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June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It's a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact the evolving Canada. Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is privileged to work closely alongside our Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Core Program to help improve the lives of Indigenous People in the areas of wound, ostomy and continence care. As we reflect and honour the past of Indigenous people in Canada, we are also committed to working towards a better future in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation. We invite you to visit our Sharing Circle website at www.sharingcircle.online for resources and tools related to wound, ostomy and continence health care for Indigenous People. #NIHM2024

As Pride Month 2024 begins, we at Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) proudly stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. This month is a vital time to celebrate diversity, promote inclusivity, and recognize the ongoing mission towards equality & equity. Our commitment at NSWOCC is rooted in the belief that "Every Person Deserves Specialized Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care." This includes fostering an environment where every individual, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels safe, respected, and valued. At NSWOCC, we believe that true celebration of Pride goes beyond just words of recognition. In addition, it involves taking actionable steps to support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. To achieve equity, diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility among the 2SLGBTQIA+ Community and other marginalized groups, NSWOCC will provide: A Safe Environment: NSWOCC strives to create an open, inclusive, and equitable environment in which every person has the opportunity to flourish. NSWOCC will support zero-tolerance for discrimination and harassment. Respectful Communication: Enforce respectful communication and cooperation between all constituents. Support accessible digital communications. Equitable Access: Provide access and information to its Board, Core Program Leaders Members, Students, Partners including Industry, Staff, Faculty, and potential applicants in order that they may support the organization's work. Support architectural access to all for on-site events. Equitable Opportunity: Provide equitable opportunity for inclusivity. Have Leaders, Members, Students, Volunteers and Staff who reflect the increasingly diverse population that we serve bringing a broad scope of contributions. Offer opportunities that engage all Members and Students in the work of NSWOCC. Supporting Policies: Develop and align policies and practices tailored to marginalized and racialized groups. Cultural Safety Practices: Explore, develop, and implement cultural safety practices. Cultural humility and Safety: this is achieved by a genuine attempt to understand the individual as it relates to race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, education and or religion. Ultimately, Pride Month is not just about the past and present; it's also about paving the way for a more inclusive future. As Pride Month unfolds, let's remember that each step toward inclusivity and understanding makes a difference. On behalf of NSWOCC, we wish you a happy Pride Month!

Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is thrilled to announce the release of a pioneering set of resources: the Urinary Catheter Decision Aids. These four decision aids are now readily available for download, aiming to streamline catheter selection processes and bolster patient care across Canada. NSWOCC invites you to widely distribute these invaluable resources among your peers and colleagues. The decision aids include: Adult Intermittent Urinary Catheter Decision Aid Adult Indwelling Urinary Catheter Decision Aid Paediatric Intermittent Urinary Catheter Decision Aid Paediatric Indwelling Urinary Catheter Decision Aid Background: Urethral catheterization is necessary for individuals unable to empty their bladder to otherwise prevent complications resulting from urinary retention. Feedback from Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOCs), in 2020, following the launch of the Clean Intermittent Urethral Catheterization in Adults - Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Nurses identified the lack of standardization in the use of urinary catheters across the health care spectrum. This identified a need for nursing decision aids to guide catheter selection and prompted the formation of a task force to develop standardized decision aids. A group of twenty-four nurses with expertise in the field of continence were drawn from relevant professional associations across Canada. The work of this expert group and the resulting four decision aids below provide a standardized approach to support nurses on appropriate catheter selection for intermittent and indwelling catheterization for patients of all ages. Acknowledgments: Under the adept leadership of Karen Campbell, this task force meticulously developed the four decision aids. NSWOCC extends our thanks to the following diligent task force members: Ehsan Adiban Tarik Alam Barbara Anderson Madeleine Ashcroft Genet Begashaw Jennifer Bilbie Michelle Buffalo Marcia Carr Berenice Chan Valérie Chaplain Natalie Kameka Corey Knott Carly Lindsay Jana Lognon Svea Ménard Valentina Popov Gina Porter Jodi Quinlan Gita Rafiee Laura Robbs Kaila Snider Ashley Thompson Andrea Trainor Additionally, NSWOCC acknowledges Louise Rudden for her invaluable contributions as a subject matter expert on paediatric catheterization. Coming Soon: The French translation of these Urinary Catheter Decision Aids will be available in the near future. La traduction française de ces aides à la décision sur les sondes urinaires sera bientôt disponible. Important Note: Nurses must practice within nursing regulatory body scope of practice and in accordance with health care organizational policies and procedures. Always refer to manufacturer’s instructions for use. Article: Development of a decision aid for nurses supporting urinary catheter selection Published in both French and English in the NSWOC Advance volume 35, Issue 1 (March 2024). Access the article here: https://www.flipbookserver.com/Decision-Aids

