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We are happy to share that the Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for the Topical Management of Malignant Cutaneous Wounds developed by Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada in partnership with Canadian Palliative Care Nursing Association (CPCNA) is now available in both English and French!    Malignant cutaneous wounds pose unique challenges in patient care, requiring specialized attention to alleviate local symptoms and enhance the overall quality of life. As the prevalence of these wounds continues to rise with improving cancer survival rates, it becomes imperative to establish comprehensive best practice recommendations for their topical management.     This project aimed to synthesize current evidence, expert insights, and patient-centred perspectives to provide a robust framework for health care professionals (HCPs) caring for individuals with malignant cutaneous wounds.  We encourage all NSWOCC Members to download and share these Canadian best practice recommendations with your colleagues.    We would also like to thank technical writer and project manager John Gregory, IIWCC, ISWA, Opencity Inc., who edited and produced these best practice recommendations in collaboration with a task force of volunteers.    The translation of this document to French could not have been possible without the help of this task force and especially the help of Valérie Chaplain.     Sincerely,    Debra Johnston, MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C)  NSWOCC Core Program Professional Development lead and Malignant Cutaneous Wounds Best Practice Recommendations Project Lead

We are excited to announce a fantastic opportunity for you to join the NSWOCC Membership Core Program as the Newsletter Lead. This volunteer role is a unique chance to contribute to the growth of our community and shape how we communicate with over 1,100 members, including NSWOCs, SWANs, and allied healthcare professionals.  Call for Newsletter Lead  Role Overview: The NSWOCC Membership Core Program is seeking a dedicated volunteer to take on the role of Newsletter Lead. As the Newsletter Lead, your primary responsibilities will include:  Coordinating Content: Helping to solicit and organize content submissions for each section of the newsletter.  Idea Generation : Contributing ideas to enhance and improve the newsletter’s content and structure.  Editing and Writing: Editing content with support from the NSWOCC Director of Operations and the Membership Core Program Leader. If you are bilingual, you may also draft copy in both English and French for certain sections, such as clinical tips or interviews.  Collaboration: Working with the NSWOCC Director of Operations & Executive Assistant to develop newsletter sections, which could include clinical pearls, program updates, and member highlights.  Meetings: Participating in monthly Membership Core Program meetings (except July, August, and December) to contribute to overall core program initiatives.  Member Recognition: Managing form submissions to highlight the achievements of NSWOCs and SWANs.  Interviews: Assisting with video or written interviews of NSWOCC Members and leaders.  Ideal Candidate: We are looking for someone with a keen interest in wound, ostomy, and continence education, a passion for building a community of dedicated nurses, and a desire to give back to NSWOCC. The ideal candidate should also have a positive attitude and strong written communication skills.  Priority will be given to bilingual candidates (English and French). Experience with email marketing tools like Mailchimp or design tools like Adobe InDesign is an asset but not required. NSWOCC will provide support for the technical aspects of building the newsletter.  Time commitment:    Approximately 2 hours per month.  Up to 5 hours per month during newsletter publication months (February, April, September, and November).  How to Apply If you’re interested in becoming the Newsletter Lead, please email Shelly Barnes, Membership Core Program Leader, at sbarnes@wocinstitute.ca . Include a brief description of why you're interested in the role, along with any relevant experience, skills, or interests that make you a great fit for the position.  About the Newsletter NSWOCC distributes an e-newsletter called "The Integrity / L’Intègre" to over 1,100 members, including NSWOCs, SWANs, and allied healthcare professionals, four times a year (February, April, September, and November). The newsletter aims to keep members informed about relevant news in the fields of wound, ostomy, and continence care and to build a strong community of practice.  Newsletter Sections:  Introduction  Recognizing NSWOCs and SWANs  Self-Care Corner  Clinical Pearl  Core Program Corner  NSWOCC Association News  WOC Institute Program News  Upcoming Events  Industry News  About the Membership Core Program The Membership Core Program is one of NSWOCC’s newest initiatives, bringing together NSWOCs and SWANs to discuss membership benefits and experiences, and to drive positive change within the association.  Key Priorities:  Continuing Education:  Advance NSWOC knowledge and proficiency.  Support the National Office and other Core Programs in offering continuing education opportunities.  Communication & Awareness:  Increase direct communication from the Board of Directors to members.  Provide updates on association and Core Program activities and initiatives. Networking and Collaboration:  Meet the networking and collaboration needs of NSWOCC members across Canada.  Mentorship:  Accommodate members from all time zones.  We look forward to welcoming a new member to our team and continuing to build a strong, engaged community within NSWOCC.

