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Submitted by Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN, FNSWOC   The WOC Institute is pleased to report that as part of our journey towards honouring Truth and Reconciliation, we have hired Michelle Buffalo to review our programs and to collaborate with the WOC Institute program development team. The aim of this collaboration is to ensure that our courses respect Truth and Reconciliation and have cultural safety embedded into all our courses. We are looking forward to continuing on this journey and our collaboration with Michelle.   The 2024-2025 WOC Institute graduation was held during the NSWOCC National Conference held in Montreal in May 2025. We were thrilled to welcome our new NSWOC and SWAN graduates to the NSWOCC family!   The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute launched the Personal Support Worker (PSW) / Healthcare Assistant & Caregiver Skin Health Course . This comprehensive program is meticulously designed to equip PSWs, Healthcare Assistants, and Caregivers with the knowledge necessary to address skin health challenges adeptly. Skin health is paramount in patient care, particularly for individuals dealing with Moisture-Associated Skin Damage (MASD), skin tears, and pressure injuries. Recognizing the pivotal role PSWs, Healthcare Assistants, and Caregivers play in preventing skin breakdown and wounds, this course is tailored to empower frontline healthcare professionals with targeted education in those key areas.   The NSWOC Program has once again reached full capacity for the Fall 2025 Cohort. Applications are now open for the Winter 2026 cohorts. Tailored for NPs, BScN/BN or equivalent RNs, this Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) and World Council of Enterostomal Therapists (WCET®) accredited program equips professionals with specialized expertise in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence matters.   We are elated to announce the completion of 11 successful cohorts for our CNA-accredited Skin Wellness Associated Nurse (SWAN) Program. Designed for diploma-prepared RNs and RPN/LPNs, this program empowers individuals to specialize in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence concerns. This past year we also welcomed a special cohort of 90 SWANs funded by the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care. Cohort 13 applications are being accepted for the Winter 2026 cohort.   The WOC Institute is proud to share that our on-demand, self-paced courses in Wound Management ( Wound Care Collaborator Course ), Ostomy Management , and Advanced Wound Debridement , have attained accreditation from the esteemed CNA. This pioneering CNA accreditation for wound and ostomy management courses in Canada reaffirms NSWOCC's dedication to nursing excellence and patient outcomes, establishing us as frontrunners in the domain of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing within Canada. Our Continence Management course under review for accreditation, is open to students, learn more at https://www.wocinstitute.ca/continence .  Please visit the links above to learn more about the programs and the groups rates available.   The Community Paramedic Skin and Wound Course  has seen over 300 paramedics from across Canada successfully complete the course. These Paramedic Wound Associates now collaborate with community nurses, enhancing the well-being of individuals in community settings. The self-paced online program, accessible through continuous enrollment, includes mentoring from a CNA-certified NSWOC, featuring weekly office hours and personalized mentoring sessions. To learn more about the Paramedic Wound Management program please visit https://www.wocinstitute.ca/paramedics .   The Industry Skin Wellness Associate (ISWA) Program  offers two levels of online, self-paced courses. Level one incorporates one or more of the ostomy, wound, or continence courses, enriching industry partners' understanding of related issues. ISWA level two aligns with the LEADS framework, fostering leadership development, knowledge enhancement, and improved communication skills for industry partners interacting with healthcare professionals in wound, ostomy, and continence domains. To learn more about the ISWA program please visit https://www.wocinstitute.ca/iswa .   The WOC Institute 2SLGBTQIA+ Basics for Health Care Professionals Course  is a first of its kind in Canada. The course is offered via the https://wocinstitute.dualcode.com learning platform. This course is self-paced online and will take an estimated 6 -10 hours to complete. Course fees for non-NSWOCC Members is $50. In the coming weeks we will be offering this course free for NSWOCC Members. Stay tuned for more information on how to access this unique learning activity.   Our dedicated program development team (Cathy Downs, Carly Lindsay, Nicholas Joachimides, Juliann VanderMeer, and Kim Merritt) are continuously updating existing programs and developing new offerings. If you have a concept for a WOC Institute course or workshop, reach out to us at chair@wocinstitute.ca .   Preparations are underway for revising the WOC Institute prep course tailored for NSWOCs taking the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Certification Exam for WOCC(C). Study materials are accessible on TEAMs and integrated into our virtual study group for exam candidates. To join the study group, please contact us at registrar@wocinstitute.ca .   CNA certification applications:  2025 Fall exams Apply from  June 16 – September 30 Exam writing window:  November 1 – 15 Receive your results in December Renewal by continuous learning Apply anytime from  January 15 – December 15, 2025   Learn more about the application process at www.cna-aiic.ca/en/certification/important-dates . For additional program details, please reach out to us at chair@wocinstitute.ca .

