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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

NSWOCC is initiating a project in developing a document addressing wound packing, tunnel and sinus management in wounds. NSWOCs with 15 plus years of wound care experience are to participate in this project. Evidence informed management of wound packing, tunnel and sinus care is older than 5 years and based on the wound principle of filling dead space and preventing abscess. There is some recent literature on not packing abscesses that have an opening of less than 5 cm. The purpose of the project is to develop a document, tool or consensus statement incorporating key assessment, management and documentation parameters for tunnel and sinus management. Project Details Participation is voluntary and commitment would be meeting monthly, reviewing the literature, discussion of expert practice, determining type of document(s) and the development of document that would assist wound care clinicians in practice on up-to-date tunnel/sinus management. Member Criteria 15 NSWOCs from across Canada with 15 plus years of clinical experience in wound management. Practice in one of the following clinical settings: Long term care Home Care Complex continuing Care Acute Care Leaders: Mary Hill, MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C)Clinical Lead for wound, ostomy, and continence in Integrated Home Care, Calgary AB Dr Kevin Woo, PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FAPWCA, from UHN in Toronto, Ontario Please reply to NSWOCC office at office@nswoc.ca  if you are interested in participating in this project. Sincerely, Mary Hill, MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Dr. Kevin Woo, PhD, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FAPWCA

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy & Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Board of Directors has the following NSWOCC Executive Board and Officer positions open: Treasurer Term: 2 years, commencing May 22, 2025. Treasurer has the opportunity to run for an additional 2 years. Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy & Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Board of Directors has the following elected Director positions open: SWAN Director Regional Director – British Columbia & Yukon Regional Director – Prairies, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut Term: 2 years, commencing May 22, 2025, with opportunity to run for an additional 2 years. NOMINATIONS DEADLINE: JANUARY 10, 2025 Qualifications: Must be a Member of the NSWOCC for a minimum of two (2) years as a member in good standing; Must be a Registered Nurse who has successfully completed a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Education Program that is recognized by WCET OR a non-registered nurse who completed a recognized Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Education Program prior to 1976; except the Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Director, who shall be a Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Associate of the Association; Not an employee or representative of a company whose primary business involves the development, manufacture and sole distribution of products in the field of wound, ostomy, and/or continence care; and The individual cannot be a contractor of the NSWOCC. Nominations for these Board positions will be accepted by the Nominations Chair, via the NSWOCC Head Office, at office@nswoc.ca . For further information regarding these open positions please contact the NSWOCC Chief Executive Officer Catherine Harley at office@nswoc.ca . IMPORTANT FILES Submission Deadline for each file: January 10th, 2025

In collaboration with the Canadian Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (CPIAP) , an Official Interest Group of NSWOCC, we hosted 300 healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public both in-person and online at the Canadian Pressure Injury Summit : “A Nation Under Pressure” , on November 18, 2024. This free event brought together federal and provincial decision-makers, healthcare leaders, and interdisciplinary experts to discuss actionable solutions for Canada’s growing pressure injury concerns. Attendees had dedicated time to network with fellow healthcare professionals, industry experts, and representatives from government and administration during the scheduled breaks. This summit aligned with Worldwide Pressure Injury Prevention Day on November 21, 2024, aimed at raising awareness about pressure injury prevention and educating the public. By participating, attendees contribute to a nationwide effort to improve patient outcomes and shape the future of pressure injury prevention and management. Join the nationwide effort to improve patient outcomes and shape the future of pressure injury prevention & management. We invite you to read and share the meeting proceedings with your colleagues as we work together on improving Pressure Injury prevention and management across Canada. For more information, visit https://cpiap.com/summit

EdemaWear is now listed by Ontario Health atHome, meaning patients across Ontario have widespread access to EdemaWear for compression. Ontario Health atHome Code Size Maximum limb circumference Use Length Stripe colour Product code PS4525 Small 45 cm (18”) Foot to knee or wrist to shoulder 55 cm (22”) Navy stripe CA0600001 PS4526 Medium 75 cm (30”) Foot to groin or wrist to shoulder 86 cm (34”) Yellow stripe CA0960001 PS4527 Large 115 cm (46”) Knee to groin 60 cm (24”) Red stripe CA120L001 PS4528 X Large 150 cm (60”) Knee to groin 60 cm (24”) Aqua stripe CA160XL01 Choosing the correct stockinet size is the most important factor in determining the effectiveness and comfort of EdemaWear. The vast majority of patients use small (PS4525) or medium (PS4526). Ontario Health atHome codes and product descriptions are presented in the table. There are several clinical resources to help guide evidence-informed practice. Renowned Canadian wound care experts Dr. Gary Sibbald and Pat Coutts led the webinar on low compression  following the publication of the study in Advances in Skin & Wound Care on the  Evaluation of Longitudinal and Tubular Compression Treatment for Lower Limb Edema .  The British Columbia Provincial Nursing Skin and Wound Committee has updated the Lower Limb Compression Application product information sheet for EdemaWear. The September 2024 update is available on the Connecting Learners With Knowledge (CLWK) website.   A poster by Rosemary Hill from Lions Gate Hospital in BC discusses a case series demonstrating a reduction in edema in patients using a fuzzy-wale longitudinal compression stockinette. The wider availability of EdemaWear through Ontario Health atHome and the newly revised product information sheet created by the British Columbia Provincial Professional Practice Stream in September 2024 will help ensure patients across Canada can have access to compression where appropriate after assessment of lower limb vascular supply. EdemaWear is brought to you in Canada by Quart Medical. Reference: Sibbald, R. G., Elliott, J. & Coutts, P., & Persaud-Jaimangal, R. (2020). Evaluation of Longitudinal and Tubular Compression Treatment for Lower Limb Edema. Advances in Skin & Wound Care. 33 . 643-649. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.ASW.0000720264.41419.38

