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Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is privileged to have remarkable leaders who shape the future of healthcare. Today, we shine a well-deserved spotlight on Michelle Buffalo, our Indigenous Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Health Core Program Leader, whose work continues to make a profound impact on Indigenous communities across Canada. In an inspiring feature published in Canadian Nurse , Michelle’s unique journey as a nurse and her deep commitment to serving Indigenous communities are highlighted. As a member of Alberta’s Samson Cree Nation, Michelle has dedicated her career to not only advancing wound, ostomy, and continence care but also to blending cultural sensitivity with specialized skills. Her work in remote communities like Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, where she works with the Nunee Health Board Society, reflects her relentless passion for bridging the gap in healthcare access. Through her work with NSWOCC's Indigenous Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Health Core Program, Michelle has advocated for better healthcare policies and helped create the Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Sharing Circle , which provides resources and education for both patients and healthcare providers. Michelle’s leadership, passion for wound care, and commitment to making healthcare more accessible to Indigenous communities are an inspiration to us all. Read the full article on Michelle’s journey here: First Nations Nurse Brings Wound, Ostomy Care to Indigenous Communities

Dorace graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1974 and spent over 35 years with London Health Sciences Centre including roles as Operating Room charge nurse in Vascular Surgery, and as an Educational Consultant at CSTAR (Canadian Surgical Technologies and Advanced Robotics). Dorace joined Perfuse in January of 2013 when the geko™ device was first used on humans in Canada.  These first uses were in cardiac surgery and transplant. Ultimately, the main focus ended up on wound therapy. She feverishly led the development of educational and clinical initiatives that ultimately lead the geko™ device to be recognized as a standard in wound care.  She has been involved in numerous oral and poster presentations, has co-authored many publications, and presented on the geko™ device at local, provincial and national conferences. Dorace has shared her expertise in training hundreds of clinicians in her role as Clinical and Educational consultant at Perfuse Medtec Inc. Dorace is sadly missed by our team, but we are so delighted that she will be able to spend more time with her children, grandchildren and her amazing husband John.

E-Stim involves delivering a controlled electrical current directly to a wound or its surrounding tissues using electrodes, Silverlon dressings, and the Micro Z II stimulator. This therapy enhances the body’s natural healing process by improving local circulation, which helps keep the wound clean, deliver fresh nutrients, and promote the generation of new skin. Clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of E-Stim in promoting wound closure. E-Stim, when used in conjunction with the support of NSWOC nurses, is a preferred therapy under Ontario Health @ Home. Contact Maureen McNiece at McNiece TENS for an in-service, protocols, and studies.  m.mcniece@mcniecetens.ca   1-800-681-8367 519-681-8367 www.mcniecetens.ca

March 31st marks  International Transgender Day of Visibility , a time to celebrate the contributions of transgender individuals and acknowledge the challenges they continue to face. At NSWOCC, we are committed to fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) in wound, ostomy, and continence care. True inclusivity means ensuring that every individual—regardless of gender identity—receives respectful, informed, and equitable healthcare. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive community for all. Let’s continue working together toward a future where  everyone  feels seen, valued, and supported!  In recognition of this day, we are also highlighting Deanna Clatworthy’s workshop at our upcoming National Conference from May 21-25 2025 in Montreal, QC. Learn more and register for this important workshop below! Post-Surgical Care for Gender Diverse Patients and Common Complications of Gender Affirming Surgeries Date & Time Wednesday, May 21st | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Description This insightful session will cover common treatments used for gender dysphoria, their effects, and potential side effects. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of common health issues affecting gender diverse patients, including a thorough review of gender-affirming surgical procedures and the management of post-surgical complications. The workshop aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide inclusive and informed care for gender diverse patients. This workshop aligns with our IDEAs conference theme: Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility shared. It highlights the importance of specialized wound, ostomy, and continence care through an inclusive and diverse lens. Learning Objectives On completion of this workshop, participants will be able to: 1.  Identify medications commonly used for medical transition and the side effects that may occur, and how to support a patient who is experiencing negative side effects. 2.  Discuss common infections and health issues within the gender diverse community and understand how to treat them.  3.  Recognize gender affirming surgical procedures, common complications and how to support patients who are experiencing these complications to avoid wound healing       delays and other negative outcomes.  Meet the presenter: Deanna Clatworthy, MN, BScN, RN, NP(c) Deanna Clatworthy, is a clinical nurse specialist who specializes in HIV, sexual health and gender affirming care. She attended McMaster University where she completed her BScN and her Addiction Counselling diploma. She attended Western University for her Master in Nursing and is currently completing her Nurse Practitioner diploma there. She also recently completed a post-graduate diploma in Infectious Disease. Deanna is passionate about equitable, accessible and holistic healthcare for marginalized communities. Deanna led the development of two gender-affirming care clinics and has provided gender affirming care to over 1000 gender-diverse patients. Deanna attended GRS Montreal to train in post-surgical care and loves to share her niche knowledge and experience. Limited Spaces Available – Register Now! Pre-conference workshops have limited capacity, and spots are filling fast! If you plan to attend pre-conference workshops on Wednesday, May 21st, or post-conference workshops on Sunday, May 25th, ensure you select your workshops during registration. How to Add a Workshop to Your Registration Visit the registration page Click on a ticket category and log in using the email you previously used for registration. On the following screen (see below), select the appropriate tab: "Wed. Workshops 0900-1200" to add a morning workshop. "Wed. Workshops 1300-1700" to add an afternoon workshop. "Sun. Workshops 0830-1200" to add a Sunday workshop. Please only add tickets for workshops you plan to attend to ensure availability for other attendees. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact Troy at tcurtis@nswoc.ca . Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in providing specialized, inclusive care!