On October 2, 2024, we commemorated World Ostomy Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness, challenging stigmas, and celebrating the resilience of people living with ostomies. This year, the observance was made even more special as the Hon. Wanda Thomas Bernard, a Senator from Nova Scotia, delivered a poignant speech in the Senate of Canada, shining a national spotlight on the importance of ostomy care and the invaluable work of the Ostomy Canada Society. Honouring People Living With an Ostomy Across Canada In her Senate address on October 3, Senator Bernard paid tribute to the approximately 150,000 Canadians living with ostomies, highlighting their courage and determination in facing the unique challenges that come with this life-saving procedure. Despite the fact that an ostomy is a crucial intervention, it often remains shrouded in silence due to the lingering stigma. Senator Bernard’s powerful words served to break through that silence, encouraging greater public understanding and compassion.   Senator Bernard shared a deeply personal connection to the ostomy community. Her husband, George, has lived with an ostomy for 17 years, a life transition that was made easier through the support and guidance of Ostomy Halifax, a local Chapter of Ostomy Canada Society. Ostomy Halifax has been offering education, awareness, and community support for over 50 years, helping people living with an ostomy like George live life to the fullest. Senator Bernard’s story emphasized the transformative role that organizations like Ostomy Canada Society play in empowering individuals through community, education, and advocacy.   Step Up for Ostomy: Breaking Stigmas Nationwide In line with this year’s theme, "Living Life to the Fullest," Ostomy Canada Society celebrated World Ostomy Day with its annual awareness event, Step Up for Ostomy . This initiative encourages Canadians to engage in activities that honour the strength and resilience of those living with ostomies. Senator Bernard, boldly and proudly stepping up in the Senate to raise awareness, exemplified the spirit of the day and underscored the ongoing need to break down the barriers and stigmas surrounding ostomy care. NSWOCC is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of Step Up for Ostomy.   You can still donate to the Step Up for Ostomy campaign online at https://stepupforostomy.ca/ .   The Power of Partnerships: Ostomy Canada Society and NSWOCC Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is proud to partner with Ostomy Canada Society in advocating for better ostomy care, furthering education, and expanding awareness across the country. As a registered charity representing over 600 specialized nurses dealing with wound, ostomy and continence care, NSWOCC plays a vital role in advancing education, research, and advocacy related to wound, ostomy, and continence care. Through our partnership with Ostomy Canada Society, we work collaboratively to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for people living with an ostomy.   One of the key areas of collaboration is our Ostomy Canada Society and NSWOCC Joint Advocacy Committee projects, which focus on expanding access to resources and funding such as the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), which is a non-refundable tax credit used to reduce the amount of tax payable the income for people living with ostomies. Individuals with a permanent ostomy or a temporary one lasting at least 12 months may qualify for this credit, which helps offset ostomy-related expenses. Together, NSWOCC and Ostomy Canada Society work to ensure that more Canadians are aware of and can benefit from such programs.   Additionally, NSWOCC and Ostomy Canada Society frequently join forces for advocacy summits, aimed at sharing best practices, improving patient experience, and increasing access to—and capacity for—high quality wound, ostomy and continence care in each Province and Territory. Recent advocacy summits in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Alberta, and Ontario have brought together healthcare professionals and policymakers to address these crucial issues, with more summits planned for the future. You can learn more about these summits online and access the meeting proceedings:   1.     Nova Scotia Summit: https://www.nswoc.ca/ns-summit 2.     New Brunswick Summit: https://www.nswoc.ca/nb-summit 3.     Alberta Summit: https://www.nswoc.ca/ab-summit 4.     Ontario Summit: https://www.nswoc.ca/ontario-summit   Continuing the Mission NSWOCC is committed to continuing our advocacy work alongside Ostomy Canada Society, and we invite everyone to join us in supporting this vital cause. We are jointly focused on influencing legislative policies and governmental support that affect wound, ostomy, and continence care, aiming to improve outcomes for patients nationwide.   This World Ostomy Day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to thank those living with an ostomy in their lives, the healthcare professionals who support them, and organizations like Ostomy Canada Society, which works tirelessly to uplift this community. Together, we can create an environment of understanding, reduce stigma, and celebrate the strength of those living with an ostomy.   For more information on how you can get involved with Ostomy Canada Society, please visit their website . You can also watch the full video of Senator Bernard’s inspiring speech here .   Support Ostomy Canada Society If you’d like to contribute to the efforts of Ostomy Canada Society, donations can be made to support initiatives such as: Advocacy for the Disability Tax Credit and ostomy reimbursement programs The national Visitors Program Awareness events like Step Up for Ostomy The Youth Camp for young people living with an ostomy Educational awards and scholarships And many more.   Learn more about how to donate and the impact your contribution can make by visiting the Ostomy Canada Society Donation Page , or contribute to their Step Up for Ostomy campaign at https://stepupforostomy.ca/ .   Together, we can ensure that everyone living with an ostomy has the support and resources they need to live life to the fullest.

