contact information for one main contact of the company. Industry Associate $175.00 Annual Registration Fee Associate Type with NSWOCC Register now! Industry Associates receive exclusive Members-only benefits, similar to all other NSWOCC Members and Associates. Industry Associate Plus $500.00 Annual Registration Fee Associate Type with NSWOCC Register now! Industry Associate PLUS receive additional benefits on top of those enjoyed by NSWOCC Members and Associates, including discounts, exclusive access & right of refusal, and more. Industry Associate Plus Key Advantages Discount on Webinars Industry Associate Plus associates are offered a $250 discount on hosting continuing education webinars in partnership with NSWOCC. Learn more: hosting a webinar Priority Access National Conferences First to receive the Corporate Partnership Package of sponsorship opportunities (starting in 2024) 10% discount on the cost of registering company representatives for the National Conference NSWOC Advance First right of refusal for ad placement in the NSWOC Advance Learn more: NSWOC Advance Discount on Industry News Posts Standard cost for an Industry News Post - $500.00 Pricing discounts for: Industry Associate Plus is $300.00 (Total $200.00 per post) Industry Associate is $225.00 (Total of $275.00 per post) Learn more Job Postings Ability to advertise job postings on the NSWOCC job board at www.nswoc.ca/jobs Learn more: Job Board Shared Benefits for both Industry Associate & Industry Associate Plus

Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care / NSWOCC Collaboration PSW Long Term Care Project Application Applications are now closed. Sorry, but this form is now closed. Applicant Information First name* Last name* Home Address (NOT your work address)* Home City* Home Postal Code* Primary Phone Number* Personal Email Address* Work Email (this is YOUR work email)* Date* Year Month Month Day Are you a Personal Support Worker?* Yes No As the applicant, I acknowledge that I need personal access to a computer and the internet to be successful in the program. I also acknowledge that I will need to commit 15-20 hours per week to complete the coursework. Applicant Signature* Drawing mode selected. Drawing requires a mouse or touchpad. For keyboard accessibility, select Type or Upload. Employer/Supervisor Information Employer Name and Facility (if Facility applicable)* Employer Address* Employer Town/City* Employer Postal Code* Employer Phone Number* Supervisor/Manager Name* Supervisor/Manager Email* As the applicant’s supervisor or manager, I acknowledge and support the applicant’s enrolment into the PSW SWAN program. Supervisor/Manager Signature* Drawing mode selected. Drawing requires a mouse or touchpad. For keyboard accessibility, select Type or Upload. Submit NURSES WITH A UNIVERSITY DEGREE ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO TAKE THIS PROGRAM

There has never been a more exciting time to be involved with NSWOCC. By joining NSWOCC, you remain a part of a nationwide network of Nurses who have Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence who promote the highest standards of patient care in the areas of wound, ostomy and continence. NSWOCs are right across the the continuum of care from acute to community Become a Member Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®). By joining, you become part of a strong, supportive, and growing national network of over 1,300: Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWANs) Healthcare professionals & industry partners passionate about advancing wound, ostomy, and continence care. Together, we promote the highest standards of patient care across every setting: Hospitals Rehabilitation Home Care Long-Term Care Clinics & Community As a member or associate, you’ll be part of a dynamic organization that embraces new ways of thinking, innovation, and visionary leadership. The future of NSWOCC is bright—and we want you to help shape it. Join today and be a voice in defining the future of wound, ostomy, and continence care in Canada. Join NSWOCC Register now by clicking the link below. Join NSWOCC Members Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy & Continence Member - $100.00 Available to NSWOCs licensed to practice within Canada. Members have voting privileges. Join now Retired NSWOC Member - $100.00 Canadian registered NSWOCs who are no longer practicing and /or who no longer hold a valid license as a registered nurse within a Canadian province or territory. Members have full voting privileges. Join now Associates NSWOC Student Associate - $100.00 Available to baccalaureate registered nurses or nurse practitioners who are registering for the NSWOC Program through the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Associate - $90.00 Available to graduates of the SWAN™ program. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now Allied Healthcare Professional Associate - $90.00 Available to non-NSWOC and non-SWAN™ healthcare professionals (such as physicians, RPNs/LPNs, MDR certified technicians) who are interested in and supportive of the objectives of NSWOCC and would not qualify as an Industry Associate or Industry Associate Plus associate type. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now Industry Associate - $175.00 An individual who is employed by or represents a company whose primary business is related to the field of wound, ostomy, and/or continence care, and who is interested in and supportive of the objectives of the Corporation. Industry representatives have the option of registering as an organization representing more than one individual. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now International Associate - $90.00 NSWOCs and allied healthcare professionals (such as physicians, RPNs/LPNs, MDR certified technicians and non-enterostomal nurses who are stakeholders in enterostomal therapy patient care) who are not Canadian residents but are licensed in their country of residence. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Student Associate - $90.00 Available to those intending to attend the SWAN™ program. Registrants must be a practical nurse or diploma RN. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now Full-time Student Nurse Associate - $50.00 Available to registered full-time students of an approved certificate, bachelors or diploma RN, LPN/RPN program (proof required). This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now Government/Administrative Professionals Associate - $90.00 Available to professionals such as Facility Directors, Managers and/or Government Administrators. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now Industry Associate Plus - $500.00 An individual who is employed by or represents a company whose primary business is related to the field of wound, ostomy, and/or continence care, and who is interested in and supportive of the objectives of the Corporation. Industry representatives have the option of registering as an organization representing more than one individual. This membership type includes discounts on webinars, conferences and other benefits. This is an Associate registration type. Associates are not voting members. Join now