May 17th has been recognized in Canada as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB). This significant day serves as an important reminder to honour the diversity and resilience of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities worldwide, while also shedding light on the persistent discrimination and challenges they experience. At NSWOCC, we stand firm in our commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) as foundational values that define our organization. We strive for inclusivity by actively engaging and welcoming all voices, especially those who have historically been marginalized or excluded. By embracing these principles, we can work together to cultivate an environment where every member is valued, respected, and provided with equitable opportunities for growth and advancement. As we observe International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, let us renew our dedication to fostering a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community and beyond. Together, let us celebrate the richness of our membership and continue our collective efforts to build a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone. In solidarity, NSWOCC

NSWOCC is thrilled to announce the launch of our Virtual Care Toolkit! In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOCs) have pioneered virtual care solutions to ensure uninterrupted support for clients. Introducing the NSWOCC Virtual Care Toolkit: a comprehensive resource designed by a dedicated task force to empower NSWOCs in navigating the complexities of virtual care delivery. This toolkit, accessible online, addresses legal, technological, and equity considerations, offering practical guidance for delivering high-quality care virtually. From legal compliance to technology integration and inclusive care practices, the toolkit equips NSWOCs with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in virtual care. Although this document is focused on NSWOC practice, some Skin Wellness Associate Nurses (SWANs), in particular diploma registered nurse (RN) SWANs, may have the knowledge, skills, and judgment to provide some virtual consults. Thank you to the Task Force for building NSWOCC’s first Virtual Care Toolkit!

Choosing the right products for a dressing change can be time-consuming and overwhelming–particularly if there is no standardized product formulary or protocol. Dressings for skin tears are no exception. Identifying the skin tear type is essential to choosing the right treatment and products. Medline’s system of products is designed to help address some of the challenges facing clinicians today. One of those challenges is the growing awareness that skin tears represent a significant risk to individuals, especially as we age. Medline offers advanced wound and skin care products, including an innovative approach to treating skin tears. This new approach to skin tear treatment includes a kit containing all the components necessary for a skin tear dressing application. The kit also includes step-by-step application instructions guided by the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP) Best Practice Recommendations  that will streamline and improve patient outcomes. The kit lists products recommended by ISTAP, including Marathon®, a no-sting cyanoacrylate liquid skin protectant. In a recent retrospective case series, Marathon was shown to be an effective treatment for Type 1 skin tears, its use on skin tears reduced time-to-heal and Marathon was cost-effective when compared to the traditional skin closure strips. In another case study, Marathon was shown to provide increased patient comfort, minimize pain and reduce infections for individuals residing in a Long-Term Care facility. This unique product is just one component of the innovative skin tear kit that will help you make the right choice to standardize skin tear care for your patient. References LeBlanc K et al. Best practice recommendations for the prevention and management of skin tears in aged skin. Wounds International 2018. Available to download from: https://woundsinternational.com/best-practice-statements/istap-best-practice-recommendations-prevention-and-management-skin-tears-aged-skin/ LeBlanc K and Christensen, D. Evaluation of a cyanoacrylate liquid skin protectant for the treatment of type 1 and 2 skin tears at a long-term care facility Wounds International 2020, Vol 11 Issue 2, Available to download from: https://woundsinternational.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2023/02/6a8521005eecd284ec3fd5477f40464e.pdf Hill R and Smith, S. Comparison of a cyanoacrylate liquid skin protectant to skin closure strips for the treatment of injury-related Type 1 skin tears in elderly patients. Journal of Wound Management. July, 2022. Pg 99-108. Available to download from: https://journals.cambridgemedia.com.au/application/files/9016/9320/4944/hill.pdf