We are thrilled to share some exciting news from NSWOCs from our community! A new paper has just been published, shedding light on the complex and challenging condition of peripheral artery disease, with a special focus on chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) and the associated pain management in elderly patients. The paper, titled "Management of Pain in People Living With Chronic Limb Threatening Ischemia: An Umbrella Review", delves into the multifaceted nature of peripheral artery disease and the chronic ischemic pain that often accompanies CLTI. The authors highlight the urgent need for accessible, effective, and safe strategies to manage this debilitating condition and present a rigorous review of existing literature to inform best practices for interdisciplinary care. Abstract: Peripheral artery disease is a complex health condition. It is associated with atherosclerotic occlusive lesions in the arteries limiting normal blood flow, mostly involving the lower extremities, leading to chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Chronic unrelenting ischemic leg pain can be debilitating and distressing, contributing to poor health-related quality of life. Comprehensive management of pain associated with CLTI requires multimodal approaches that draw on a range of strategies and specialist treatments delivered by an interdisciplinary team across various health care settings. We recognized a significant gap in evidence-based strategies that are accessible, appropriate, acceptable, effective, and safe for the elderly with CLTI- associated pain. We therefore conducted an umbrella review or overview of multiple existing reviews that employ a rigorous and transparent method to comprehensively identify and synthesize relevant literature including systematic, scoping, and narrative reviews. The purpose of this umbrella review was to aggregate and compare various management options to inform best practices and quality indicators for the management of ischemic pain in older patients with peripheral artery disease. Authors: Kevin Woo, PhD, RN, NSWOC(C), WOCC(C), Queen’s University, University Health Network, Kingston, Ontario. Christine Murphy, PhD, RN, NSWOC(C), WOCC(C), The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario. Emily Gregg, MSc, RN, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario. Joshua Moralejo, MScCH, RN, NSWOC(C), WOCC(C), University Health Network, Kingston, Ontario. Kimberly LeBlanc, PhD, RN, NSWOC(C), WOCC(C), Wound, Ostomy and Continence Institute, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC), Ottawa, Ontario. Tim Brandys, MD, MEd, FRCSC, FACS, The Ottawa Hospital,Ottawa, Ontario. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the authors on this important contribution to the field and encourage all of you to check out this insightful and valuable work. Download the paper below!