Register for an upcoming NSWOCC WOC Institute continuing education webinar below, or watch one of the myriad of on-demand webinars located in the "Past Webinars" section at the bottom of the page. Webinars for continuing education Register now or watch on demand! Register for an upcoming NSWOCC WOC Institute continuing education webinar below, or watch one of the myriad of on-demand webinars located in the "Past Webinars" section at the bottom of the page. Certificates of Attendance & Post-Webinar Survey Those who attend a continuing education webinar live on Zoom will automatically receive a certificate of attendance from the NSWOCC WOC Institute within 48 hours. If you would like to receive a certificate of attendance for a recorded webinar, please complete the "Request a Certificate" form below, entering with the code included in the recorded webinar. We are pleased to inform you that effective October 2023, in response to the growing success of our webinar series and the substantial increase in certificate requests, we have introduced an automated system that will instantly generate and deliver your certificate of attendance when you request it through the online form. We are excited about this new development, as it means that you and fellow attendees watching webinars on-demand will no longer experience delays in receiving your certificates. For any webinar related questions or requests please contact: administration@nswoc.ca Request a Certificate of Attendance Upcoming Webinars Management of Edema Mar 02, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EST More info Register now! When and how to use the MPA in community and long-term care Apr 07, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EDT More info Register now! Practical application of Canadian Consensus Statement on VLU management May 19, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EDT More info Register now! DFU and PAD – What to do when treatment options are limited May 27, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EDT More info Register now! Microcirculation in chronic wounds – why is it important? Jun 02, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EDT More info Register now! Cost-effectiveness of MPA in treating VLU - UK & Canadian experiences Jun 09, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EDT More info Register now! Ask the experts – pose questions to the panel Jun 16, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. EDT More info Register now! Disclaimer The views or opinions expressed in the webinar presentations or by the speakers are those of the speakers and/or sponsoring organization and do not necessarily represent the policies or views of the Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). Although reasonable efforts are made to ensure accuracy, NSWOCC, and its agents, take no responsibility whatsoever for errors, omissions or any consequences of reliance on material or the accuracy of information presented. Promotion and hosting of these webinars do not constitute NSWOCC endorsement or assumption of liability for, any claims made in the webinar presentations. Past Webinars Past Webinars Complete post-webinar survey Request a Certificate of Attendance Play Video Play Video 59:04 Caring with Dignity: Exploring the Role of the Unpaid Caregiver Caring for the Incontinent Person. February 19th, 2026 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: Caring with Dignity: Exploring the Role of the Unpaid Caregiver and Their Impact on Caring for the Incontinent Person. Presented by: Marvell Adams Jr. CEO, Caregiver Action Network Michele Mongillo , MSN, BSN, RN Learning Objectives: - Define the unpaid caregiver and their crucial role in the healthcare continuum. - Identify the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of caregivers. - Recognize the physical, emotional, and financial challenges faced by caregivers . - Explore the caregiver challenges with the incontinent person. - Describe key interventions to manage the incontinent person at home. In Partnership with First Quality. Disclaimer The views or opinions expressed in the webinar presentations or by the speakers are those of the speakers and/or sponsoring organization and do not necessarily represent the policies or views of the Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). Although reasonable efforts are made to ensure accuracy, NSWOCC, and its agents, take no responsibility whatsoever for errors, omissions or any consequences of reliance on material or the accuracy of information presented. Promotion and hosting of these webinars do not constitute NSWOCC endorsement or assumption of liability for, any claims made in the webinar presentations. Play Video Play Video 01:02:23 Barriers to Care: Advancing Equity in Indigenous WOC Health January 27th, 2026 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: Barriers to Care: Advancing Equity in Indigenous WOC Health Presented by: Josée Sénéchal, MScCH-WC, BScN, RN, NSWOC Amanda Sowiak, BN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Tina Beckerton, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Introductions by: Bev Smith, BScN, RN, NSWOC Michelle Buffalo, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Learning Objectives: Identify common barriers Indigenous Peoples may face when accessing wound, ostomy, and continence care across different care settings. Reflect on real-life case studies to better understand how systemic, cultural, and social factors influence Indigenous clients’ healthcare experiences. Apply practical, culturally safer strategies to help Indigenous clients navigate barriers and improve access to WOC care. In partnership with the NSWOCC Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program Disclaimer The views or opinions expressed in the webinar presentations or by the speakers are those of the speakers and/or sponsoring organization and do not necessarily represent the policies or views of the Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). Although reasonable efforts are made to ensure accuracy, NSWOCC, and its agents, take no responsibility whatsoever for errors, omissions or any consequences of reliance on material or the accuracy of information presented. Promotion and hosting of these webinars do not constitute NSWOCC endorsement or assumption of liability for, any claims made in the webinar presentations. Play Video Play Video 01:16:52 Advanced Wound Strategies in Lower Limb Care: “Pain - What can you do?" January 21st, 2026 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: Advanced Wound Strategies in Lower Limb Care: “Pain - What can you do?" Presented by: Dr. R. Gary Sibbald, MD FRCPC (Med, Derm), MACP, FAAD, MEd, FAPWCA and Dr. Robyn Evans, MD IIWCC Dr. Sibbald is a dermatologist and internist with a special interest in wound care and education. He is a professor