MATRX Seating Line offers  skin protection and positioning cushions for wheelchair users. Cushions in the skin protection category  are designed in a special way, to reduce the incidence of pressure injuries, and demonstrated to be effective through research. MATRX individually molded foam, foam/polymer, and foam/fluid cushions provide superior postural control, functional outcomes, and excellent pressure distribution. Join the webinar  Skin Protection and Positioning with MATRX Wheelchair Cushions   on January 23, 2025 12:00 – 13:00 (EST) to learn about Matrx Wheelchair Seating.    This session will present wheelchair seating concepts important for client safety.  Design of MATRX wheelchair seating will be explored through the links with pressure injury prevention and treatment goals. Case studies will demonstrate examples of collaboration of wound care nurses and rehabilitation professionals that helped heal the wounds. This session is aimed to improve the participants’ understanding of wheelchair seating and strengthen teamwork between the nurses and specialists involved in wheelchair prescriptions.

We are thrilled to announce that the 2024-2025 Mid-Year Report is now available for your review. This report reflects the remarkable progress and achievements of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) over the past year. Our goal is to be transparent with our Members about the work being done by NSWOCC to advance the nursing tri-specialty of wound, ostomy, and continence and beyond. You will see that NSWOCC has had many accomplishments since we last met in-person during our Annual Members Meeting in May 2024. All of you have played a part in the work of NSWOCC—no matter how large or small. Without you, none of these accomplishments would be possible. Looking Ahead : The NSWOCC Board, Core Program leaders, and key staff are continuing to implement the 2024-2027 strategic plan, aiming to sustain a vibrant and growing association. Your continued support is invaluable as we shape the future of NSWOCC together. We also look forward to seeing you at our 44th National Conference at the Hotel Bonaventure in Montréal, QC from May 21-25, 2025. Access the detailed Mid-Year Report on the NSWOCC website or by clicking above. Your feedback is always welcome at office@nswoc.ca . Thank you for being an integral part of our national network! With best regards, Catherine Harley Chief Executive Officer Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada

We’re excited to celebrate a significant milestone for the wound care community! A new set of best practice recommendations has been published in the Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing (JWOCN) addressing the intricate challenges of managing malignant cutaneous wounds. These wounds, often associated with cancer diagnoses, demand expert care to alleviate symptoms and improve patients' quality of life. The publication, titled “ Executive Summary: Topical Management of Malignant Cutaneous Wounds - Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Health Care Professionals Developed by Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (in collaboration with the Canadian Palliative Care Nursing Association), ”   represents the collaboration of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) and the Canadian Palliative Care Nursing Association. Authored by a distinguished group of Canadian experts, this comprehensive guide offers 23 evidence-informed recommendations tailored to health care professionals, interdisciplinary teams, and support systems. Abstract: Malignant cutaneous wounds pose unique challenges in patient care, requiring specialized attention to alleviate local symptoms and enhance health-related quality of life. As the prevalence of these wounds continues to rise with improving cancer survival rates, it is essential to establish comprehensive best practice recommendations for their topical management. To address this need, a task force was assembled from across Canada, consisting of members from Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada and the Canadian Palliative Care Nursing Association. The purpose of these recommendations is to provide a framework for the topical management of malignant cutaneous wounds for health care professionals, emphasizing the substantial role of their support persons. Recognizing the impact of cultural humility and the need to deliver care that respects individual beliefs and practices is crucial in providing effective and equitable care. The 23 presented recommendations aim to guide nurses, the interdisciplinary team, and the health system to enhance the overall quality of malignant cutaneous wound care management. Authors: Debra Johnston, MN, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), University Health Network, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Valerie Chaplain, BScN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), Quebec Montfort Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Marilyn Kerr, MClSc-WH, BN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), Alberta Seniors Health, Central Zone, Camrose, Alberta, Canada. Jennifer Malley, MN, BN, RN, CHPCN(C), Extra-Mural Program, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada. Valentina Popov, BN, RN, NSWOC, WOCC (C), ParaMed Home Health Care, Kitchener, Onatrio, Canada. Dawn Ross, BScN, RN, CHPCN(C), Nova Scotia Health Authority, Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada. Jordan Smart, MClSc-WH, BN, RN, NSWOC WOCC(C), Lethbridge Home Care, Alberta Health Services, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. We extend our congratulations to the authors and encourage everyone in the wound care and palliative care fields to explore this groundbreaking work. Let’s continue advancing excellence in patient care together! Access the publication below.

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is proud to announce that the Canadian Consensus Statement on the Management of Venous Leg Ulcers has been endorsed by our Board of Directors and is currently under review for publication in the International Wound Journal. This Consensus Statement provides a concise, practical guide for clinicians to apply best practices at the bedside, enhancing the quality of care for patients with venous leg ulcers (VLUs) in a cost-effective manner. We extend our gratitude to the incredible team of experts, including NSWOCC members, who collaborated to create this valuable resource: Access the Document To download the full Canadian Consensus Statement on the Management of Venous Leg Ulcers, visit this link . We sincerely thank Dr. Michael Stacey and the entire panel for their dedication to advancing care for patients with venous leg ulcers. Together, we are shaping a future of improved outcomes for patients across Canada and beyond.