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  • What to do in Montreal During the National Conference

    By Jessica Jones, RN, BN, stomothérapeute, WOCC(C) The National Conference is just one way to enjoy Montréal! One of our Membership Core Program Members, Jessica Jones, RN, BN, stomothérapeute, WOCC(C), put together a list of things to do and places to eat to make your Things to do: Botanical Gardens (Viau or Pie IX metro); by the end of May the garden should be starting to spring into bloom. This site also boasts Olympic stadium, the biodome, planetarium and insectarium (buy a combined ticket to save money) as well as Saputo stadium, home of the Montreal impact if you want to catch a soccer game.  Atwater Market (Lionel Groulx Metro). La Grande roue de Montreal; enjoy sweeping city views.  Old Montreal, Old Port and Notre Dame Basilica; wander around this area on foot and enjoy the historic side of Montreal with its impressive architecture, street performers and food trucks. Spa Bota Bota; after 5 days of conference unwind at this spa located on a boat in the St-Laurence. Oratoire Saint-Joseph (Cote des Neiges Metro); whether or not you decide to walk up all the stairs on your knees, according to tradition, it is a beautiful walk with stunning views.  Eaton centre, the worlds largest underground mall in case the weather isn’t cooperating. Credit © Sylvie Li - Tourisme Montréal Places to eat: Save La Banquise  (Mont-Royal Metro) unanimously voted the best poutine in Montreal by Quebec NSWOC’s  Schwartz’s Deli  (Sherbrooke Metro) classic Montreal smoke meat.  St-Viateur Bagel  (Mont-Royal Metro) Montreal is famously known for their bagels. Nothing beats one of these fresh out of the oven.  Splurge Garde Manger , upscale tasting menus by famous Montreal Chef Chuck Hughs. Make sure to reserve early.  Saturday afternoon Tea at the Fairmount Queen Elizabeth Hotel : nothing says fancy like tiny sandwiches at the hotel where John and Yoko had their famous anti-war bed-in in 1969. Credit © Alison Slattery - Tourisme Montréal Credit © Laurène Tinel - Tourisme Montréal

  • Marcia Leard, RN, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C) Honoured with King Charles III Commemorative Medal

    On April 3, 2025, Marcia Leard, RN, BScN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), Past President of NSWOCC, was awarded the prestigious King Charles III Commemorative Medal for her remarkable contributions to nursing in Prince Edward Island. Marcia was recognized alongside Lieutenant Governor of Prince Edward Island Dr. Wassim Salamoun. The Coronation Medal celebrates the ascension of His Majesty King Charles III to the throne of Canada and is overseen by the Chancellery of Honours at Rideau Hall. It is awarded to individuals who have significantly enhanced their community, province, territory, or Canada as a whole, or who have achieved extraordinary success internationally, bringing credit to Canada. Congratulations, Marcia, on this well-deserved honour! #TeamNSWOC