of Medicine and Public Health at the University of Toronto and an international wound care key opinion leader (educator, clinician and clinical researcher). Dr Sibbald is co-founder of the Canadian Association of Wound Care and was the former Director of the Wound Healing Clinic, Women’s College Hospital (1994-2009). He is also a previous president of the World Union of Wound Healing Societies (2012 – 2016). In 1999 he co-developed the International Interprofessional Wound Care Course and has been the director for 33 courses worldwide. He has over 200 publications and is co-editor and chapter author of the Chronic Wound Care 5 textbook. Currently he is the Co-editor in chief of Advances in Skin & Wound Care. Professor Sibbald received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in 2013 and Honorary Doctor of Science from Excelsior College in 2014. He has is the project ECHO lead for Ontario Skin and Wound to develop interprofessional teams for all 14 Ontario Local Integrated Health Networks. Dr. Robyn Evans attended University of Toronto Medical School. Prior to this she did a Bachelor of Science as well as graduate studies in Biochemisty. She completed her family medicine residency at University of Toronto with further training in wound care. Dr. Evans is actively involved in clinical evaluation and management of patients with complex wounds as the Director of the Wound Healing Clinic at Women’s College Hospital. Over these past 15 years she has developed an interest in wound care education and research. She is on the board for Wounds Canada. More recently has taken on the role of co-director of the Wound Champion Program through Wounds Canada. She is a lecturer at University of Toronto and part of the International Interprofessional Wound Course through University of Toronto. Dr. Evans continues to work full time as a community family physician. Play Video Play Video 01:14:45 Revolutionizing Wound Care January 14th and 15th, 2026 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: Revolutionizing Wound Care: Introducing Advanced Antimicrobial Combinations for Enhanced Healing and Bioburden Management Objectives: 1. Describe 4 clinical actions required for true antimicrobial wound cleansing 2. Define tri-associate chemical mechanisms of action Identify 3 key chemicals in the Anasept antimicrobial portfolio 3. List 4 synergistic benefits of combining Anasept solution and gel 4. Discuss clinical management techniques for 6 wound pathologies Presented by: Tami Siewinski, RN, BSN, M.Ed Chief Clinical Officer In partnership with MedTech Solutions Groups Play Video Play Video 01:06:25 Strategies to Improve Wound Healing in Leg Ulcers Monday, December 8, 2025 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: Strategies to Improve Wound Healing in Leg Ulcers This comprehensive series, presented by Canada’s leading thought leaders in wound healing, focuses on advanced strategies for managing lower limb wounds. Each session will delve into specialized topics crucial for healthcare professionals involved in wound care. Save the Dates: All sessions will be held at 6pm ET. Wednesday, Jan 21, 2026: "Pain Management for Wounds" Presenter: Dr. Robyn Evans Webinars a part of this series will also be hosted during these weeks in 2026: February 08, 2026 to February 12, 2026 March 01, 2026 to March 05, 2026 April 05, 2026 to April 09, 2026 May 17, 2026 to May 21, 2026 May 24, 2026 to May 28, 2026 May 31, 2026 to June 04, 2026 June 07, 2026 to June 11, 2026 June 14, 2026 to June 18, 2026 Presented by Dr. Michael Stacey Dr. Michael Stacey is a vascular surgeon at Hamilton Health Sciences and Professor in the Department of Surgery at McMaster University. He also works as a consultant to biomedical companies. He undertook his medical and surgical training in Australia and spent 2 years at St Thomas” Hospital in London UK where he undertook research for his Doctor of Surgery degree (PhD equivalent). He came to Canada from Australia in 2014 as the Surgeon in Chief at Hamilton Health Sciences and was the Chief Medical Executive and Executive Vice President Academic at Hamilton Health Sciences until mid-2023. As well as more than 30 years of practice in vascular surgery, Dr. Stacey has established active research programs in wound healing in Australia and Canada. He was the first President of the Australian Wound Management Association (now Wounds Australia), and the founding Chair of the World Union of Wound Healing Societies. He had previously established a venous leg ulcer clinic and diabetic foot clinic in Perth, Australia and has established a wound clinic based in Hamilton, Ontario. Play Video Play Video 01:10:47 Dermatological Pearls to Optimize Leg and Foot Care Tuesday, Dec 2, 2025 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: "Dermatological Pearls to Optimize Leg and Foot Care" Presenter: Dr. R. Gary Sibbald Join us for the NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar Series in partnership with Perfuse Medtec & geko, titled "Dermatological Pearls to Optimize Leg and Foot Care" This comprehensive series, presented by Canada’s leading thought leaders in wound healing, focuses on advanced strategies for managing lower limb wounds. Each session will delve into specialized topics crucial for healthcare professionals involved in wound care. Save the Dates: All sessions will be held at 6pm ET. Monday, Dec 8, 2025: "Strategies to Improve Wound Healing in Leg Ulcers" Presenter: Dr. Michael Stacey Wednesday, Jan 21, 2026: "Pain Management for Wounds" Presenter: Dr. Robyn Evans Webinars a part of this series will also be hosted during these weeks in 2026: February 08, 2026 to February 12, 2026 March 01, 2026 to March 05, 2026 April 05, 2026 to April 09, 2026 May 17, 2026 to May 21, 2026 May 24, 2026 to May 28, 2026 May 31, 2026 to June 04, 2026 June 07, 2026 to June 11, 2026 June 14, 2026 to June 18, 2026 Dr. R. Gary Sibbald, MD FRCPC (Med, Derm), MACP, FAAD, MEd, FAPWCA: Dr. Sibbald, MD FRCPC (Med, Derm), MACP, FAAD, MEd, FAPWCA, is the founder and Executive Director of WoundPedia as well as the lead of Project ECHO Ontario Skin and Wound. He is a dermatologist and internist with a special interest in wound care and education. Dr. Sibbald is also a professor of medicine and public health at the University of Toronto. As a wound care educator, clinician, and clinical researcher, he is an international wound care key opinion leader. Dr. Sibbald is the co-founder (1999) and course director of the International Interprofessional Wound Care Course (IIWCC). He is the director of the Masters of Science in Community Health (Prevention and Wound Care) at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, and an investigator with the Institute for Better Health, Trillium Health Partners. Dr. Sibbald is the former president of the World Union of Wound Healing Societies 2008-12. He is a co-editor and chapter author of the Chronic Wound Care textbook. He has over 200 publications and is the current co-editor in chief of the journal, Advances in