We’re excited to share that the WCET®-NSWOCC® Joint Congress is coming to Vancouver, British Columbia from Friday, April 24 to Tuesday, April 28, 2026  at the Vancouver Convention Centre . Join colleagues from around the world for five days of education, collaboration, and innovation in wound, ostomy, and continence care. Our preliminary educational program is now available! In the meantime, scroll down to view more updates about the upcoming Joint Congress. Early Bird Registration is NOW OPEN! Be among the first to secure your spot and save with early bird rates! Cutting-edge scientific and clinical sessions led by global leaders Hands-on workshops and interactive learning opportunities Networking with peers, thought leaders, and industry partners Access to the latest research, products, and technologies View ticket prices & details: https://www.wcet-nswocc2026.com/register Preliminary Education Program now available! Call for Abstracts: Submission Deadline is October 6 The Scientific Committee invites abstracts for oral and poster presentations across wound care, ostomy management, continence care, education, and leadership. Key dates Online submission opens: Friday, May 2, 2025 Submission deadline: Monday, October 6, 2025 Notification of acceptance: Monday, November 10, 2025 Submission guidelines overview Abstracts: 200–300 words , English. Online submissions only  via the official portal. (Email submissions will not be accepted.) Multiple submissions allowed; max 6 authors  per abstract. Industry submissions:  posters only; max 7 per company  using generic product names. Oral presentation details Format: PowerPoint (Congress template provided; slides in English). Presentation file due:   Saturday, January 10, 2026  (for guidelines review). Duration: 12 minutes  + audience Q&A. Poster presentation details Size & orientation: Portrait poster  (see note below). Language: English. Tips for Submitting an Abstract Whether you’re a seasoned NSWOC or SWAN, or just starting your career, NSWOCC and the WOC Institute want to help you showcase your work and share innovative practices in wound, ostomy, and continence care. Troy Curtis, NSWOCC Director of Operations, and Kimberly LeBlanc, Academic Chair of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute, recorded a presentation on tips for writing oral and poster abstracts. You can watch the recording below. We’ve also outlined our key tips and practical strategies to guide you through the abstract creation process in this news post. Ready to Share your Work? Submit an Abstract Today! Congress Hotels: Walkable to the Convention Centre Make the most of your Congress experience by staying at one of our official hotels. Our headquarters hotel  is the Pan Pacific Vancouver , directly connected to the Vancouver Convention Centre. We’ve also secured discounted room blocks at the Fairmont Waterfront , Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront , and Fairmont Hotel Vancouver . Tip:  Consider sharing a room with a colleague to enhance the experience and lower travel costs.

