Nurse Clinician - Skin Wound and Ostomy

The Skin Wound and ostomy (SWO) clinician applies a specialized and expanded body of knowledge of the integumentary wound, ostomy and continence systems in the care to the patient experiencing issues in these areas.  The clinician provides an advanced assessment of skin, burns, wound, incontinence and ostomy issues and develops a plan of care in conjunction with the patient, family and interdisciplinary team.  The SWO Clinician supports the development of a culture of prevention of skin breakdown and pressure ulcer development and is well versed in best practices related to skin, wound and ostomy care.  Essential to the role is an understanding and expertise with advanced wound care products; negative pressure wound therapy, therapeutic surface and adjuvant therapies.  The SWO Clinician is well versed in the best practices related to the prevention and management of pressure ulcers and care of patients with an ostomy.  The Clinician teaches, counsels, troubleshoots, and advises patients and their families with skin, wound, burn, and stoma care.  The Clinician will coach and support staff in being able to assess and problem solve basic wound care issues, as well as provide recommendations in navigating complex wounds.  

1. Baccalaureate level Nursing degree required
2. Active license as a Registered Nurse with the College of Nurses of Ontario. 
3. Certificate as a Nurse Specialized in Skin, Wound and Ostomy care (NSWOC) or an equivalent program recognized through the Canadian Association of Enterostomal Therapy.
4. Experience with the management of burn patients is an asset.
5. 3-5 years of recent experience in the management of abdominal fistulae, stomas and complex wounds.
6. Commitment to ongoing professional development with demonstrated proof of continuing education. 
7. Demonstrated ability to provide education to patients and health professionals regarding skin, wound, burns and stoma care, as well as mentor clinical staff.
8. Knowledge of full scope of treatment modalities for skin, wound, burns and stoma management and preventative skin care techniques.
9. Knowledge and experience in implementation of the principles of adult teaching and learning.
10. Demonstrated ability to effectively apply current research knowledge to clinical practice.
11. Demonstrated ability to function effectively as part of an Interprofessional team.
12. Demonstrated ability to manage complex psychological needs of patients and families.
13. Demonstrated ability to assist unit staff to problem-solve patient skin care issues including pressure reduction surfaces, utilizing fiscal resources responsibly.
14. Ability to focus on corporate skin, wound and ostomy initiatives by participating in activities that champion best practices.