Skin and Wound Care. Play Video Play Video 01:15:02 Compression Unravelled Monday, Nov 24, 2025 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: "Compression Unravelled" Presenters: Dr. Robyn Evans and Dr. R. Gary Sibbald Join us for the NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar Series in partnership with Perfuse Medtec & geko, titled "Advanced Wound Strategies in Lower Limb Care." This comprehensive series, presented by Canada’s leading thought leaders in wound healing, focuses on advanced strategies for managing lower limb wounds. Each session will delve into specialized topics crucial for healthcare professionals involved in wound care. Save the Dates: All sessions will be held at 6pm ET. Tuesday, Dec 2, 2025: "Dermatological Pearls to Optimize Leg and Foot Care" Presenter: Dr. R. Gary Sibbald Monday, Dec 8, 2025: "Strategies to Improve Wound Healing in Leg Ulcers" Presenter: Dr. Michael Stacey Wednesday, Jan 21, 2026: "Pain Management for Wounds" Presenter: Dr. Robyn Evans Save the dates! Webinars a part of this series will also be hosted during these weeks in 2026: February 08, 2026 to February 12, 2026 March 01, 2026 to March 05, 2026 April 05, 2026 to April 09, 2026 May 17, 2026 to May 21, 2026 May 24, 2026 to May 28, 2026 May 31, 2026 to June 04, 2026 June 07, 2026 to June 11, 2026 June 14, 2026 to June 18, 2026 Dr. R. Gary Sibbald, MD FRCPC (Med, Derm), MACP, FAAD, MEd, FAPWCA Dr. Sibbald, MD FRCPC (Med, Derm), MACP, FAAD, MEd, FAPWCA, is the founder and Executive Director of WoundPedia as well as the lead of Project ECHO Ontario Skin and Wound. He is a dermatologist and internist with a special interest in wound care and education. Dr. Sibbald is also a professor of medicine and public health at the University of Toronto. As a wound care educator, clinician, and clinical researcher, he is an international wound care key opinion leader. Dr. Sibbald is the co-founder (1999) and course director of the International Interprofessional Wound Care Course (IIWCC). He is the director of the Masters of Science in Community Health (Prevention and Wound Care) at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, and an investigator with the Institute for Better Health, Trillium Health Partners. Dr. Sibbald is the former president of the World Union of Wound Healing Societies 2008-12. He is a co-editor and chapter author of the Chronic Wound Care textbook. He has over 200 publications and is the current co-editor in chief of the journal, Advances in Skin and Wound Care. Dr. Robyn Evans, MD IIWCC Dr. Robyn Evans attended University of Toronto Medical School. Prior to this she did a Bachelor of Science as well as graduate studies in Biochemisty. She completed her family medicine residency at University of Toronto with further training in Wound care. Dr. Evans is actively involved in clinical evaluation and management of patients with complex wounds as the Director of the Wound Healing Clinic at Women’s College Hospital. Over these past 15 years she has developed an interest in wound care education and research. She is on the board for Wounds Canada. More recently has taken on the role of co-director of the Wound Champion Program through Wounds Canada. She is a lecturer at University of Toronto and part of the International Interprofessional Wound Course through University of Toronto. Dr. Evans continues to work full time as a community family physician. Play Video Play Video 59:19 Thinking Beyond the Braden Score: Revisiting Pressure Injuries in cancer patients Thursday, November 20, 2025 NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: "Thinking Beyond the Braden Score: Revisiting PI in cancer patients": A Call to Action with Lilibeth Acero. Description NSWOCC & WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinar: "Thinking Beyond the Braden Score: Revisiting PI in cancer patients": A Call to Action with Lilibeth Acero Objectives 1. Determine the limits of the Braden scale. 2. Address gaps and challenges of current practice. 3. Review the unique needs of cancer patients and their skin. 4. Investigate other pressure injury risk factors. 5. Formulate next steps to pressure injury management in fragile patients. Presented by Lilibeth Acero RN, BSN VNS Health, New York City, NY In partnership with Smith+Nephew and Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP), an official interest group of NSWOCC. Play Video Play Video 01:04:48 Maximizing Impact: Management and Nurse Perspectives on SWANs in Action Wednesday, October 29, 2025 Maximizing Impact: Management & Nurse Perspectives on SWANs in Action Purpose Statement: To highlight the transformative role of Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWANs) in enhancing patient outcomes across diverse healthcare settings in Western Canada, and to inspire broader engagement in the SWAN program by showcasing real-world examples from private practice and long-term care. Presentation Objectives 1. Describe the goals and structure of the SWAN Program and its focus on advancing the skills of RPNs/LPNs and diploma prepared RNs 2. Explain the unique contributions of SWAN nurses in delivering evidence-informed care for patients with wound, ostomy, and continence-related conditions 3. Hear firsthand experiences from SWAN nurses and healthcare leaders working in private practice, long-term care, and management roles 4. Identify the benefits of integrating SWAN-trained nurses into clinical teams to improve patient outcomes 5. Explore opportunities for joining the SWAN Program Presented by: - Michelle Carew - Dana Dixon, LPN, SWAN - Kellyn Brewer Moderated by: - Svea Ménard, MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC (Academic Advisor, Co-Lead SWAN Program) - Shelly Barnes, BN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) (Academic Advisor, SWAN Program) Code for webinar certificates: "BC SWAN" Disclaimer The views or opinions expressed in the webinar presentations or by the speakers are those of the speakers and/or sponsoring organization and do not necessarily represent the policies or views of the Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). Although reasonable efforts are made to ensure accuracy, NSWOCC, and its agents, take no responsibility whatsoever for errors, omissions or any consequences of reliance on material or the accuracy of information presented. Promotion and hosting of these webinars do not constitute NSWOCC endorsement or assumption of liability for, any claims made in the webinar presentations. Load More