Whether you’re a seasoned NSWOC or SWAN, or just starting your career, NSWOCC and the WOC Institute want to help you showcase your work and share innovative practices in wound, ostomy, and continence care. Troy Curtis, NSWOCC Director of Operations, and Kimberly LeBlanc, Academic Chair of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute, recorded a presentation on tips for writing oral and poster abstracts for last year's 44th National Conference, but the information remains evergreen for this upcoming Congress in 2026. You can watch the recording below. We’ve also outlined our key tips and practical strategies to guide you through the abstract creation process in this news post. Define Your Core Message and Purpose Start with a Clear Focus: Identify the unique aspect of your work. For example, you might showcase how a new wound debridement technique significantly improved healing times in your facility. Ensure that your abstract stays focused and aligns with the conference’s formatting and word count requirements. Align With Your Experience: Reflect on your workplace projects or quality improvement initiatives. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a junior nurse, your practical experience can make a strong contribution. Embrace Timely and Hot Topics Current Trends Matter: Discuss emerging trends, such as the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in patient care. For instance, one long-term care home successfully implemented AI for real-time translation, enhancing communication between multilingual staff and residents. Other examples: Cost-effectiveness in care practices Quality initiatives improving patient outcomes Address “hot topics” currently discussed among NSWOC and SWAN professionals If you’re already involved in research or projects that are already producing measurable outcomes—now is the perfect time to share your insights and submit an abstract. Be Proactive: Remember, research takes time . Starting to consider what research you might want to share early gives you ample time to develop and refine your abstract when abstract submission deadline approach. Consider Timeless Topics Share new approaches to evergreen issues: Consider topics that consistently impact practice. A case series on skin tears or an evaluation of a new patient education program in ostomy care can provide lasting value, for example. Share solutions to common challenges faced by caregivers Consider Scholarly Reviews: Masters or PhD nurses who are already conducting scholarly reviews and research may consider submitting an abstract on scholarly reviews, systematic reviews, etc. Whether you’re detailing a quality improvement project or presenting a systematic review of best practices, these timeless topics not only add to the literature but also pave the way for publishing in the future. Design an Attractive, Clear, and Informative Poster Clarity and Layout: Your poster should clearly present your introduction, research questions, methodology, results, and key findings/conclusions. A balanced layout helps reviewers quickly grasp your findings. Visual Appeal: Use graphs, tables, and photos (with proper patient and facility consent) to support your data. Ensure that visual elements are clear and enhance the readability of your poster. Proper Attribution: Always include the names of your affiliations and any funding or sponsorship details at the bottom of your poster. Use generic terms for products to avoid bias. Reporting Your Research Effectively Complete Your Study Before Submission: Abstracts presenting incomplete research are typically rejected. Ensure that your project is finished and your data fully analyzed. Detail Your Methods and Outcomes: Whether you’re reporting a randomized control trial comparing wound dressings or a case study on innovative ostomy care, describe your methodology, results, and implications for practice clearly and succinctly. Use data and visual aids (charts/graphs) to support your claims Support with Evidence: Support your claims with solid evidence Present Clearly Craft a Compelling Title and Abstract Grab the Reviewer’s Attention: Create a title that is both informative and engaging. For example, “Revolutionizing Wound Healing: A New Protocol in NSWOCC Practice” instantly conveys the significance of your work. Write Succinctly: Remember: more is less. Aim for clear, concise language that delivers your message in fewer words without sacrificing important points. Review and Revise: Have colleagues proofread your abstract. Fine-tuning the language for clarity, avoiding plagiarism, and ensuring adherence to guidelines is crucial for success. Additional Tips: Consent, Ethics, and AI Patient Consent and Ethics: Always secure consent if your abstract includes patient photos or sensitive data. Verify with your facility’s policy regarding ethics, especially for case studies involving more than three individuals. The Role of AI: While AI tools can help with idea generation or checking grammar, avoid relying on them to write your content. Authenticity is key, and over-reliance on AI can lead to inaccuracies or unintended plagiarism. Don’t Be Afraid of Rejection—Embrace Feedback Value Your Unique Perspective: Whether you're new to poster presentations or a seasoned professional, your work is valuable. Rejection is often a result of not meeting specific criteria, not a reflection of your potential. Learn and Improve: Use feedback from reviewers to enhance future submissions. The NSWOCC National Conference is known for its supportive environment, so take advantage of the opportunity to grow and refine your research presentation skills. Stay Confident: Every submission is an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of wound, ostomy, and continence care Ready to Share Your Work? Submit Your Abstract Today! Your research, case study, or quality improvement project can make a significant impact on wound, ostomy, and continence care. We invite all NSWOCC Members—from students to seasoned NSWOCs and SWANs—to submit your abstracts for the WCET-NSWOCC Joint Congress. Oral Abstracts Deadline:  October 6, 2025 Poster Abstracts Deadline:  October 6, 2025 Need Assistance?   Contact: abstracts@nswoc.ca  or reach out directly to Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc at chair@wocinstitute.ca We look forward to seeing your innovative work and learning from your valuable experiences at the Congress.