Wound, ostomy, and continence education will reach new heights through an innovative global congress coming to Canada, focusing on improving care in these fields. The World Council of Enterostomal Therapists® (WCET®) and Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC®) are pleased to announce a partnership to bring the joint WCET® - NSWOCC® Congress, scheduled for April 24-28, 2026, to beautiful Vancouver, Canada. The congress will take place at the Vancouver Convention Center. This joint WCET® - NSWOCC® Congress offers a unique opportunity for nurses and industry partners from across the globe to come together, learn from one another, and engage with WCET®, NSWOCC®, and their partners. The theme of the congress is “In It Together: Moving Mountains to Create a World of Better Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care.” “We are excited to partner with NSWOCC® to bring our global nurses together to share best practices through education and research. NSWOCC® is aligned with our vision to achieve this,” said WCET® President Laurent Chabal. NSWOCC® CEO Cathy Harley added, “We are thrilled to join forces with WCET® to develop an innovative congress that will provide a unique educational experience for both Canadian nurses and nurses around the world who provide care for wound, ostomy and continence patients.” This exciting partnership was announced at the recent WCET® - ASCN Joint Congress in Glasgow, Scotland, where Canadian NSWOCC® Members were present to celebrate the good news. For further information on this joint WCET® - NSWOCC® Congress, please email office@nswoc.ca . More about WCET® The World Council of Enterostomal Therapists® (WCET®) was inaugurated in 1978 in response to advances in nursing, medicine and surgery. This ultimately led to the creation of a new nursing specialty called Enterostomal Therapy Nursing (ETN). This specialty has evolved over the past 46 years to become a major component in the management of ostomy, wound and continence care. The WCET® provides an international forum for Enterostomal Therapy Nurses and a global vehicle for discussion, education, communication, research, advice and support in the field of Enterostomal Therapy Nursing. The WCET® is focused on leading the global advancement of specialized professional ostomy, wound and continence nursing care, with the aim of ensuring that individuals living with stomas, wounds, and/or continence needs can refer to a nurse/healthcare professional with specialised up to date knowledge and skills, and that nurses worldwide have access to specialised education in our tri specialty. The WCET® is proud to be a supporter and instigator of Enterostomal Therapy Nursing globally and will continue to support both developed and emerging countries. The WCET® is a UK registered Charity and non-profitable organisation, with a membership spanning more than 69 countries at present. They publish a quarterly scientific peer reviewed Journal professionally translated into four languages other than English (Chinese, French, Portuguese and Spanish), and produce many other educational resources. For further information: https://wcetn.org More about NSWOCC® For forty-four years, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada® (NSWOCC®) has been 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® acts in the public interest for Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs) to give national leadership in wound, ostomy and continence promoting high standards for NSWOC practice, education, research and administration to achieve quality specialized nursing care. NSWOCC® speaks for NSWOCs and gives them a strong national association through which they can support each other and speak with a powerful, unified voice. NSWOCC® is working towards taking an active role in legislative policy which could influence the health care decisions that affect NSWOC professionals every day. For further information: https://www.nswoc.ca/about

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is honoured to have attended the Association of Stoma Care Nurses (ASCN UK) - World Council of Enterostomal Therapists (WCET ® ) Joint Congress in Glasgow, Scotland, held from September 28 to October 1, 2024, at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC). Hosted in c ollaboration with ASCN UK, the congress centred around the theme: “Weaving Culture & Expertise to Offer the Best Patient Care.” The event provided a unique opportunity for healthcare professionals to explore innovative approaches to stoma, wound, and continence management, helping to further enhance patient care. It also enabled attendees to connect with some of the most influential global leaders advancing practice in these fields. On Saturday, September 28, 2024, Kim LeBlanc, WOC Institute Academic Chair, and Cathy Harley, NSWOCC Chief Executive Officer, actively participated in the WCET® Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Education Programs, chaired by Julie Weng from China. Kim and Cathy also held valuable discussions with directors of wound, ostomy, and continence programs from around the world. “It was an honour to represent Canadian nurses specialized in wound, ostomy, and continence care at such a prestigious event,” Cathy Harley shared. NSWOCC’s presence at the event was further highlighted by Carly Lindsay, RN, BNSc, MClSc-WH, NSWOC, WOCC(C), an NSWOC from Kingston Health Sciences Centre in Kingston, Ontario, who proudly carried the Canadian flag during the WCET® parade of nations, officially opening the congress. Carly Lindsay was the International Canadian delegate at the Congress. Canadian representation also included NSWOCs Louise Samuel, RN, BScN, ETN, Rosemary Hill, RN, BSN, CWOCN, WOCC(C), Lauren Wolfe, RN, BSN, MClSc-WH, NSWOC, CWOCN, Eleanore Howard, RN, BEd, BN, MSN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), Anna Tumchewics, RN, BScN, DipOPN, ET, and Candace Gubbels, MN, NP(F), NSWOC, WOCC(C). They were accompanied b y Dr. R. Gary Sibbald, MD., M.Ed., D.SC (Hon), FRCPC (Med)(Derm), FAAD, MAPWCA, JM and John Gregory, ISWA, President of Opencity Inc. pictured together with the Canadian flag in the gallery below. In the gallery below, you can see some great snapshots of the event, including a memorable moment featuring Louise Samuel and Carly Lindsay alongside Australian stoma nurses Christine Blake and Brenda Christiansen. Be sure to check out the inspiring images of our Canadian delegation at the ASCN - WCET® Joint Congress! In addition, we were thrilled to be able to officially announce at the close of the congress that WCET will be hosting the next biennial congress jointly with NSWOCC at the Vancouver Convention Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia from April 24-28, 2026. For further information on this joint WCET ® - NSWOCC ® Congress, please e-mail office@nswoc.ca .