This NSWOC Week, we are privileged to share the story of Norena Gonzales. We invite you to read the story below as you celebrate NSWOC Week. We thank Norena for sharing her story of resilience, perseverance, and triumph. We are so proud to have NSWOCs like Norena in our community and we hope her story inspires you too! Norena Gonzales's journey through the NSWOC program is a remarkable tale of resilience and determination. Despite facing significant health challenges and personal struggles, she emerged triumphant, inspiring countless NSWOC students along the way. Norena's dedication to completing the program was unwavering, even amidst the chaos of a Covid outbreak at her workplace. Despite the demanding circumstances, she persevered, completing the wound theory component and pushing through the obstacles. In January 2021, Norena received a devastating diagnosis of stage 3-4 cancer, with a prognosis of only six months if she declined aggressive treatment. Despite the grueling chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and major surgery that followed, she remained determined to continue her studies. With unwavering resolve, Norena completed her final NSWOC course in April 2022, alongside all preceptorship requirements by August 15 of the same year. Despite her ongoing battle with cancer, she applied for the WOCC(C) CNA examination, scheduled for November 10, 2022. However, just before the exam, Norena received heartbreaking news—her cancer had recurred and metastasized in her lungs. Undeterred, she pressed on, dedicating herself to self-review despite battling pneumonia until the end of October. Facing numerous challenges, including health setbacks and doubts about her ability to perform, Norena took the exam on November 10, 2022. Despite needing to step out of the examination room twice due to persistent coughing, she persevered. On December 6, 2022, Norena received the news that she had passed the examination, a testament to her resilience and dedication to her goals. In January, she began immunotherapy, navigating its side effects with courage and determination. Norena's journey to becoming a WOCC(C)certified NSWOC was fuelled by her passion and dreams. She became a WOCC(C) certified NSWOC because it was her greatest passion and dream. Norena was able to pass the CNA exam because she took her Academic Advisors (AA) advice to look at the critical feedback she received during the program with a positive light, which encouraged her to work even harder. Receiving her NSWOC Diploma at the NSWOCC 42nd National Conference in Ottawa, Ontario, on May 6, 2023, Norena's story serves as an inspiration to all NSWOCs, SWANs, and NSWOCC members across the country. Her unwavering spirit and dedication remind us all of the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. “Being a patient and certified NSWOC, I believe that having experiences, expertise and advanced knowledge and skills in wound, ostomy and continence care can improve patients’ quality of life, provide the highest quality of care, and reduce the healthcare cost by providing education and teaching to patients, families and other healthcare and nursing staff.” - Norena Gonzales, RN, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C)

Essity is excited to announce the addition of Hydrofera Blue products, which strengthens our clinical offering in the Advanced Wound Care therapeutic realm. If you're looking for a solution that can help reduce costs, shorten healing times, promote edge effects and offer the benefits of negative pressure wound therapy; Essity's Cutimed and Hydrofera Blue products are exclusive solutions for effective wound management and available on all National GPO contracts under Gentian Violet and Methylene Blue Antibacterial Foams. To learn more about these innovative advanced Wound Care products under the Hydrofera Blue brand, please contact us at 1-877-978-5526 Download Product Catalogues

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the unexpected passing of Dr. Gregory Schultz, Ph.D., on Friday, April 12, 2024. Dr. Schultz was a revered professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, and a luminary in the field of wound care research. Dr. Schultz’s groundbreaking research significantly advanced our understanding of the role of bacterial biofilms and their impact on chronic inflammation and the proteases that impair wound healing. His dedication to the scientific community and his innovative work have left an indelible mark on the field of wound care, providing invaluable insights that have been instrumental in improving patient outcomes. Dr. Schultz was not only a respected researcher but also a past contributor to the NSWOCC National Conference, where he shared his knowledge and findings with our community of nurses specialized in wound, ostomy, and continence care. His presentations were always met with enthusiasm for their depth of knowledge and practical applicability. Our nurses have consistently relied on Dr. Schultz’s research to guide best practices in clinical settings, benefiting from his thorough and insightful papers that have become a cornerstone in the field of wound care education. We extend our deepest condolences to the Schultz family during this difficult time. The legacy of Dr. Schultz’s contributions to wound research, education, and care will continue to resonate within the NSWOCC community and beyond. His work has not only enlightened our profession but also enhanced the lives of countless individuals facing challenging wound care issues. Thank you, Dr. Greg Schultz, for your invaluable contributions to the advancement of wound care. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will endure through the countless patients and professionals you have helped throughout your distinguished career.