Fall is nearly here, which means that the application window for the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Certification renewal by continuous learning is now open!  If you have previously received your CNA Certification, your credential will only be valid for a five-year term. At the end of five years,  you must renew  by rewriting the exam OR by submitting a record of continuous learning hours. Unsure how? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about renewing your certification by continuous learning! Why should you renew?  The  CNA certification  is a nationally recognized nursing specialty credential for nurses. Once certified, you can proudly use the credentials associated with your specialty (WOCC(C) ) after your name. As a CNA-certified nurse, you demonstrate that you "care to be the best", as certified nurses are… Recognized nationally for their practice excellence and commitment to lifelong learning Valued by employers, because their certification demonstrates specialized knowledge and brings many benefits to organizations Viewed as having enhanced professional credibility How do you renew my certification through writing the exam? You must write the exam to become certified for the first time. Although most renew by continuous learning, you can rewrite the exam to renew your specialty certification. Important dates for the Fall application exam and renewal window are outlined below: Apply from  June 16 – September 30 Exam writing window:  November 1 – 15 Receive your results in December How do you renew my certification through continuous learning (CL) hours? Continuous learning is a great way to maintain your CNA certification. If you're due for certification renewal, the application window for renewal by continuous learning is open from January 15 to December 15 2025.   Did you know? As an NSWOCC Member, you are eligible for additional Exam Prep Benefits and continuous learning hours to make the renewal process seamless. Learn more at https://www.nswoc.ca/cna-certification#guide . Eligible Continuous Learning Activities By registering as an NSWOCC Member, you automatically gain access to 4 continuous learning hours per year, adding up to a total of 20 hours during the five-year period between certification writing and renewal. Participating in NSWOCC activities can also earn you CL hours: NSWOCC Members Journal Club: Qualifies as CL hours under "Independent Study." NSWOCC WOC Institute Continuing Education Webinars: Qualifies as CL hours under "Webinars." WOC Institute Preceptors are eligible for CL hours. Professional Publications: Authors of articles, textbook chapters, teaching guides, or Best Practice Recommendations Documents are eligible for CL hours. All NSWOCC Board Members and Core Program Leaders can claim 25 hours of CL activities. If you have any questions or you don’t see an activity you completed, please do not hesitate to contact CNA at certification@cna-aiic.ca . Learn more at https://www.nswoc.ca/cna-certification#guide Not a NSWOCC Member? Not to worry! Simply visit the link below to learn more about becoming a member. Did you know? Completing the Advanced Wound Debridement Course counts for 32 hours that you can apply towards your Renewal by Continuous Learning for the WOCC(C) credential through the Canadian Nurses Association! Learn more about this program by clicking the link below.  Track Your Learning with NSWOCC: To keep track of your CL hours effortlessly, use our brand new tracking form in either an Excel or Word document. Simply log your completed activities and submit them as part of your renewal application at the end of your five-year term. Continuous Learning (CL) Activities General Guidelines: The CNA Certification Program offers flexibility in the type of CL activities you can count toward renewing your certification credential. Here are some key guidelines: CL activities must relate to improving knowledge and skills in your nursing practice specialty. Each CL activity must be completed within the five-year certification term. Count one CL hour for each clock hour. Count any CL activities that are 30 minutes or longer. No pre-authorization is required to count your CL activities. Count the same CL activity only once during the five-year term, unless it’s at a higher level. At NSWOCC, we are here to support you in your journey toward CNA renewal. Don't miss these valuable opportunities! Please feel free to reach out to  office@nswoc.ca  or chair@wocinstitute.ca  with any questions or concerns.