As a global healthcare company, Hollister is committed to improving the lives of those who use our products. Our mission centres around providing exceptional products and services to our customers. Jasmine Chan has joined Hollister's Clinical Education Team as a full-time Clinical Support Specialist We are thrilled to introduce Jasmine Chan, who has joined Hollister's Education Team as a full-time Clinical Support Specialist In her new role, Jasmine will manage educational events, provide clinical support to associates and Secure Start/Customer Service Teams, and contribute to the implementation of new clinical programs that set Hollister apart as a valued business partner. Jasmine has begun her studies in the Nurses Specialized in Wound Ostomy and Continence Educational Program. She graduated from McMaster University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and has worked at Southlake Regional Health Centre. Additionally, she taught part-time at Georgian College as a Clinical Instructor. During the pandemic, Jasmine took on the role of Professional Practice Project Lead and Mentor, overseeing 100 externs in their daily tasks and duties. Since joining Hollister in June 2023, she has been dedicated to supporting clinicians and customers through the Secure Start program. Outside of work, Jasmine enjoys hot yoga, hiking, and spending time with friends. She resides in Newmarket with her husband, Ben. Karen Spencer, BN, NSWOC, IIWCC has joined our Clinical Education Team as Clinical Resource Manager Hollister Limited is thrilled to announce that Karen Spencer, BN, NSWOC, IIWCC has joined our Clinical Education Team as Clinical Resource Manager Karen brings over thirty years of dedicated experience in the field of ostomy care. She began her journey in surgical nursing and then earned her Enterostomal Therapy Nursing Certificate from the University of Toronto in 1989. Her extensive clinical background includes acute care and community roles in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she worked with the Manitoba Ostomy Program and St. Boniface Hospital. Additionally, Karen has contributed to the CAET Board in various capacities. In 2004, Karen joined Hollister as a Clinical Resource Manager in Canada. Her career then took her to the United States, where she assumed the role of Director of Global Clinical Education. In this position, Karen has had the privilege of collaborating with nurses worldwide. She has been instrumental in supporting research and developing educational materials and programs for both clinicians and patients, aimed at advancing the ostomy nursing profession and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with an ostomy. Karen's contributions to the field are well-recognized. She has published work on peristomal skin health and convexity and has shared her knowledge through lectures at national and international conferences. We are excited to welcome Karen back to our Canadian team and look forward to the invaluable insights and expertise she will bring to our clinical education initiatives. Karen is excited to reconnect with Canadian NSWOC nurses during her travels and at the upcoming NSWOC Conference. Let's give her a warm welcome back to Canada!

