Wound, Ostomy and Continence
Also known as Enterostomal Therapy Nursing
A wound, ostomy, continence nurse (WOC Nurse), sometimes referred to as an enterostomal therapy (ET) nurse, is a graduate of a WOC Nursing Education Program accredited by the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Board. This nurse provides acute and rehabilitative care for people with selective disorders of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary and integumentary (skin) systems.
The nurse provides teaching for patients and families in areas of disease process, techniques in pouching, dressing wounds, skin care and continence. The nurse collaborates closely with physicians, case managers, staff nurses, physical therapists, dietitians, social workers and other members of the health care team to provide a well-balanced and comprehensive plan of care.