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility NSWOCC and the NSWOCC Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility Task Force are continuing to make updates and additions to this page. If you have a resource, link, story, or anything else you think would be important to have listed on this page, please contact office@nswoc.ca . Join the Task Force! If you're interested in joining the NSWOCC Diversity Task Force, please email office@nswoc.ca . 2SLGBTQQIA+ WOC Health WOC Health for People of Colour Indigenous WOC Health Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Sharing Circle With the aim to improve accessibility and healthcare for Indigenous people, the Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program is excited to share a brand-new website dedicated to helping patients, NSWOCs, and other healthcare professionals access a directory of resources, education, training, and support related to Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health. As an ongoing project, we’re always looking to broaden our list of resources and links to share. If you have a great resource or tool that you think would be worth sharing with others, feel free to submit it to office@nswoc.ca in order for us to obtain permission to use it on the Sharing Circle website. About the Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Core Program The Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program brings together Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC®), Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWAN™) and key healthcare stakeholders working with Indigenous people who collaborate to identify key issues in the care delivery of wound, ostomy and continence for indigenous, including Inuit and Metis, people. By identifying key issues, this core program makes critical connections at the Federal and Provincial Government levels in order to raise awareness, address issues and improve patient outcomes. Territorial Land Acknowledgement NSWOCC and the NSWOCC Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program respect and affirm the inherent and Treaty Rights of all Indigenous Peoples across this land. We have and will continue to honour the commitments to self-determination and sovereignty we have made to Indigenous Nations and Peoples. We acknowledge the historical oppression of lands, cultures and the original Peoples in what we now know as Canada and fervently believes that the collaboration to improve health care for all contributes to the healing and decolonizing journey we all share together. Visit the Sharing Circle Indigenous WOC Darkly Pigmented Skin WOC Health for People of Colour "Ten top tips: assessing darkly pigmented skin" From Wounds International Date: 28 September 2020 Author(s): Joyce Black , Abigail Simende Learn more "Seeing what lies beneath the surface" From Wounds International Date: 27 February 2020 Author(s) : Joyce Black Learn More Staging Cards for Lightly and Darkly Pigmented Skin From the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) Online poster Learn more Staging for Lightly and Darkly Pigmented Skin From the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) Online poster Learn more Mind the Gap: A handbook of clinical signs in Black and Brown skin From BlackandBrownSkin A clinical handbook of signs and symptoms in blackandbrownskin, aiming to highlight the lack of diversity in medical literature and education. Learn more Webinar Pan-Pacific Pressure Injury Classification System of Multicultural Skin Presenter Dr. Keryln Carville, PhD, RN, STN (CRED) WOC Health & 2SLGBTQIA+ 2SLGBTQQIA+ 2SLGBTQIA+ Basics for Health Care Professionals We believe that education is a key factor in promoting inclusivity and equity. That’s why we created our 2SLGBTQIA+ Basics course for Health Care Professionals (available in both English and French) – 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, making it easier for even the busiest professionals to gain valuable insights and understanding. Learn more Webinar Supporting Gender Reassignment: The Surgeries, Urologic Changes and Continence Disturbances Presenter Ray Croy, BScN RN (c) Pronouns: she/they Gender Surgery Program of BC, Vancouver Coastal Health Trans Care BC Website www.phsa.ca/transcarebc/about/who-we-are Objectives Describe the correct terminology and psychosocial considerations specific to transgender patients Discuss contemporary surgical techniques, complications and urologic changes Explore management of continence disturbances Equity, Diversity, Inclusivity and Accessibility Policy The purpose of this policy is to foster a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible environment within Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Canada (NSWOCC®), a registered charity of over 1000 Members, which includes the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute, promoting respect, understanding, and equitable representation opportunities for all members at all position level. It aims to ensure that diversity is valued, equity is upheld, and inclusion is actively pursued and visible throughout the organization's daily operations. Download

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) is a registered charity and membership-based association for over 500 nurses specialized in the care of patients with challenges in wound, ostomy and continence and over 700 members overall. Contact & FAQs Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute For questions about the Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute, NSWOC Program SWAN Program, or other educational programs, please contact: Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute: Administrative Office Office: Toll-free at 1-877-614-1262 Web: www.wocinstitute.ca Email: administration@wocinstitute.ca Find an NSWOC To locate or contact a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) near your location or travel destination within Canada, use our "Find an NSWOC tool". By using the Find an NSWOC tool, you acknowledge that NSWOCC facilitates contact but is not responsible for the timeliness or outcome of any responses from the NSWOC contacted. If you have an urgent medical concern, please seek immediate care from a healthcare provider or emergency services. Find an NSWOC CNA Certification For questions about CNA Certification, please contact: Canadian Nurses Association 50 Driveway Ottawa, ON K2P 1E2 Telephone: 613-237-2133 or 1-800-361-8404 Fax: 613-237-3520 Disability Tax Credit For questions about the Disability Tax Credit, view the resources below and/or contact: Ostomy Canada Society Email: info1@ostomycanada.ca Phone: 1-888-969-9698 Disability Tax Credit Brochure Disability Tax Credit – Help Yourself CONTACT NURSES SPECIALIZED IN WOUND, OSTOMY AND CONTINENCE CANADA (NSWOCC) Media Inquiries Contact Cathy Harley, NSWOCC Chief Executive Officer office@nswoc.ca National Office Toll Free: 1-888-739-5072 Fax: (613) 523-1878 Email: administration@nswoc.ca Thank you for reaching out to us! Our toll-free phone number is monitored from 9am to 5pm Eastern Time, Monday to Friday. If your call goes unanswered, please leave a detailed voicemail, and we'll respond within 24 to 48 hours. Please note that we do not have a physical office space, so the phone is directed to a personal phone of an NSWOCC contractor. Rest assured, they will d o their best to reply as soon as possible when they are available. We appreciate your understanding and patience. Name Email Phone Address Subject Message Submit Thanks for submitting!