The Government of Canada has announced the theme for Black History Month 2025: "Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations." This annual celebration provides an opportunity to recognize and honour the achievements of Black communities across Canada. For more details, visit   here . As February marks Black History Month, it is a time to celebrate the diversity and accomplishments of Black Canadians while reflecting on Canada's history and the ongoing challenges faced, including systemic barriers and discrimination. NSWOCC acknowledges the pivotal role of Black nurses in shaping Canada's nursing profession, having spotlighted figures like Dr. Carrie M. Best , Bernise Redmon, and Clotilda Adessa Yakimchuk in past years. This year, under the theme of "uplifting future generations," we commit to addressing healthcare inequities. Recognizing the underrepresentation of Black nurses in healthcare and the need for greater study into wound, ostomy, and continence care for Black and dark-skinned individuals, NSWOCC is holding a panel at our upcoming National Conference titled "Addressing Healthcare Inequities in the Care of Black and Brown Skin,” which will be presented by Lori Zozolotto, BScN, RN, NSWOC, Shelly Philip LaForest, MN, BN, RN, CVAA(c), PhD student, and Dania Versailles, MScN, MScMHNP, BScN, RN, CPMHN(C). This aligns with our conference theme "IDEAs: Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, shared," featuring sessions such as "Assessing Pressure Injuries in Different Skin Tones" and "Skin Tears in People with Different Skin Tones." Explore the full program at  NSWOCC Conference 2025 . We are grateful to each panelist and presenter for sharing their knowledge and expertise. We invite you to join us in honouring Black History Month this February. Let's continue this educational journey together this month and as we strive for a more inclusive and equitable healthcare environment.

At Friends of Ostomates Worldwide Canada (FOWC), our mission is simple: to ensure that ostomates in need have access to life-changing supplies, no matter where they live. Through partnerships with medical professionals, community organizations, and volunteers, we collect and distribute donated ostomy supplies to ostomates in countries where access to supplies is very limited. Today, our shipments support ostomates in Kenya, Ukraine, Iran, and beyond, providing dignity and improved quality of life to thousands. As we launch a new year of activities, we want to take a moment to recognize a leadership transition within our organization. After years of dedicated service, Lorne Aronson has stepped down as our Board Chair. Under his leadership, FOWC expanded its reach, strengthened partnerships, and built a solid foundation for the future. We are incredibly grateful for his vision and tireless advocacy for ostomates worldwide. Stepping into the role is Joel Goldenberg, who brings deep commitment and experience to guide FOWC forward. We are excited for the road ahead under his leadership. FOWC’s impact is only possible because of our generous supporters. If you’d like to learn more about our work, visit  our website . We are always eager to accept donations of unused ostomy supplies—if you or someone you know has supplies to contribute, you can find details on how to donate  here . Together, we can continue making a difference for ostomates around the world.

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 the 44th National Conference. 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. Submission Guidelines & Deadlines: Oral Abstracts Deadline:  February 28, 2025 Poster Abstracts Deadline:  March 31, 2025 Submission Link:   Submit an Abstract Abstracts must be in English or French and adhere to the conference guidelines (e.g., abstract body should be under 300 words, single-spaced, and free of author identifiers). Read the full guidelines online at https://www.nswoccconference.com/abstracts Topic Areas: NSWOCC welcomes abstracts on topics related to wound, ostomy, incontinence, or leadership—whether your work is research-based, a case study, practice-oriented, or demonstrates nursing leadership within the NSWOC specialty. 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 44th National Conference. Oral Abstracts Deadline:  February 28, 2025 Poster Abstracts Deadline:  March 31, 2025 Submit Here:   NSWOCC Abstract Submission 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 conference. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your contributions to advancing NSWOC and SWAN practice!