  • NSWOC Week 2025: April 14-18, 2025

    Team Canada: NSWOCs bring the gold standard to your interprofessional team #TeamNSWOC Click the image to download it. NSWOC Week 2025 is fast approaching, and this year’s theme, " Team Canada: NSWOCs bring the gold standard to your interprofessional team ," shines a spotlight on the essential role Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (NSWOCs) play in delivering high-quality care to all wound, ostomy and continence patients across Canada. Why NSWOCs are Essential to Interprofessional Teams NSWOCs bring an unparalleled level of expertise to the healthcare teams they are a part of. With their tri-specialization in wound care, ostomy management, and continence care, NSWOCs ensure that patients facing complex, multifaceted challenges receive the highest standard of care possible. As we celebrate NSWOC Week 2025, it’s important to recognize that NSWOCs are not just providers of direct care—they are leaders in the healthcare system and on interprofessional healthcare teams. Their work goes far beyond patient care, positively influencing interdisciplinary teams through: Evidence-informed leadership  on healthcare teams, guiding decision-making and ensuring cost-effective, high-quality care. Advanced, specialized approaches  to the assessment and management of wounds, ostomies, and continence challenges. Patient education  that empowers individuals and their families to take an active role in their care. Contributions to research , developing protocols, guidelines, and evidence-based practices that shape the future of healthcare. The Impact of NSWOCs on Patient Outcomes (taken from the Power of 3 Campaign) NSWOCs are key to improving the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of healthcare. Studies have shown that home care agencies employing NSWOCs are more likely to see significant improvements in patient outcomes. For example, patients receiving care from NSWOCs experience a notable reduction in pressure injuries, urinary incontinence, and lower extremity ulcers. In fact, pressure injuries are nearly twice as likely to improve, while urinary incontinence shows a 40% improvement, and lower extremity ulcers and surgical wounds improve by 20% to 40% (Westra et al., 2013). Moreover, NSWOCs help patients with ostomies select the right pouching system, tailored to their needs, ostomy type, and abdominal skin contours, thus preventing complications (LeBlanc et al., 2019). They also play a vital role in preventing continence-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) and incontinence-associated dermatitis, contributing to better overall care and reducing complications (LeBlanc et al., 2019). The Power of 3: Why NSWOCs Are the Gold Standard You can access the full Power of 3 campaign online, which also has its own presentation file, social media assets, white paper, and more! Visit https://www.nswoc.ca/powerof3 . Join the Celebration: Share Your #TeamNSWOC Story or Nominate an NSWOC for an award! As we look forward to NSWOC Week 2025, let’s take the time to express our gratitude to NSWOCs across Canada. Their contributions—whether in direct care, team leadership, research, or patient education—truly embody the gold standard in Canadian healthcare. We encourage you to join the celebration and recognize your NSWOC colleagues! Share your stories, projects, or recognize someone special by submitting the form below. We’ll feature these NSWOCs and stories on our website or in our newsletter, and you can also nominate an NSWOC for the 2025 NSWOCC Membership Award. Don’t forget to take part in our social media campaign by sharing a photo of yourself and your colleagues using the hashtag #TeamNSWOC . Thank you to all NSWOCs for your unwavering commitment to excellence. Your expertise and dedication make a profound difference, not only in the lives of patients but also in shaping the future of healthcare delivery across Canada. Let’s continue to celebrate and amplify the impact of NSWOCs in our healthcare system! Download the NSWOC Week flyer and campaign materials now! Download the flyer! Click an image to download it. The NSWOC Power of 3 Many points are drawn from the Power of 3 campaign, which also has its own presentation file, social media assets, white paper, and more! To view the Power of 3, please click the button below. Activities related to NSWOC Week 2025 Recognize NSWOCs & Nominate an NSWOC for an Award Want to share an interesting story, project or initiative, or recognize an NSWOC colleague? Submit the form below and we can include it in a featured section on the NSWOCC website and/or in an upcoming newsletter! We would be happy to hear any events, projects, or initiatives you or a colleague are working on. We will make sure to feature it on social media and our website during NSWOC Week. Want to take it one step further? Nominate someone for the 2024-2025 NSWOCC Membership Award! The NSWOCC Membership Award recognizes NSWOCC Members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the field of wound, ostomy, and continence care. This annual award celebrates Members who embody the spirit of our specialty through their actions, initiatives, service, leadership, and/or resilience. The award may celebrate those who: Provide exceptional wound, ostomy, and/or continence care to patients. Implement innovative workplace initiatives to improve quality of care. Exhibit outstanding leadership or mentorship to NSWOCs, SWANs, students, and/or colleagues. Share inspiring stories of resilience or perseverance. Undertake any other contributions to the field of wound, ostomy and/or continence deemed worthy of recognition. Nominate them now below! Join the campaign: Submit your photo Be a part of our NSWOC Week campaign posts by sharing a photo of yourself and your colleagues in NSWOC gear - a lab coat, “We Will WOC You” T-Shirts, with an NSWOC mug, or any other gear you have! Share how you are celebrating NSWOC Week using #TeamNSWOC Leading up to NSWOC Week, and during the week, make sure to use the hashtag #TeamNSWOC so we can follow and re-share how you’re celebrating on social media! Follow NSWOCC on Social Media! Don’t forget to follow us too!

  • Announcing the launch of the Canadian Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (CJWOC)!