The New Brunswick Wound, Ostomy and Continence Summit: Bringing together government, administrators, clinical leaders, patients, and industry Thursday, June 1, 2023 8:00AM TO 1:00PM ADT Fredericton Convention Centre 670 Queen Street, Fredericton NB Objectives On June 1, 2023, 95 patients, health care administration, government and academic decision makers, senior nurses from acute care, community and continuing care, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs), and industry came together to address the access to specialized wound, ostomy, and continence care in New Brunswick beginning with these four priorities: Funding for more specialized wound, ostomy, and continence nursing positions across the continuum of care so that the transition for the patient is seamless moving from hospital to community. There are no existing formal Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOC) positions in New Brunswick in home care or long-term care. NSWOCs provide thorough assessments, select appropriate products and technologies, and monitor the patient as they move through the system. This provides patient-centred care, optimal clinical outcomes and is shown to save money across the overall provincial health care system. Ensure the appropriate distribution of NSWOCs based on the patient population in each health region. There is a critical imbalance in the number of NSWOCs between Vitalité and Horizon Health Networks and within the Horizon Health Network itself. It is disproportionate to the number of wound/ostomy consults. The number of wound consults has increased by over 200% in some areas of New Brunswick. Provide immediate public coverage for essential ostomy supplies to the 4,570 ostomates, meeting this basic human right of elimination for all New Brunswickers. New Brunswick lags other provinces in providing a well thought out and sustainable plan for ostomy reimbursement. People living with an ostomy in New Brunswick earning over $25,000 per annum should not be expected to pay out of pocket. Individuals should not choose between putting food on the table or essential ostomy supplies for this medically necessary bodily action. Put together an educational strategy to improve wound care knowledge by providing a foundational program for nurses in the Province of New Brunswick. To support this initiative, NSWOCC is providing 30 complimentary educational seats to nurses in New Brunswick to the NSWOCC WOC Institute’s foundational wound management program, part of the practice enrichment series, to enhance knowledge, skills, and judgment of nurses in the province caring for patients with wounds. View the full Agenda View Photos from the Summit Meeting Proceedings Download the Meeting Proceedings Participating Industry Partners

As healthcare spending in Canada continues to climb, pressure on healthcare administrators to deliver cost-efficient care is intensifying—and policymakers are ever-more focused on ensuring quality and system sustainability. Wound, ostomy and continence challenges are common across all Canadian healthcare settings—and their management places a financial burden on the healthcare system. Registered Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) can help alleviate the financial strain facing administrators and policymakers through the provision of higher quality care, reduced costs and improved outcomes for patients. The NSWOC Power of 3 As healthcare spending in Canada continues to climb, pressure on healthcare administrators to deliver cost-efficient care is intensifying—and policymakers are ever-more focused on ensuring quality and system sustainability. Wound, ostomy and continence challenges are common across all Canadian healthcare settings—and their management places a financial burden on the healthcare system. Registered Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) can help alleviate the financial strain facing administrators and policymakers through the provision of higher quality care, reduced costs and improved outcomes for patients. Quick Links Social Media Images Testimonials 3 Main Benefits NSWOCs Across the Continuum of Care Key Resources & Downloadables Power of 3 Webinar Social Media Images "My NSWOC was my support line. She gave me her knowledge, friendliness and respect. To this day I think about how lucky I was that she was available and that she offered her phone number to reach her at any time. Sixteen years later, I live without a large bowel, I have a stoma—and I have never looked back. With the help of this nurse, today I am healthy both physically and mentally." ANN DURKEE Ostomy Patient, Nova Scotia Testimonials FOR A MORE SUSTAINABLE SYSTEM With a tri-specialization in wound, ostomy and continence, NSWOCs are helping address the challenges facing Canada’s healthcare system. Employing NSWOCs is an effective strategy for controlling costs through high-quality, evidence-based care that leads to better outcomes for patients. NSWOCs bring about these benefits as care providers but also as sources of specialized knowledge for interdisciplinary healthcare teams, care consultants to other health professionals, as well as through best practice and protocol development, research and other avenues. A SYSTEM UNDER STRAIN Every year, Canada’s provincial and territorial governments spend more than $250 billion in total on health care (Canadian Institute for Health Information [CIHI], 2018). CIHI data suggests healthcare spending encompasses more than 35% of annual provincial/territorial budgets (CIHI, 2018). In the next decade as the country’s population ages, that spending is going to increase. Longer life expectancies and declining fertility rates are contributing to an overall older demographic (World Health Organization, 2015). With an aging population come higher rates of chronic disease (Harris & Shannon, 2008). Economic models predict that healthcare costs will rise by 1% each year between 2010 and 2036 due to population aging alone (Mackenzie & Rachlis, 2010). THE PRESSURE ON HEALTHCARE LEADERS To get maximum value out of every dollar, healthcare organizations across the country frequently operate under tight financial constraints while continuing to strive to deliver high-quality patient care. Administrators are continually seeking ways to optimize their human and economic resources with evidence-informed clinical decisions and cost-effective products and services. The pressure to be maximally efficient is even greater in jurisdictions like Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia, where healthcare funding is tied to the numbers of patients seen and procedures done. One in four people in Canada will be elderly by 2036. – Statistics Canada, 2018 Administrators are also tasked with meeting the growing demand for services. With too few open beds in hospitals and long-term care facilities, patients face lengthy wait times. Moving patients from hospitals to community care is one strategy to help rein in healthcare costs and free up beds in acute-care settings (Canadian Foundation for Healthcare Improvement, 2018). This also shifts the pressure onto home care services to meet