Wound Care

Wound Ostomy Continence Nurse (WOCN)The Wound Ostomy Continence Nurse (WOCN) collaborates with the medical staff, nursing associates, and ancillary departments to develop and implement care to a specific population. Under general supervision and according to established practices and professional standards, provides and/or coordinates the care and service of patients with specific disorders of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and integumentary systems such as ostomies, fistulae, tubes, dermal wounds, pressure ulcers, and fecal or urinary incontinence across the continuum of illness. Goals and priorities are established in accordance with patient/staff needs and organizational objectives. These endeavors are conducted in a positive attitude within the established objectives, policies, procedures, and philosophical framework of the Department of Patient Care Services. They are directed toward the achievement of excellence in patient care. Employee may be shared and travel within the Powers HealthCare System.Job Responsibilities:Uses appropriate critical thinking skills to make independent decisions commensurate with the autonomy, authority, and responsibility of a Wound Ostomy Continence Nurse (WOCN). Fulfills all functions afforded to registered nurses.Acts as consultant, collaborator, and a resource person to nursing and other members of the healthcare team in providing high quality patient care. Uses the nursing process to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate high risk wound and ostomy patient care in accordance with established Community Hospital Standards, Policies, and Procedures and as validated to perform. Conducts periodic reassessment of patient and needs.Works collaboratively with the multidisciplinary team to coordinate and evaluate the health education, discharge planning, and continuity of care of patients, family members, and significant others. Establishes and maintains a cooperative working relationship with representatives of various agencies and other resources essential to effective post discharge care.Documents assessment, plan, interventions, and patient response in the medical record.Identifies division education needs and collaborates with the Nurse Practitioners or Director of Wound Ostomy Services and the Education Department to provide formal and informal experiences to meet them. Collaborates with other departments and disciplines as needed to implement programs.Participates in the development, interpretation, implementation, and review of department and hospital policies, procedures, protocols, standards, and documentation related to the wound and ostomy population.Collaborates with the Nurse Practitioners or Director of Wound Ostomy Services, other divisions, and disciplines regarding needs, plans for change, and quality of care issues. Contributes to nursing and institutional functioning through active participation on committees and attendance at designated meetings.Identifies areas for clinical studies and/or quality improvement, promotes or conducts investigations and/or monitors in these areas. Assists with new product trials and monitors new product effectiveness. Maintains appropriate department records and statistics.Coordinates and participates in professional organizations and community service programs as needed.Participates as a nurse preceptor for colleagues, undergraduate, and wound ostomy continence nursing students.Reviews annually and adheres to all federal, state, and local laws and standards as they relate to the ethical and legal compliance plans and policies.Education/Experience:Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from an accredited school of nursingCurrent State LicenseMinimum 2 years current experience in wound and ostomy care preferredCompletion of a WOCN accredited Professional Education Program or other appropriate wound care certification. WOCN certification preferred; enrollment in program should be obtained within one year of appointment with minimum of Wound Ostomy Nurse (WON) certification completed within two years of appointment.Comprehensive Benefits Program (Not all inclusive):Medical, dental, and vision coverageHealthcare and Dependent Care Spending AccountsRetirement savings planLife insurance and disability coverage optionsFitness center discount programTuition assistance and career developmentPaid Time OffWellness reward and recognition programsEmployee Assistance Program Counseling, nutritional, and financial education, etc.Perks - Instant Discounts & Exclusive Deals on hotels, food, clothing, etc.