Advice for a new grad looking into Wound Care Nursing?
Go obtain your WOCN certification. There are ton of programs available just google the phrase and look into them. I am sure you'll find one that works for you!
1. Review the WOCNCB.org website, which will provide you with all the information you need to know about certification in this specialty. Also, review the WOCN.org website.
2. Gain experience in Med-Surg before pursuing any specialty. You need to master communication skills, assessment skills, technical skills, organizational skills, documentation skills, observe and assist in wound and ostomy care, attend as many inservice education and wound care programs and read journals, text books in the specialty. During this time you will determine whether this specialty is what you truly want to pursue.
3. How will your employer support you during the lengthy period of time that you are working toward certification - assist with cost of education, allow you time to meet the requirements and clinicals. Work, if you can, with other wound care specialists in other facilities.
4. I worked in this specialty for 23 years during my 46 year nursing career - and have never regretted it for one minute. Remember, be sure - you don't want to regret your decision. You will make a difference in the lives of so many.
Be sure to have a Diploma at least in Nursing or a Certificate of Nursing with qualified credentials for the careers in topical relations relating to skills needed for the job(s).
I just completed the WOCN certification at Emory University. I think you need 1-2 years acute experience before you can apply. Also, my advice is to really make sure you like it, because the program is pretty time consuming and expensive. Had I known how much work was involved, I probably would not have done the program. However, now that I'm done and working in acute setting, I'm glad I did it. The pay is awesome!!
Honestly a lot of specialty nurse jobs, you have to have someone you know to refer you. I didn't realize this tell I already completed school. Otherize it will basically like trying to win the lottery. If you live in a large city you will have a higher percentage of chances to score a job. also, the wound care cert can't hurt
you would have to be wound and ostomy specialized. It's an interesting specialty: the woundcare nurse can recommend the wound care for the surgeon to prescribe. Wound care nurses are considered advanced practice (like a certified diabetic specialist. If you got both certifications, it might be very lucrative)
Wound care requires skill and patience. Many patients have chronic diseases that require continuous education and follow up. Never give up to make a difference.
There are online classes for WOC certification available. It needs to be a reputable institution. While you study work on a floor with elderlies like a msg home. They have wound care patients. More so than med surg floors
Wound care is a very autonomous job. Having the ability to work independently and feel confident in your decision-making process regarding dressings type, wound history, patient compliance and so on is very important. Learning wound care in a clinic setting, surrounded with co-worker's vs a hospital may be a better place to start in order to learn the ropes.
Get your WOCN certification.. requires specific hours of care...