demand and control spending. At the policy level, governments face the unenviable challenge of ensuring both high-quality care and system sustainability. They want to see favourable public reporting numbers, optimal patient access and flows, low hospital readmission rates—and balanced budgets. HOW NURSES SPECIALIZED IN WOUND, OSTOMY AND CONTINENCE HELP Successful management of wounds, ostomy and continence challenges requires specialty care. Common across all Canadian healthcare settings, these issues can be expensive to treat. Wounds, which can be the result of trauma, surgery or a symptom of many common and chronic conditions, alone cost Canada about $3.9 billion a year, or 3% of the country’s total annual health spending (Wound Care Alliance, 2012). The exact number of patients living with acute and chronic wounds in Canada is unknown, as there is no accurate national database. Based on prevalence, the number is high and growing with the aging population. It is known, however, that an estimated 70,000 people in Canada are living with an ostomy, and thousands more each year undergo some form of ostomy surgery (a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy; Ostomy Canada Society, n.d.). People who have an ostomy often experience significant complications that require extensive management and treatment beyond the body-altering initial surgery, adding to patient stress and already substantial care costs. Wound care alone costs Canada $3.9 billion a year, or 3% of total annual health spending. – Wound Care Alliance, 2012 Incontinence is a highly prevalent condition that involves the accidental leakage of urine or feces—and is often mistakenly considered a natural part of aging. Over one million incontinence cases (urinary or fecal) have been reported in Canada, and estimates put the true number closer to 3.5 million—almost 10% of the Canadian population (Taylor & Cahill, 2018). Incontinence is also one of the main reasons cited for admission to long-term care facilities. Excess moisture and bacteria associated with continence challenges can contribute to dermatitis and other skin problems that add to care needs and reliance on the healthcare system. Proactive management strategies are not available to most people living with continence challenges. The costs of body-worn containment products and urinary catheters to the system are also significant and will continue to grow as Canada’s population ages and chronic disease rates climb. Wound, ostomy and continence challenges will continue to be significant drivers of care needs and expenses as Canada’s population ages. The challenge for administrators is to meet these needs through effective and cost-efficient care. A nurse with a tri-specialty—opposed to a general practice, non-specialized nurse—offers a unique advantage for healthcare organizations to meet these challenges. Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) are registered nurses trained specifically to design and implement meticulous, evidence-informed care plans for patients with wound, ostomy and continence challenges. NSWOCs contribute to care effectiveness and cost-efficiency through: Leadership on interdisciplinary healthcare teams, promoting current, evidence-informed methods and cost-efficient care decisions to resolve wound, ostomy and continence challenges Use of advanced and specialized approaches to guide the assessment, treatment and/or management of wound, ostomy and continence challenges Education of patients and their families to improve self-engagement and informed care Contributions to research including guidelines and policies, products and priority areas for future research The combination of these practices leads to higher-quality care, lower costs and better outcomes for patients. THE PATH TO TRI-SPECIALIZATION IN CANADA NSWOCs receive a competency-based education through the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute. The Institute’s Wound, Ostomy and Continence – Education Program (WOC-EP) is designed for registered nurses with at least two years of clinical experience (Wound, Ostomy & Continence Institute, n.d.). The WOC-EP teaches advanced knowledge in the tri-specialty areas with a focus on quality clinical and cost outcomes, and prepares nurses to write the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) certification exam in wound, ostomy and continence. CNA certification grants the CNA WOCC(C) credential, which indicates that core competencies in the three specialty areas have been met with knowledge updated every five years. INDIRECT CONTRIBUTIONS TO WOUND, OSTOMY AND CONTINENCE CARE NSWOCs have developed and participated in numerous national and provincial best practice guidelines and recommendations for wound, ostomy and continence challenges that help healthcare professionals make better decisions and prioritize care plans. Examples include NSWOCC’s (2018) Nursing Best Practice Recommendations for Enterocutaneous Fistula and Enteroatmospheric Fistula, Wounds Canada’s (2017) Best Practices for Skin and Wound Management, the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario’s (2019) Ostomy Best Practice Guidelines, best practice recommendations for intermittent catheterization, and several guidelines for the prevention and treatment of skin tears (International Skin Tear Advisory Panel, n.d.). This work promotes evidence-based practice and higher-quality wound, ostomy and continence care delivery in practice settings across the country. About 70,000 people in Canada are living with an ostomy, and thousands more each year undergo some form of ostomy surgery. – Ostomy Canada Society, n.d. 3 Main Benefits BENEFIT 1: HIGHER QUALITY CARE High-quality care improves outcomes for patients and care providers. This includes shorter stays and reduced care costs through lower rates of hospital-acquired conditions such as pressure injuries (Boyle, Bergquist-Beringer, & Cramer, 2017). Rates of hospital-acquired conditions are an important indicator of overall performance, which makes minimizing these a key priority for healthcare administrators. CARE BASED ON EVIDENCE AND SUPPORTED BY TRUST A literature review examining NSWOCs’ impact in home care for patients with wounds identified numerous benefits when an NSWOC was involved directly in administering care or as a consultant to other care providers (Baich, Wilson, & Cummings, 2010). Benefits included greater healing success, faster healing times, increased interest in wound care education among other nurses, and the introduction of standardized protocols for wound care (Baich et al., 2010). Benefits of NSWOC care have also been observedin the other tri-specialty areas (Westra, Bliss, Savik, Hou, & Borchert, 2013; Taneja et al., 2017). NSWOCs tend to be dedicated patient advocates, ensuring patients receive the most appropriate care for their circumstances. This helps build trust between patient and provider, which is a critical role given the intimate nature of wound, ostomy and continence conditions. As Baker (2001) put it, an NSWOC “… acts as an advocate when she [or he] enhances the patient’s sense of personhood, self-worth, and