On Monday, November 18, 2024 from 8AM to 4PM ET, we invite you to attend the “A Nation Under Pressure” Canadian Pressure Injury Summit! Join provincial and federal leaders, healthcare administrators, and interprofessional experts to improve pressure injury (PI) prevention and management across Canada. Attendees will attend presentations & engage incrucial conversations identifying gaps in national PI care and will discuss solutions in alignment with the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP) Strategic Plan. CPIAP is the Pan-Canadian Interprofessional Approach to Address the Prevention and Management of Pressure Injuries. CPIAP is an Official Interest Group of NSWOCC. Both in-person & live streamed online, this event will provide a unique platform to learn, provide input, and collaborate for impactful change. This Summit, held in partnership with the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP) , University Health Network (UHN) and Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) , aligns with Worldwide Pressure Injury Prevention Day, which takes place November 21, 2024,  aimed at raising awareness about pressure injury prevention through crucial conversations. By attending, you'll contribute to a nationwide effort to improve patient outcomes and shape the future of pressure injury prevention and management. We believe that you can make a significant contribution to the discussion around PI prevention and management in every province and territory across Canada. Your expertise, role and perspective will be invaluable in this discussion. Please save the date and plan to join the nationwide effort to improve patient outcomes and shape the future of PI prevention and management. Program

On September 30, we pause to reflect on the painful legacy of Canada’s residential school system as we observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This solemn day honours the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, their families, and the communities that have been deeply affected. It is a time to remember, to learn, and to commit to reconciliation. This day also coincides with Orange Shirt Day , an Indigenous-led grassroots movement that symbolizes the loss of culture and freedom that Indigenous children endured over generations. The orange shirt represents the stripping away of Indigenous identity and the deep impact of colonialism on Indigenous families and communities. The message behind Orange Shirt Day is clear: “Every Child Matters.” As healthcare professionals and Canadians, we carry the responsibility of not only recognizing this day but also taking action to support reconciliation. Awareness is the first step, but it must be followed by meaningful engagement and learning. In addition to wearing an orange shirt on this important day, we also encourage all NSWOCC members to deepen their understanding of Indigenous histories and perspectives by enrolling in the free online Indigenous Canada Course offered by the University of Alberta. Indigenous Canada is a 12-lesson Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) from the  Faculty of Native Studies  that explores the different histories and contemporary perspectives of Indigenous peoples living in Canada. It is an opportunity to enhance knowledge and contribute to reconciliation through education. For those wishing to receive a certificate upon completion, these are also available for purchase. This September 30 and beyond, let us honour the voices of Indigenous communities and ensure that their stories are not forgotten.