SWAN Week celebrates the impact of Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWANs) in advancing wound, ostomy, and continence (WOC) care across Canada. This year’s theme— We are the Champions for Skin Wellness —highlights the leadership, competency, and day-to-day contributions of SWANs in every care setting. With 300+ active SWANs and SWAN students in our growing Community of Practice, this week recognizes the nurses who champion evidence-based practice, mentor colleagues, and improve patient outcomes alongside Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs). A SWAN Champion in Action As part of SWAN Week, we’re proud to share real stories that highlight how SWANs embody the role of Champions for Skin Wellness.  Recently, one SWAN’s quick thinking and clinical leadership made a life-changing difference for a resident struggling with chronic wounds, as submitted with permission below: Background : The resident was admitted from another facility with long-standing multiple lower leg wounds. These wounds had been present for an extended period and were unresponsive to prior treatments. The resident developed recently a heel ulcer with dry, stable eschar, which was being managed appropriately. All relevant assessments, including comprehensive lower leg elevations, were completed. Interventions to date : Wound care included diligent dressing changes, individualized treatment plans, regular offloading, and OT involvement. Despite these efforts, there was no significant wound improvement. Key events : One evening on a SWAN/Qi project shift, i preformed a random blood glucose check on the resident, which revealed a critically elevated level of 33 mmol/L. I initiated an SBAR communication, resulting in immediate lab work, a STAT order for Humalog insulin, and regular blood glucose monitoring. Follow-up : The next day, blood sugars remained elevated. The primary nurse contracted the physician, who initiated antibiotics for suspected wound infection and implemented a pre-meal sliding scale insulin regimen. The resident had no prior diabetic medications. Outcome : The resident is now on both regularly scheduled insulin and a sliding scale regimen. Since initiation of glycemic management, the wounds have shown measurable improvement and are now on healing trajectory. The resident has also reported improved energy, alertness, and overall well-being. QI impact : This case highlights the importance of considering underlying, undiagnosed conditions such as hyperglycaemia in non-healing wounds. Prompt recognition and intervention not only improved wound healing but also enhanced the resident’s overall quality of life.

Ostomy Canada is gearing up for its  13th Step Up for Ostomy Campaign —taking place on  October 4, 2025, World Ostomy Day . Events will be happening in cities, towns, parks, trails, and venues across Canada. Whether you walk, run, bike, or hike, you can take part in this nationwide movement to support those living with an ostomy, their friends, and families. As a proud  National Charity Sponsor , NSWOCC invites all members to participate by joining our team or donating to our page:  Ostomy Canada Society’s goal is to raise $100,000 to enhance programs that support and empower people living with an ostomy. If you’d like to participate in an event in your city, learn more and register using the link below! Let’s come together as a community to show our support and make an impact.