dignity.” Pressure injuries occur with a mean prevalence rate of 26% across Canadian healthcare settings. – Woodbury & Houghton, 2004 NSWOCs also contribute to the quality of care as educators of patients and other practitioners (Boyle et. al, 2017). An NSWOC treating a patient who needs an ostomy, for example, can play a significant role in helping patients and their families adjust to life after the surgery (Baker, 2001). They often share their knowledge with interdisciplinary team members and other staff who can then apply it in their own roles. By developing quality-enhancing procedures, guidelines and protocols, NSWOCs inform the selection of suitable, cost-effective supplies and equipment (Boyle et al., 2017). BENEFIT 2: LOWER COSTS Controlling costs is critical across every facet of the healthcare system. The growing prevalence of wounds and high expenditure for wound management across all healthcare settings have made wound care a particular budgetary focus in Canada and around the world. NSWOCs are trained to assess and treat many types of complex wounds with evidence-based strategies that can help prevent complications. Savings through effective wound management can be substantial: the average cost of treating a diabetic foot or leg ulcer in 2007 was $8,000 USD—versus $17,000 USD to treat an infected diabetic wound or ulcer (Kruse & Edelman, 2006). Applied consistently, advanced wound care practices can translate into big savings. One report estimated that Ontario could reduce costs by 66%—for savings of $338 million—by adopting best practices for the treatment of patients with diabetic leg and foot ulcers (Shannon, 2007). Lower rates of infection and amputation would account for $24 million in savings. Similar savings are attainable through the application of NSWOCs’ tri-specialization to patients who have ostomy or continence challenges. Peristomal skin problems (when the skin around the stoma becomes irritated or infected) affect one-third of colostomy patients and two-thirds of urostomy and ileostomy patients (Williams, 2012). This complication can drive up care costs substantially. One study found a higher likelihood of readmission and healthcare costs that were approximately $80,000 USD higher in patients with peristomal skin problems. NSWOCs have the expertise to identify peristomal skin problems early or prevent them entirely, avoiding higher care costs than necessary. By adopting best practices for the treatment of diabetic leg and foot ulcers, Ontario could save $338 million, cutting care costs by 66%. – Shannon, 2007 BENEFIT 3: BETTER OUTCOMES Getting patients out of acute care faster frees up beds for new cases. Through specialized treatment approaches and prevention strategies, NSWOCs measurably reduce durations of hospital stays and facilitate patient access and flow. FASTER HEALING, LESS PAIN Wound, ostomy and continence challenges contribute to pain and discomfort. One study compared the treatment of chronic wounds by NSWOCs and general staff nurses in home care (Arnold & Weir, 1994). Substantially more wounds were healed (78.5%) when an NSWOC provided the care versus a general staff nurse (36.3%). Another compared outcomes in home care patients with surgical wounds, pressure ulcers, urinary incontinence, bowel incontinence and urinary tract infections (Bliss et al., 2013). Those assigned to NSWOCs had more severe conditions than patients assigned to other nurses but showed significant improvement in the number of pressure ulcers and surgical wounds and frequency of incontinence. Incidence of incontinence is twice as high at home healthcare agencies without a specialized wound, ostomy and continence nurse. – Westra et al, 2013 Another study (Westra, Bliss, Savik, Hou, & Borchert, 2013) calculated that home care agencies employing NSWOCs are more likely to see improvements in conditions including pressure ulcers (nearly twice as likely) urinary incontinence (40% more likely), lower extremity ulcers and surgical wounds (20% to 40%), and bowel incontinence (14%). It found specifically that the incidence of incontinence in home healthcare agencies with no NSWOC is twice that of those with an NSWOC. Agencies employing an NSWOC were also more likely to see conditions stabilized, including urinary incontinence (2.3 times more likely), surgical wounds (50%), pressure ulcers (30%), urinary tract infections (20%) and bowel incontinence (16%). NSWOCs also contribute to better patient outcomes by reducing pain associated with certain conditions. For example, patients with superficial infections or infected chronic leg ulcers experienced significant reductions in pain by taking part in NSWOC-directed leg-functioning conditioning activities (Kelechi, Mueller, Spencer, Rinard, & Loftis, 2014). NSWOCs Across the Continuum of Care NSWOCs Across the Continuum of Care NSWOCS IN ACUTE CARE THREE SPECIALTIES IN ONE NURSE The advantage of NSWOCs’ tri-specialization is especially clear when patients frequently have needs that require more than one area of specialty. Some patients have needs in two areas—or all three, which was the case with one patient treated at a hospital in Toronto. The patient needed abdominoperineal resection (APR) surgery. Outcomes of that surgery included wound complications, continence challenges and a permanent colostomy. The NSWOC on the care team was able to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care for the patient’s wound, ostomy and continence needs. The NSWOC was involved from the beginning, including in stoma marking and preoperative patient and family education. Care continued after the operation, with the NSWOC monitoring and attending to this patient’s complex needs even post-discharge. Thanks to a tri-specialty in wound, ostomy and continence, the nurse had the knowledge needed to provide optimal care to this patient. Key Resources & Downloadable Files Brochure Engaging & educational – describes the unique role NSWOCs play & their contribution to patient care in Canada. Download Télécharger Digital Presentation A digital interactive communication piece that complements the other campaign elements, providing a deeper look at the ways NSWOCs make a difference. Download Télécharger White Paper Looks at some of the key challenges patients face accessing the healthcare services they need, & calling out the unique ways NSWOCs contribute to strong patient outcomes. Download Télécharger Key Resources & Downloadables Power of 3 Webinar Webinar Objectives Identify key challenges patients face accessing specialized wound, ostomy and continence care, and identify the unique ways NSWOCs contribute to strong patient outcomes. Provide information to support NSWOCs in communicating their essential role in specialized wound, ostomy and continence care from the bedside to administrators to government. Discuss a clear expression of value that defines the NSWOC profession, its purpose and the unique contribution NSWOCs make to the Canadian Healthcare system. Review the “Power of 3” communication tools that can support positioning NSWOCs for value. Power of 3 Webinar

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