We are excited to announce the addition of a new workshop to the National Conference lineup, titled "Post-Surgical Care for Gender Diverse Patients and Common Complications of Gender Affirming Surgeries". Learn more and register below, before registration fills up! Date & Time Wednesday, May 21st | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Description This insightful session will cover common treatments used for gender dysphoria, their effects, and potential side effects. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of common health issues affecting gender diverse patients, including a thorough review of gender-affirming surgical procedures and the management of post-surgical complications. The workshop aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide inclusive and informed care for gender diverse patients. This workshop aligns with our IDEAs conference theme: Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility shared. It highlights the importance of specialized wound, ostomy, and continence care through an inclusive and diverse lens. Learning Objectives On completion of this workshop, participants will be able to: 1.  Identify medications commonly used for medical transition and the side effects that may occur, and how to support a patient who is experiencing negative side effects. 2.  Discuss common infections and health issues within the gender diverse community and understand how to treat them.  3.  Recognize gender affirming surgical procedures, common complications and how to support patients who are experiencing these complications to avoid wound healing       delays and other negative outcomes.  Meet the presenter: Deanna Clatworthy, MN, BScN, RN, NP(c) Deanna Clatworthy, is a clinical nurse specialist who specializes in HIV, sexual health and gender affirming care. She attended McMaster University where she completed her BScN and her Addiction Counselling diploma. She attended Western University for her Master in Nursing and is currently completing her Nurse Practitioner diploma there. She also recently completed a post-graduate diploma in Infectious Disease. Deanna is passionate about equitable, accessible and holistic healthcare for marginalized communities. Deanna led the development of two gender-affirming care clinics and has provided gender affirming care to over 1000 gender-diverse patients. Deanna attended GRS Montreal to train in post-surgical care and loves to share her niche knowledge and experience. Limited Spaces Available – Register Now! Pre-conference workshops have limited capacity, and spots are filling fast! If you plan to attend pre-conference workshops on Wednesday, May 21st, or post-conference workshops on Sunday, May 25th, ensure you select your workshops during registration. How to Add a Workshop to Your Registration Visit the registration page Click on a ticket category and log in using the email you previously used for registration. On the following screen (see below), select the appropriate tab: "Wed. Workshops 0900-1200" to add a morning workshop. "Wed. Workshops 1300-1700" to add an afternoon workshop. "Sun. Workshops 0830-1200" to add a Sunday workshop. Please only add tickets for workshops you plan to attend to ensure availability for other attendees. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact Troy at tcurtis@nswoc.ca . Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in providing specialized, inclusive care!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience at the NSWOCC National Conference 2025! From May 21-25, 2025, NSWOCs, SWANs, and healthcare professionals from across Canada will gather at the stunning Hotel Bonaventure in Montréal, Québec for a week filled with education, networking, and celebration. This year’s conference theme, “IDEAs: Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility shared” sets the stage for a transformative exploration of specialized wound, ostomy, and continence care. Join experts and peers as we tackle today’s most pressing healthcare challenges and learn innovative strategies to enhance patient care for diverse populations. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to this field, this conference offers something for everyone—an opportunity to grow, connect, and be inspired! Keep reading to get all the key information you need to make the most out of this exciting event.  Registration Information Secure your spot today by visiting the registration link below! If you previously registered for the 2024 National Conference in Calgary, AB, you may be prompted to sign in to the account you created on the Pheedloop App during last year’s registration. ​ NSWOCC Member Rate Full Conference: $435 ($60 savings) Daily Conference: $175/day ​ Non-Member Rate Full Conference: $495 Daily Conference: $190 per day ​ The Full Conference Registration includes complimentary registration to: Posters & Product Innovation Expo on Thursday, May 22, 2025 Disco Nights! Networking Event on Friday, May 23, 2025 Banquet (Carnival theme) & WOC Institute Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, May 24, 2025 Abstract Deadlines NSWOCC invites you to submit an oral or poster abstract in English or French for our National Conference. Gain exposure, add to your CV, and contribute to the advancement of wound, ostomy, and continence care by submitting an abstract before the deadlines below!  Deadlines Oral Abstracts: February 28, 2025 Poster Abstracts: March 31, 2025 View the Preliminary Program Our comprehensive 2025 lineup ensures that attendees leave feeling inspired, informed, and equipped to drive meaningful change in their practice. Check out the preliminary program to learn all about our anticipated workshops, educational sessions, networking activities, and social events at the link below! Take Advantage of Discounted Flights   Flying into Montreal? Take advantage of an exclusive discount with Air Canada!  ​ Discount Details Promotion Code: TY4CC3T1 Travel Period: May 14 – June 1, 2025 Destination: Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)   Savings North America: 5% off Standard fares 10% off Flex fares & higher International Travel: 10% off Standard fares & higher   How to Book Visit www.aircanada.com . Enter the promotion code TY4CC3T1  during booking. Confirm your travel and get ready for an incredible conference experience! Book your Discounted Accommodations  Book your stay today at our conference location - The Hotel Bonaventure Montréal! NSWOCC Members can now take advantage of the group discount rate by booking their hotel rooms in advance. 📍 Hotel Bonaventure🛏️ 🔑 Group Discount Code: CNSWI Overflow hotel booking opens soon! Check out our promotional video in English or French! Thank you to our Honoured Corporate Partners!