    Starting with its Spring 2025 Issue, the CJWOC will be the official publication of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Canada (NSWOCC). Replacing the NSWOC Advance , this peer-reviewed journal represents an important evolution toward a more scientific and academic-focused publication that reflects the high level of research that raises the standard of our wound, ostomy and continence specialty in Canada.  The Canadian Journal of Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (CJWOC) will be published three times per year—in Spring, Fall, and Winter—and is available in both digital and print formats. The journal is indexed in CINAHL and EBSCOhost through EBSCO Publishing, as well as in Cengage Learning/Gale, ensuring wide accessibility for healthcare professionals and researchers. NSWOCC Members can access the first issue! Join the CJWOC Community by submitting a manuscript - First time authors welcome! The CJWOC publishes peer-reviewed manuscripts on topics related to wound, ostomy, and continence nursing practice. Submit your clinical article or case study now and share your research and experiences with colleagues across Canada.   For more submission information or editorial guidelines, click below or reach out to an Editorial Board representative for free writing and coaching support. ​ Please note that you must review the Editorial Guidelines prior to submitting a manuscript. The license of copyright form and publication release for photographs/diagrams must also be completed in order to submit a manuscript. ​ If you have any questions, please send an email to our Editor-in-Chief at  cjwoc@nswoc.ca , copying  office@nswoc.ca .  Learn more at www.cjwoc.ca .

  • A message from WCET: A year to remember and a journey to celebrate

    “Happiness is a journey not a destination” – Buddha     Laurent Chabal  BSc (CBP), RN, OncPall (Cert), Dip (WH), ET, EAWT  Specialized Stoma Nurse. Ensemble Hospitalier de la Côte - Morges’ Hospital  Lecturer. Geneva School of Health Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland. Haute école de santé Genève, HES-SO Haute école spécialisée de Suisse occidentale  WCET® President  Member of the WCET® Education Committee    As we are celebrating the 45th year of the WCET® Journal, this year has a special acknowledgement to my own Nursing and Stoma Nurse journey.    As some of you will have heard me say, being a Nurse is my second life. Prior to that I had been a student at the University studying biology and more specifically “Cellular Biology and Physiology”(1). This is a pathway which definitely helped me in my career, even though at the time I had no idea it would, or that it would bring me where I stand today. It was also the time that I moved from France to Switzerland, although since a young age, I had traveled back and forth between these two countries to see my mom’s family on holidays.    It has now been 30 years that I became a Nurse. I started at Morges’ Hospital, Switzerland in July 1995. After years of practice on an internal medical unit, and some oncology care, with two years spent in the Hospital’s Pain Control Unit, I was officially certified as a Stoma Nurse in July 2005. I then joined the WCET® Executive Board (EB) in June 2014, at the end of the WCET® Congress held in Gothenburg, Finland.    What amazes me is that I am still learning from patients, families and colleagues, even though I am working in the Stoma, Wound and Continence field for more than 20 years (which I started in July 2003 even before being trained). I feel blessed to serve as an Executive Board member for more than 10 years. I am proud of the job done so far:     I was instrumental in the revision of the BullETin changing it into the Magazine as it is now  I have seen our Journal be professionally translated into 4 languages other than English; thanks to the effort of our Past Immediate President, Dr Elizabeth A Ayello, and the support of Coloplast China regarding its Chinese version, and to Calmoseptine® for its Portuguese and Spanish version. For now, WCET® is still supporting the French version, and all electronic versions (including the English one) which are available via the website(2) in free access. These languages are the top 5 most spoken languages of our membership.  Our organization has won 3 prestigious awards in a row, thanks goes to our outstanding members (EB and others, past and present)  We joined the International Council of Nurses (ICN) as an affiliate organization, allowing our work to be seen on the international specialty and non-specialty nursing stage   Led the creation of the WCET® Past President Advisory Panel  Led the WCET® Journal “Best Article of the Year” initiative. Please refer to the next Journal joint message for more information about it.   I feel very fortunate to have been Vice-President and President Elect in the COVID-19 period, when we also underwent a change of company management, a challenge we had to deal with as a team, under Dr Elizabeth A. Ayello presidency.  I got to work closely with such amazing Wound Ostomy and/or Continence Nurses dedicated to their work, giving their time and energy, without expecting anything in return, for a purpose which goes far beyond themselves.  As an EB member have witnessed the celebration of the 100th anniversary of our founder, Norma N. Gill, the 45th birthday of our organization, Sadly I had to witness several pioneers leaving life’s stage – most recently we lost Norma’s daughter, Sally J. Thompson(3) who will be greatly missed.  I was honoured to attend the 2024 Wound Ostomy Continence Nurses (WOCN®) Conference in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, where our tri specialty was created from the ground up.     In addition, this year marks the 120th anniversary of the Nursing school where I was trained in Geneva, “Le Bon Secours” now called “Haute Ecole de Santé” and the 25th anniversary of the Ensemble Hospitalier de la Côte, where I work as a Clinician.    Denise Hibbert will be taking over as the next WCET® President. This year will mark the special attention and follow up on WCET® matters in order to make ready for her to be able to step in at the end of our next WCET® Biennial Congress in 2026, this will be a celebration of our 25th biennial Congress.     We will know by the end of this year who our next President Elect will be as the call for nominations has gone out and the election will run in July.    I can also say I could not be happier to end my presidency when attending this next biennial congress which will be a WCET-NSWOCC joint congress, held in Vancouver from April 24 to 28, 2026. I feel very confident WCET® will continue its journey in very good hands when the time comes for me to formally pass the torch to Denise and her team.     Chabal LO. 2022. WCET® Welcomes new President: Laurent O. Chabal. NSWOC Advance  52(2):52-54  https://wcetn.org/page/ReadJournal    Ayello EA & Chabal LO. 2024. Sally J (born Gill) Thompson, ET 1 June 1952 - 19 October 2024. WCET® Journal  44(4):11.