Can you believe it? Our 43rd National Conference is less than one month away! From May 1- 5 2024 in Calgary, AB, join us to “Rise to the Challenge” and focus on advancing specialized care in the fields of wound, ostomy, and continence. From workshops to networking events and more, we have an action-packed educational schedule ahead of us that you won’t want to miss. Don’t believe us? Let’s learn more about everything you can expect from our upcoming 43rd National Conference Below! Watch our 2024 National Conference Promotional Video": 40+ Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Educational Sessions with Expert Knowledge from Clinical and Industry Leaders Our schedule is packed full of educational sessions on all-things wound, ostomy, and continence. These sessions are driven and developed by expert clinical and industry leaders from across the country. With over 40 sessions to choose from, you are sure to find multiple sessions that you can learn and benefit from! To check out the full educational program schedule and find the best sessions for you, simply visit the link below. Networking Opportunities with NSWOCs and SWANs from across the country NSWOCs, SWANs, and other healthcare professionals will be flocking in from across the country to our National Conference! The conference is a perfect time to meet countless new people that you can network and connect with. In addition to networking opportunities at workshops and sessions, we are also offering a NSWOCC Country and Western Sing, Stomp, and Honky-Tonk Networking Event for all attendees on Friday, May 3. So, make sure you dust off your boots and prepare to make some unforgettable memories! Knowledge sharing with 30+ Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Industry Leaders in the Exhibit Hall Throughout the conference, attendees will have full access to our exhibit hall, where wound, ostomy, and continence industry leaders will be sharing the latest and greatest technology and innovations. If you want to stay up-to-date on all-things wound, ostomy, and continence, then our exhibit hall is the place to be! Make connections, learn new things, and above all, help us focus on advancing specialized care in the fields of wound, ostomy, and continence. So, what are you waiting for? “Rise to the Challenge” and join us for the NSWOCC event of the year! It’s not too late to register, so make sure you get your tickets soon using the link below! We can’t wait to see you all there. Yeehaw!

"NSWOC-powered wound, ostomy and continence: the sign of expertise and quality in Canadian healthcare." #NSWOCPowered The theme for this year's NSWOC Week is "NSWOC-powered wound, ostomy and continence: the sign of expertise and quality in Canadian healthcare." This theme underscores the pivotal role Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOCs) play in delivering expertise and quality care to patients facing challenges related to wound, ostomy, and continence issues. This week serves as a dedicated time to celebrate the remarkable contributions of NSWOCs to our Canadian healthcare system. Wound, ostomy, and continence challenges are pervasive across all healthcare settings in Canada. These conditions not only impact patients' quality of life but also pose significant financial strains on our healthcare system. However, NSWOCs are a sign of expertise and quality in addressing these challenges effectively and efficiently. NSWOCs are registered nurses with specialized training in designing and implementing meticulous, evidence-informed care plans for patients with wound, ostomy, and continence issues. Their tri-specialization equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to lead interdisciplinary healthcare teams, promote evidence-based practices, and guide cost-efficient care decisions. One of the key strengths of NSWOCs lies in their ability to educate patients and their families, empowering them to actively participate in their care journey. By fostering self-engagement and informed decision-making, NSWOCs not only improve patient outcomes but also promote long-term wellness and independence. Moreover, NSWOCs are at the forefront of research and policy development in wound, ostomy, and continence care. Their contributions to national and provincial best practice guidelines drive forward evidence-based practices, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care possible. NSWOCs are not just healthcare providers; they are dedicated patient advocates, ensuring that each individual receives personalized, compassionate care tailored to their unique needs. Their commitment to building trust and fostering strong patient-provider relationships is truly commendable, especially considering the sensitive nature of the conditions they manage. As we celebrate NSWOC Week 2024, let us take a moment to express our gratitude to these heroes of healthcare. Their expertise, dedication, and high-quality care make a profound difference in the lives of countless patients across the country. Together, we recognize and honour the invaluable contributions of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence to our Canadian healthcare system. Thank you to all NSWOCs for your unwavering commitment to excellence in wound, ostomy, and continence care. Your tireless efforts truly embody the spirit of expertise and quality in Canadian healthcare. Download the flyer for your province or region! Click an image to download it. The NSWOC Power of 3 Many points are drawn from the Power of 3 campaign, which also has its own presentation file, social media assets, white paper, and more! To view the Power of 3, please click the button below. Activities during NSWOC Week 2024 Recognize NSWOCs Want to share an interesting story, project or initiative, or recognize an NSWOC colleague? Submit the form below and we can include it in a featured section on the NSWOCC website and/or in an upcoming newsletter! We would be happy to hear any events, projects, or initiatives you or a colleague are working on. We will make sure to feature it on social media and our website during NSWOC Week. Join the campaign: Submit your photo Be a part of our NSWOC Week campaign posts by sharing a photo of yourself and your colleagues in NSWOC gear - a lab coat, “We Will WOC You” T-Shirts, with an NSWOC mug, or any other gear you have! Share how you are celebrating NSWOC Week using #NSWOCPowered Leading up to NSWOC Week, and during the week, make sure to use the hashtag #NSWOCPowered so we can follow and re-share how you’re celebrating on social media! Follow NSWOCC on Social Media! Don’t forget to follow us too!

