Job Description
The Wound Ostomy Continence (WOC) nurse serves as the clinical resource and consultant for the acute and rehabilitative care of patients with selected disorders of the gastrointestinal genitourinary and integumentary systems (e.g. complex draining wounds ostomies fistulae dermal ulcers tubes). The WOC nurse should be prepared to provide the full scope of WOC nursing practice including education counseling research and administration.
Responsibilities
Ability to determine the appropriate site for stoma placement
Assist nursing and medical staff in maintaining current knowledge and competence in ostomy and wound management skin care
Develops and monitors standards of care and assists in the formulation and evaluation of procedures protocols and policies
Functions as a change agent to improve patient care through research utilization policy development and system changes
Incorporates health education as an integral part of nursing practice in identifying and meeting patient and staff needs
Maintain and submit required activity and statistical reports to unit manager
Participate in hospital approved committees and community support programs
Provide appropriate written information to patients and staff including postoperative and discharge instructions referrals and supply needs
Provide consultation and direct assistance to nursing staff on issues related to patients with altered skin integrity secondary to pressure necrosis drainage
Provide patient education to patients undergoing ostomy surgery
Provides coaching/counseling for staff to improve professional/technical skills
Provides learning opportunities for health team members
Recommend standards for selection of cost-effective supplies and equipment for wound ostomy to be utilized in the hospital
Serves as a clinical consultant to patients and health care professionals for specialty area
Serves as a resource for patients after discharge
Utilize and maintain current physical assessment skills and interview techniques to determine patient needs
Participate in development and implementation of procedures and protocols related to the care of patients with colon disorders conditions requiring wound management containment impaired or altered skin integrity
Qualifications
Required Education: Bachelors Degree or higher OR satisfactory completion of an accredited Bachelors of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN) program within two to three (2-3) years after assuming the position
Preferred Education: Masters of Science Degree in Nursing (MSN)
Required Experience: Three to five (3-5) years of related experience Computer skills including word processing (Word), data base management (Excel), and presentation (Power point) software Recent experience giving direct care as a registered nurse, preferably in the acute or critical care type setting
Required Certifications and Licensures: Hold a current, active license as a registered nurse in Virginia or hold a current multistate licensure privilege as a registered nurse. Current certification by the WOCNCB in one or more of the following category's; Wound, Ostomy or Continence. Or obtain within one year. Hold a current, active American Heart Association Basic Life Support (AHA BLS) course completion card.
Salary Range: $36.99-$57.32/hr.