  • geko™: Unparalleled evidence in support of wound healing

    The geko™ Wound Therapy device improves blood flow, reduces edema, and accelerates wound healing. The following are the most recent  articles about the geko™ Wound Therapy Device with links to the articles:   Harding et al:  geko™ device Increases Microcirculatory Flux in Mixed Etiology Leg Ulcers.   Advances in Skin & Wound Care   38(1):p 25-30, 1/2 2025.  |  DOI:  10.1097/ASW.0000000000000261   Link to Paper Collarte A, Dee N . Muscle pump activation for hard-to-heal leg ulcers. J Community Nurs 39(1): 28–36 2025.   Link to Paper Stacey MC, Sibbald RG, Evans R. Continuous muscle pump activation by neuromuscular electrical stimulation of the common peroneal nerve in the treatment of patients with venous leg ulcers: A position paper.  Int Wound J. 2024 Sep;21(9):e70040. doi: 10.1111/iwj.70040. PMID: 39223104; PMCID: PMC11368661. Link to Paper Tuson R, Metry A, Harding K . Cost-effectiveness analysis of the geko™ device (an NMES technology) in managing venous leg ulcers in UK healthcare settings. Int Wound J. 2024 Oct;21(10): e70048. doi: 10.1111/iwj.70048. PMID: 39396902; PMCID: PMC11471310   Link to Paper Sibbald, R.G.,   Geng , R.,   Slomovic , J.,   Stacey , M. The muscle pump activator device: From evidence to lived experiences.  Int Wound J. Volume 21, Issue 8 . 2024.   Link to Paper Bull RH, Clements D, Collarte AJ, Harding KG. The impact of a new intervention for venous leg ulcers: A within-patient controlled trial.  Int Wound J. 2023;1‐9. doi: 10.1111/iwj.14107 Link to Paper

  • In Memoriam: Anne Margaret Voll-Reitzel

    It is with heavy hearts that Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) acknowledges the passing of one of our former members, Anne Margaret Voll-Reitzel. Anne graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from McMaster University in 1987, and over the next 30 years, she dedicated herself to nursing with a focus on providing exceptional care. Anne later completed a Master’s in Clinical Sciences at Western University. In 2007, Anne completed the NSWOC Program (formerly known as ET-NEP). Her career culminated in her role as a Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (formerly called Enterostomal Therapist) at Health Sciences North in Sudbury. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Anne's family, friends, and colleagues. In lieu of flowers, donations in Anne's memory may be made to the Nipissing Serenity Hospice in North Bay, an organization close to her heart. Donations can be made here: Nipissing Serenity Hospice - Donate . For those who wish to read more about Anne’s life, please visit her obituary: Anne Margaret VOLL-REITZEL Obituary .