I’m pleased to announce the arrival of Gladiator Therapeutics in Canada. They have developed wearable devices that harness the power of far infrared technology. Their products can reduce inflammation, increase circulation, prevent tissue necrosis, stimulate healing via stem cell signalling, increase mitochondrial function and improve tissue oxygenation. Furthermore, this technology can be worn 24/7, does not interact with medications, requires no direct or battery power as it is activated by body heat and does not have an end of life. I would encourage you to review the research article https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/11/9/878 which references accelerated wound healing using this technology. I would welcome any inquiries regarding this novel technology and can be reached through the contact information below. Dr Joseph Lawrence Gladiator Therapeutics Canada gladiatorfir@gmail.com

The long-term care (LTC) system in Ontario is facing a perfect storm. With an aging population, increasing chronic disease rates, and critical infrastructure challenges, the need for reform and innovation in LTC has never been greater. According to a recent report by the Ontario Long Term Care Home Association (OLTCA) , more than 40,000 seniors are currently on waitlists for LTC beds, and the strain on the system is only set to worsen as the population ages. In response to these challenges, specialized nurses like Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOCs) emerge as critical players in addressing the gaps and inefficiencies in Ontario’s LTC sector. The State of Long-Term Care in Ontario Ontario’s long-term care system has been struggling to keep up with the growing demand for services. The OLTCA recently shared a report that highlights several pressing issues: Aging Infrastructure : Around 40% of Ontario's LTC homes are over 40 years old, and the outdated facilities are ill-equipped to meet modern care standards. Understaffing : LTC homes are grappling with insufficient staffing, which leads to increased burnout among healthcare workers and affects the quality of care provided to residents. Waitlists and Bed Shortages : With 40,000 seniors waiting for placement, Ontario's LTC homes are struggling to meet the demand for beds. This often results in seniors staying in hospitals longer than necessary, exacerbating hospital capacity issues and healthcare costs. As Ontario’s population continues to age, the need for a solution becomes even more urgent. One in four Canadians will be elderly by 2036 , and 1 in 13 Ontarians will be over the age of 80 by 2040 , further amplifying the demand for LTC services. The NSWOC Power of 3 Campaign: A Solution for LTC Challenges The NSWOC Power of 3  campaign highlights how Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOCs) can address some of the critical challenges facing the long-term care systems in Ontario, and more broadly across Canada. NSWOCs are registered nurses with advanced training in three key areas: wound, ostomy, and continence care. By leveraging their specialized skills, NSWOCs are uniquely positioned to enhance care quality, reduce complications, and alleviate financial pressures on the healthcare system. Wound Care Expertise: Chronic wounds, pressure injuries, and skin tears are common problems in LTC settings, particularly among elderly residents with limited mobility or cognitive impairments. NSWOCs are equipped with the knowledge and skills to design and implement evidence-based wound care plans that speed healing and prevent further complications. By using advanced products and strategies, NSWOCs can help reduce hospital readmissions due to wound-related complications, which in turn alleviates pressure on hospitals and long-term care facilities alike. Ostomy and Continence Management: Continence and ostomy challenges are prevalent in long-term care, particularly among residents with dementia or other cognitive conditions. NSWOCs play a crucial role in preventing issues like skin breakdown caused by incontinence or improper ostomy care. Through their specialized expertise, NSWOCs ensure that residents receive the most appropriate and cost-effective products, minimizing discomfort and reducing the risk of infections or other complications. This is essential for maintaining residents’ quality of life and preventing avoidable hospitalizations. Addressing Ontario’s Long-Term Care Crisis The NSWOC Power of 3 campaign aligns with OLTCA’s mission to improve long-term care by addressing two key areas of concern: the quality of care provided to residents and the efficiency of the healthcare system as a whole. Cost-Efficient, Evidence-Based Care NSWOCs contribute to cost savings by reducing the likelihood of complications that often lead to hospital transfers. They also play a pivotal role in educating staff and residents’ families on best practices, which leads to more consistent, high-quality care. Given that healthcare spending in Canada exceeds $250 billion annually, with over 35% of provincial/territorial budgets dedicated to healthcare (CIHI, 2018), employing NSWOCs in LTC settings can help control costs while improving the quality of care. Specialized Care for Complex Needs As Ontario’s elderly population grows, LTC facilities face increasingly complex care needs. Older residents are more prone to conditions such as pressure injuries, skin tears, and continence issues, which require a high level of expertise to manage effectively. NSWOCs offer this expertise through their tri-specialization, providing not only direct patient care but also serving as leaders on interdisciplinary healthcare teams. By promoting evidence-informed practices and guiding treatment protocols, NSWOCs help ensure that LTC residents receive the specialized care they need to thrive. Leadership and Research Contributions NSWOCs are not just care providers—they are leaders and researchers who help shape the future of wound, ostomy, and continence care. They contribute to