Course Descriptions

This course, a prerequisite for all courses, will address the critical underpinnings to implementation of the role of the WOC specialty scope nurse. Learners will gain knowledge of the history of the specialty, legal and ethical issues pertaining to implementation of the role, and professional growth opportunities. Learners will also explore practice development essentials, role justification, budgeting, marketing, and development of a business plan for a practice or a project.

60 ANCC Contact Hours. This course focuses on the care of the client across the lifespan who may be at risk for skin breakdown, who has a break in skin integrity or who has an existing wound. Specifically, learners will gain knowledge of the etiology, differential diagnoses, clinical findings and management options for patients with wounds and chronic skin complications.

60 ANCC Contact Hours. This course will address the immediate and long term care of clients across the lifespan who require an ostomy or continent diversion. Specifically learners will gain knowledge of the etiology, differential diagnoses, clinical findings and management options of the common conditions necessitating an ostomy or continent diversion. Emphasis will be on the technical, educational, and psychosocial needs of this patient population. Fistula, tube and drain, and complications are presented.

60 ANCC Contact Hours. This course will address the care of patients with bowel or bladder control issues. Specifically learners will gain knowledge of the etiologies, differential diagnoses, clinical findings and nursing, medical and surgical management options. Content will include reversible risk factors, focused physical assessment and examination, behavioral, pharmacologic, and surgical interventions, containment, and skin protection.

A 50-hr clinical practicum with an approved preceptor is required to complete each of the Wound/Ostomy or Continence Scope(s).