Can you tell me what your passing rate is for wound and ostomy certification exams?

WEB WOC has been unable to obtain accurate certification results from the WOCNCB.  WEB WOC learners test at the national average published on the WOCNCB’s website: https://www.wocncb.org/certification/wound-ostomy-continence/exam

Advanced Practice Exam

We receive an occasional question about the AP level WOCNCB exam. WOCN accredited nursing education programs educate to the entry level of practice, rather than advanced practice.  We would refer you to the WOCNCB for information on their website.  A person becomes an advanced practice nurse by having a master’s degree and being certified by a recognized certification entity, i.e. ANCC, recognized by their board of nursing.  Some examples are APRN, ARNP, FNP-BC, etc.  Thus it is our position that advanced practice nurses do not need to take the WOCNCB AP level certification.  They already practice at an advanced practice level of WOC nursing.

Statement from WOCNCB:

The AP level WOC examinations contain questions pertaining to that level/scope of practice in the specialty. A couple major differences will be prescription and diagnosis. We recommend the learner reviews each of the Exam Content Outlines to determine if they wish to pursue the AP level exams based on the subject matter and their preparedness.  The individual may choose either level credentialing and whether it benefits their role will depend upon their state board of nursing recognition or facility job description, or personal goals. The AP WOC credentials will demonstrate they have this advanced practice level knowledge in the specialty.

The Exam Content Outlines are found on this page of our website:

http://www.wocncb.org/certification/exam-preparation/exam-content-outlines

Further, we now have Self-Assessment Exams for the -AP level exams – linked on our site:

http://www.wocncb.org/certification/exam-preparation/practice-exam-sae

Learners Asking About Job Outlooking Assistance and WOC Careers

For your questions regarding WOC careers, it is recommended that you contact the WOCN and/or visit the ‘Career Center’ on their website (www.wocn.org). The WOCN actually reports on job placement opportunities and should be able to provide you with job search resources.

In regard to the current job market for WOC nursing, you may want to think about the possibility of shadowing a current WOC nurse.  You would need to begin networking – start by contacting nearby hospitals and asking if they employ WOC nurses. It will be these WOC nurses that can provide you with information on the current job market and with the possibility of shadowing someone before pursuing your WOC education.  If you live near a metropolitan area, there are major medical centers that most times employ WOC nurses.  Networking is an invaluable tool that is important early on, during and even after completion of, your WOC education.  It becomes a lifelong tool that provides many resources.