This is the official notice of the Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) Annual Members Meeting (AMM) taking place Thursday, May 2, 2024 at 4:30PM – 6:15 PM MDT in-person at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, 700 Centre St S, Calgary, AB T2G 5P6 in the NSWOCC National Conference plenary room (Imperial 5, 7, 9). This AMM meeting will be held as a part of the 43rd NSWOCC National Conference taking place May 1-5, 2024, as an in-person conference. All NSWOCC Members are welcome to attend if their membership status is current. NSWOCC Members are titled "Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Member" in the membership database. For the full description of voting Members, please refer to NSWOCC Operating By-law 1-3.01 Classes and Conditions of Membership. All Members (both in-person and electronically over Zoom) will have 1 vote. The following Associates are also welcome to attend as non-voting participants: Allied Healthcare Professional Associate Full-time Student Nurse Associate Government/Administrative Professionals Associate Industry Associate Industry Associate Plus International Associate Practice Enrichment Series Associate Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Associate Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) Student Associate WOC-EP Student Associate Please make sure that you renew your membership today by logging into your membership account at https://membersnswoc.ca/. To become an NSWOCC Member or Associate, visit https://www.nswoc.ca/become-a-member. HOW TO RSVP Make sure to RSVP to make your vote count and your voice heard, as well as to learn about key association business, and celebrate successes. This meeting will take place in-person at the Hyatt Regency Calgary, Calgary AB in the Plenary room (Imperial 5, 7, 9). Food will be available immediately following the meeting. In addition to being held in-person, the 2024 AMM will also be held via Zoom Webinar in order to include those Members who were unable to travel to Calgary, Alberta. For those unable to attend in-person, Members may still RSVP in advance to attend the meeting on Zoom. Associates are not able to attend online.  Only current, active NSWOCC Members will be eligible to vote. All NSWOCC Members will be accommodated; however, and walk-ins can register at the door if they are unable to register in advance of the AMM. To attend either in-person or on Zoom, please RSVP by clicking below: 2024 AMM Members Package NSWOCC Members can access the 2024 AMM Members Package by clicking the files below, or by logging into your membership account at https://membersnswoc.ca/. The package contains the Annual Members Meeting Agenda, the NSWOCC 2023-2024 Annual Report, the draft NSWOCC 2023 AMM Meeting Minutes, and the 2024 Election Slate of Directors and Officers of the Association. 2024 Annual Report NSWOCC is built by Members and is for the Members... Thank you so much for the immeasurably valuable work you have done for Nurses Specialized in Wound, ostomy and Continence Canada over the past year! We cannot thank you enough and want to let you know that your dedication is essential to the work that we do. We cannot do it without you! We would not want to do it without you! You bring ideas, positive energy and a beautiful intensity. We hope you will come back and join us soon on an exciting initiative, and maybe even bring a colleague with you! You can now access the 2024 Annual Report by clicking the file below. Please review the package carefully prior to the May 2, 2024 AMM in order to be prepared to vote. If you should have any questions, please contact the NSWOCC Chief Executive Officer, Catherine Harley at office@nswoc.ca. We look forward to seeing you there. Sincerely, The NSWOCC Board of Directors