The WoundPedia Education Foundation is offering applications for IIWCC-CAN scholarships for this year's 2025-2026 course (Starting Sept 18-20 2025). The International Interprofessional Wound Care Course (IIWCC) provides a comprehensive educational experience for wound care specialists and to translate new knowledge into practice.   Eligible applicants include Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses (all levels), Registered Dieticians, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Educators and Management.  Applicants must be employed with wound care as part of their current practice within the Canadian healthcare system and be proficient in English language. For more information or to apply for this scholarship, please visit the following link or use the QR code attached in the flyer below. For any questions, please contact linda@woundpedia.com

The NSWOCC Board of Directors and the Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Community of Practice are proud to announce the theme for SWAN Week 2025: We are the Champions for Skin Wellness! This year’s theme celebrates the leadership, advanced skills, and dedication of SWANs in supporting wound, ostomy, and continence care across Canada. With over 300 active SWANs and SWAN students , these nurses play a vital role in promoting skin health in acute care, long-term care, rehabilitation, community care, and beyond. SWANs work collaboratively with Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) and other healthcare professionals to assess, plan, and deliver evidence-based care, helping to improve patient outcomes and mentor colleagues. This September, join us in celebrating SWANs, the Champions for Skin Wellness, who make a difference every day. Save the Date: September 15–19, 2025 How SWANs are Champions for Skin Wellness They bring enhanced expertise to prevent and manage wound, ostomy, and continence issues. They act as leaders and mentors, upskilling nursing teams and promoting best practices. They help ensure cost-effective, patient-centred care across a variety of healthcare settings. Impact in Practice - The SWAN Difference: “The SWAN at our site has proven to be an indispensable resource in our wound care process. They dedicate one shift per week to focusing on a skin project, which is overseen by NSWOC, and also in reviewing more clinically complicated or acute wounds. This shift is essential in ensuring we maintain a high standard of care for challenging cases. On their other shifts, the SWAN is available to the nursing team to assist with questions and provide support with treatment care plans. They also help with dressing changes when time allows, though their primary role is to act as a reference point and mentor for the nursing staff. Our goal is to encourage greater autonomy among the nurses, and the SWAN plays a pivotal role in guiding and supporting the team in this process.”

Tuesday, July 8, 2025   Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Cathy Harley announces plan to retire by April 30, 2026.   After 21 years leading Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC), Cathy Harley has announced she will be stepping down as CEO on April 30, 2026. Serving the wound, ostomy and continence nursing community since 2004 in this leadership position, Cathy made significant changes to the 45-year-old association including strengthening its governance structure, driving recognition through its name change from the Canadian Association of Enterostomal Therapists (CAET) to NSWOCC in 2018 , and ensuring its financial sustainability to support its short- and long-term strategic objectives. She also supported 11 Core Programs and the management of NSWOCC’s two official interest groups: the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP ™ ) and the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP) . Under her leadership, NSWOCC has focused on the major issues affecting wound, ostomy and continence care delivery from supporting nursing education in wound, ostomy and continence to advocating for better recognition of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) and increased ostomy reimbursement in Ontario (2014). One of her most valued experiences was working with Indigenous nurses to develop a thriving Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Core Program in order to support Truth and Reconciliation. Cathy contributed to securing a contract for training Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWAN ™ ) in Long Term Care with the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care .  Her creativity in the delivery of continuing education in wound, ostomy and continence is evident in the 21 national conferences that she supported. "Cathy has impacted the lives of so many. From those who she works with to those individuals seeking wound, ostomy and continence care, Cathy always supports and encouraged evidence informed patient centered care. Cathy led NSWOCC through the pandemic working tirelessly to support wound, ostomy and continence nurses and patients getting results no matter the circumstance. She kept the Members and staff motivated through some of the most challenging times in nursing. With her strategic thinking and ability to collaborate, she has positioned NSWOCC as a nursing leader in driving positive change for wound, ostomy and continence care in Canada."  - Dr. Corey Heerschap, PhD, MScCH, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC, NSWOCC President When announcing her retirement, Cathy expressed her deep gratitude for the tireless support and invaluable contributions of the many Board Directors, Core Program Leaders, Volunteers, Members, contracted staff, Industry Partners, aligned associations and patients with whom she has been privileged to work with over many years.   A search committee will be established to identify a replacement to carry on this work, comprised of current and past NSWOCC board members, and will be chaired by NSWOCC President Dr. Heerschap. The committee will be conducting extensive outreach to ensure it considers candidates with a wide range of expertise and backgrounds, in keeping with NSWOCC’s commitment to promoting equity, diversity, accessibility, inclusion, and reconciliation in its leadership. The new CEO is expected to assume their role March 1, 2026.