the development of best practices, inform healthcare policies, and conduct research that improves the quality of care provided to patients across the continuum. In Ontario’s LTC homes, where resources are often stretched thin, NSWOCs play a critical role in bridging the gap between clinical practice and the latest advancements in care. Conclusion: A Sustainable Path Forward Ontario’s long-term care system is at a crossroads. With rising demand, aging infrastructure, and persistent staffing challenges, LTC homes need innovative solutions to provide high-quality, cost-efficient care. NSWOCs, through their specialized expertise, offer a practical way to address the unique needs of LTC residents while also easing the financial burden on the broader healthcare system. By integrating more NSWOCs into long-term care settings, Ontario can take meaningful steps toward improving the quality of care for its aging population, reducing healthcare costs, and ensuring a sustainable future for LTC facilities across the province. The NSWOC Power of 3 campaign shines a light on the vital role these specialized nurses play in helping Ontario navigate the complex challenges of long-term care and the broader healthcare landscape. Sources Statistics Canada (1971-2021), Ontario Ministry of Finance Projections. Preyra Solutions Group (PSG), Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA), and Ontario Ministry of Finance Projections. Ontario Caregiver Organization, Spotlight Report 2023 ; Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), Your Health System, Caregiver Distress , 2023. Ontario Caregiver Organization, Spotlight Report 2023 . Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), Your Health System, New Long-Term Care Residents Who Potentially Could Have Been Cared for at Home . Intellihealth, CCRS main and assessment package 2022/23 data. Data retrieved December 2023. Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care, Inspector’s Quality Solution (IQS) Database, January 2024. Ontario Ministry of Long-Term Care, Client Profile Database (CPRO), July 2024. Ontario Long-Term Care Staffing Study, July 30, 2020. Ontario Health, Wait Times for Long-Term Care . Statistics Canada, Job Vacancies, Payroll Employees, and Job Vacancy Rate by Industry Sector, Monthly, Adjusted for Seasonality , Table 14-10-0406-01, Release Date January 25, 2024. Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA), internal analysis, Fall 2022. Preyra Solutions Group (PSG). Abacus Data, Survey of 1,000 Ontarians Aged 68-76 , May 2023. Ontario Long Term Care Association (OLTCA), The Data , https://www.oltca.com/about-long-term-care/the-data/ . Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC), Power of 3 Campaign , https://www.nswoc.ca/powerof3 .

Join NSWOCC in celebrating SWAN™ Week 2024 next week on September 16-20, 2024! We will have a full week of programming, including a introductory kickoff call to celebrate SWANs, multiple webinars, and even journal club! Read more below to register in advance.  The theme of SWAN™ Week 2024 is:   “SWANs Beyond the Bedside: Supporting the transformation of care delivery” SWANs go beyond direct patient care by advocating for individuals, helping them navigate the health care system, and ensuring their voices are heard in care planning and decision-making. With their specialized education, SWANs offer more than just care—they uphold and share best practices that improve patient outcomes and enhance the overall efficiency of the health care system. SWANs help support quality improvement initiatives, using their specialized training to identify gaps in care, while implementing & sharing best practices in wound, ostomy and continence care. SWANs work with NSWOCs to disseminate knowledge related to wound, ostomy and continence care & practice to others while participating in the professional development of SWAN colleagues through peer mentorship. SWANs, in collaboration with NSWOCs, use their specialized skills to support the transformation of wound, ostomy, and continence care, leading to better patient outcomes and a more sustainable health care system for all Canadians.   To celebrate, we encourage you to download, print, and share the SWAN Week Flyer, and share messages on social media using the assets below. Download the social media images Celebrate with us this week! SWAN Week Celebration Call Monday, September 16 7pm ET/4pm PT SWAN Community of Practice Meeting & Info Night Tuesday, September 17 7:30pm ET/4:30pm PT Webinar: “Integrating Silver Dressings into the Antimicrobial Toolkit & Tips for Biofilm Eradication” Wednesday, September 18 7pm ET/4pm PT Journal Club: “3D-Printing Applications in Ostomy Device Creation and Complex Intestinal Fistula Management” Wednesday, September 18 8pm ET/5pm PT Webinar: “SWANs in Action: Case Studies & Collaboration Across Canada” Thursday, September 19 7pm ET/4pm PT Learn more about the SWAN™ Role SWAN™s will have an enhanced ability to provide optimal care for individuals with wound, ostomy, and continence issues as members of a collaborative Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC) team. The program is designed to provide nurses the ability to become nurse leaders and provide optimal wound, ostomy, and continence care under the direction of the NSWOC, Clinical Nurse Specialist (Wound, Ostomy or Continence).

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 submitting a record of continuous learning hours or rewriting the exam. 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 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 2024. 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. 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 e ligible 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 . 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. [NEW!] Track Your Learning with NSWOCC: To keep track of your CL hours effortlessly, use our brand new tracking form, 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.