To support Truth and Reconciliation and improve wound, ostomy, and continence care for Indigenous communities, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) has partnerned with WoundPedia and Queen’s University to launch the Indigenous ECHO Canada Skin and Wound program. This initiative builds on the success of Ontario’s ECHO Skin and Wound model, using virtual education to train healthcare professionals in Indigenous communities. The program, supported by Indigenous Services Canada, includes eight interactive sessions from February to May 2025, focusing on wound care, vascular assessment, infection management, and more. By fostering inter-professional collaboration and culturally safe education, this program aims to enhance healthcare equity and improve patient outcomes. To learn more about this important initiative, check out the full article linked below!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 7, 2025 Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care Invests in Skin and Wound Care Education for 90 Long-Term Care Registered Practical Nurses through NSWOCC®’s Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN ™ ) Program.   [Ottawa, Ontario]  — Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®)’s Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOC) Institute is proud to announce their partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care in a groundbreaking initiative to enhance wound, ostomy, and continence care expertise in Ontario’s long-term care homes. As part of this initiative, the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care has created the Skin and Wound Professional Growth Fund , providing one-time funding for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This funding supports professional education and training, including backfilling staff who participate in skin and wound care education programs. Hon. Natalie Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care, announced that this investment will make it easier for long-term care homes to access world-class educational programs and improve the quality of care provided to their residents. Empowering Long-Term Care Nurses through the SWAN Program Through this initiative, registration & tuition fees will be covered for 90 nurses  to enrol in the Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN™) Program , offered by NSWOCC®’s WOC Institute. This Canadian Nurses Association (CNA)-accredited program provides advanced knowledge in wound, ostomy, and continence care, preparing nurses to become leaders in their field and champions in their workplaces, ultimately improving patient care and outcomes. SWANs are uniquely recognized for their advanced knowledge and their contributions as wound, ostomy and continence nurse champions in their workplaces and communities across Canada. The five-month SWAN Program  features: 26 online modules covering wound, ostomy, and continence care. A self-directed clinical preceptorship. Ongoing mentorship with CNA-certified NSWOCs. Bi-weekly interactive learning sessions. These 90 participants will be enrolled in a dedicated cohort separate from the WOC Institute’s regular winter 2025 intake, ensuring focused support and mentorship throughout their educational journey. How to Apply Long-term care nurses can apply for this opportunity by completing the application form available at: www.wocinstitute.ca/swan#ltc Deadline:  Applications must be received by 5:00 PM EST on February 15, 2025 . Eligibility:  Applicants must be practical nurses or diploma-educated RNs employed in Ontario long-term care homes. Important Notice: As of January 20, 2025, the program has reached its maximum capacity for the Skin and Wound Professional Growth Fund. Additional applications will be placed on a waitlist. Please ensure your application is complete and includes a letter of support from your employer. Additional Opportunities: Applications for the regular SWAN Program  (Fall 2025 cohort) are also open. The deadline to apply is May 31, 2025 . For more information, visit https://www.wocinstitute.ca/swan-application . About the Skin and Wound Professional Growth Fund The Skin and Wound Professional Growth Fund ensures that education and training dollars directly support staff who provide care for residents in Ontario’s long-term care homes. This dedicated funding is outside of the level-of-care envelopes and is protected to ensure its use for professional growth. Eligible expenses include program registration fees, backfill costs, and other expenses outlined in the Ministry’s funding policy. For further details on this funding, including eligible expenses, please see the following: Minister’s Letter  (PDF) Skin and Wound Professional Growth Fund Funding Policy  (PDF) FAQ  (PDF) If you have any questions for the Ministry, please contact them at  ltc.info@ontario.ca Transforming Care through Education “ We are thrilled to partner with the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care on this important initiative, ” said Kimberly Leblanc, Academic Chair of the WOC Institute. “ By investing in the education and development of long-term care staff, we are advancing specialized nursing care, enhancing the quality of life for residents, and ensuring better patient outcomes across Ontario. ” “ We thank the Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care for taking action to improve wound, ostomy and continence capacity in long-term care across Ontario ” said Catherine Harley, Chief Executive Officer of NSWOCC®. For more information on the SWAN Program, visit: www.wocinstitute.ca/swan About NSWOCC® Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) is a registered charity for over 600 nurses specialized in the nursing care of patients with challenges in wound, ostomy and continence and over 1,100 total Members and Associates. NSWOCC® provides national leadership in wound, ostomy, and continence care, promoting high standards of practice, education, research, and advocacy to achieve quality specialized nursing care. About the WOC Institute The Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) Institute is operated by NSWOCC® to provide accessible, high-quality education programs that equip healthcare professionals with the tools needed to excel in wound, ostomy, and continence care. For media inquiries, please contact: Catherine Harley Chief Executive Officer Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada Phone: 1-888-739-5072 Email: office@nswoc.ca   Website: www.nswoc.ca