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Basic description
The wound ostomy care nurse practitioner provides primary care to patients requiring ostomy and wound care that includes accurate assessment, documentation, treatment, and evaluation of care based on national standards and evidence-based guidelines. Aside from providing clinical services, the wound ostomy continence care nurse practitioner is also involved in patient teaching and care coordination to ensure timely recovery and discharge and serves as a consultant to institution and community partner organizations.
Educational requirements
Registered nurse (RN) preparation and Nurse Practitioner (NP) certification are required; most job positions require a 1-year experience as an NP and 5 years experience as an RN; certification is available from the Wound Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification Board.
Core competencies/skills needed
■ Excellent assessment, interpersonal, and critical analysis skills
■ Sensitivity to the needs of patients and their families
■ Ability to work in a team
■ Strong leadership and organizational skills
■ Strong computer and documentation skills
Related Web sites and professional organizations
■ Wound Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification Board (http://www.wocncb.org/become-certified/advanced-practice/)
■ Wound Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (http://www.wocncb.org/become-certified/advanced-practice/)