Living with an Ostomy does not mean you need to live with significant restrictions. One of the key aspects of embracing life with an Ostomy is learning to adapt and welcome your "new normal" life! After recovery and finding the right pouching system to fit your body, you can expect to resume an active and vibrant life. In our new series, "Guides to Living with an Ostomy", we will be exploring how you can adapt your life to embrace your "new normal". Below, see some short tips and tricks to embracing your “new normal” when you’re travelling! General Tips and Tricks take at least double the supplies you normally use. Your supplies may not be available where you are travelling or may not be reimbursable outside your home province/territory; some airlines allow you extra carry-on luggage for medical supplies, consult the airline prior to travel to receive these extra accommodations. A letter from your doctor or NSWOC may be useful regarding the need to carry ostomy supplies in your hand luggage; protect your supplies from exposure to heat or cold; keep supplies in your hand luggage to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures and in case of lost luggage; assess the quality of local drinking water; if unsafe to drink, use bottled water avoid delays at customs by carrying a letter from your surgeon that explains your ostomy surgery connect to a leg bag for longer travel to provide extra capacity for urine; ask an NSWOC, your doctor or organization in the resource list about where you plan to visit if flying, ask for an aisle seat near the washroom Additional Tips when Travelling with an Ileostomy or Colostomy consider applying a new pouching system the day before or day of your travels; use every opportunity to empty your pouch even if it is not full. a seat belt must be worn when riding in a vehicle. Protect the stoma from the seat belt by placing a soft foam pad or a small pillow between the stoma and the seatbelt. If you want to learn more about how you can adapt your life to living with an Ostomy, please visit the link below!

NSWOCC is pleased to announce the launch of three new Guides to living with an Ostomy. These are available in both English and French on our website at https://www.nswoc.ca/guides . A Guide to Living with a Jejunostomy A Guide to Living with a Gastro-Jejunostomy A Guide to Living with a Gastrostomy These guides join the previous 2nd editions of the first three Ostomy Patient Teaching Guides, last updated in 2022: A Guide to Living with an Ileostomy A Guide to Living with a Colostomy A Guide to Living with an Ileal Conduit These guides, revised this year, are now available on the NSWOCC website at  https://www.nswoc.ca/guides . On behalf of NSWOCC, we want to sincerely thank all those who worked on this project to produce such a valuable resource for patients, nurses and NSWOCs across the spectrum of healthcare.

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is proud to announce that Kimberly LeBlanc RN, BScN, MN, PhD, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FCAN, and Academic Chair of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute, has been selected for induction into the 2025 Class of Fellows of the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) . As one of only three Canadian nurses  named to this year’s cohort, Kimberly joins an esteemed group of nurse leaders from around the world who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to health and health care. Induction as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing is considered one of the profession’s highest honours, recognizing individuals who have made a lasting impact through leadership, innovation, and scholarship. The Academy will formally induct the new Fellows during its annual Health Policy Conference , taking place October 16–18, 2025, in Washington, DC. The theme of this year’s conference, "Impact Through Integrity and Trust: Our Role as Navigators and Translators,"  reflects the values and vision that leaders like Kimberly LeBlanc embody in their work. Kimberly’s tireless dedication to advancing wound, ostomy, and continence care — both nationally and globally — has been instrumental in shaping clinical education, research, and advocacy. As Academic Chair of the WOC Institute, she has led initiatives that promote excellence in specialized nursing education and foster the next generation of NSWOCs. Please join NSWOCC in congratulating Kimberly LeBlanc on this incredible and well-deserved achievement! Learn more about the American Academy of Nursing and the 2025 Induction Ceremony and more about the FAAN at https://aannet.org/news/news.asp?id=703938