  • Celebrating Michelle Buffalo: A Leader in Indigenous Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Care

    Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC) is privileged to have remarkable leaders who shape the future of healthcare. Today, we shine a well-deserved spotlight on Michelle Buffalo, our Indigenous Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Health Core Program Leader, whose work continues to make a profound impact on Indigenous communities across Canada. In an inspiring feature published in Canadian Nurse , Michelle’s unique journey as a nurse and her deep commitment to serving Indigenous communities are highlighted. As a member of Alberta’s Samson Cree Nation, Michelle has dedicated her career to not only advancing wound, ostomy, and continence care but also to blending cultural sensitivity with specialized skills. Her work in remote communities like Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, where she works with the Nunee Health Board Society, reflects her relentless passion for bridging the gap in healthcare access. Through her work with NSWOCC's Indigenous Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Health Core Program, Michelle has advocated for better healthcare policies and helped create the Indigenous Wound, Ostomy and Continence Health Sharing Circle , which provides resources and education for both patients and healthcare providers. Michelle’s leadership, passion for wound care, and commitment to making healthcare more accessible to Indigenous communities are an inspiration to us all. Read the full article on Michelle’s journey here: First Nations Nurse Brings Wound, Ostomy Care to Indigenous Communities

  • Celebrating Dorace Ramage’s retirement from Perfuse Medtec Inc. & over 50 years in healthcare!

    Dorace graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1974 and spent over 35 years with London Health Sciences Centre including roles as Operating Room charge nurse in Vascular Surgery, and as an Educational Consultant at CSTAR (Canadian Surgical Technologies and Advanced Robotics). Dorace joined Perfuse in January of 2013 when the geko™ device was first used on humans in Canada.  These first uses were in cardiac surgery and transplant. Ultimately, the main focus ended up on wound therapy. She feverishly led the development of educational and clinical initiatives that ultimately lead the geko™ device to be recognized as a standard in wound care.  She has been involved in numerous oral and poster presentations, has co-authored many publications, and presented on the geko™ device at local, provincial and national conferences. Dorace has shared her expertise in training hundreds of clinicians in her role as Clinical and Educational consultant at Perfuse Medtec Inc. Dorace is sadly missed by our team, but we are so delighted that she will be able to spend more time with her children, grandchildren and her amazing husband John.

  • What is E-Stim for Wound Healing?

    E-Stim involves delivering a controlled electrical current directly to a wound or its surrounding tissues using electrodes, Silverlon dressings, and the Micro Z II stimulator. This therapy enhances the body’s natural healing process by improving local circulation, which helps keep the wound clean, deliver fresh nutrients, and promote the generation of new skin. Clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of E-Stim in promoting wound closure. E-Stim, when used in conjunction with the support of NSWOC nurses, is a preferred therapy under Ontario Health @ Home. Contact Maureen McNiece at McNiece TENS for an in-service, protocols, and studies.  m.mcniece@mcniecetens.ca   1-800-681-8367 519-681-8367 www.mcniecetens.ca

  • Recognizing March 31, 2025 as International Transgender Day of Visibility

    March 31st marks  International Transgender Day of Visibility , a time to celebrate the contributions of transgender individuals and acknowledge the challenges they continue to face. At NSWOCC, we are committed to fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) in wound, ostomy, and continence care. True inclusivity means ensuring that every individual—regardless of gender identity—receives respectful, informed, and equitable healthcare. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive community for all. Let’s continue working together toward a future where  everyone  feels seen, valued, and supported!  In recognition of this day, we are also highlighting Deanna Clatworthy’s workshop at our upcoming National Conference from May 21-25 2025 in Montreal, QC. Learn more and register for this important workshop below! Post-Surgical Care for Gender Diverse Patients and Common Complications of Gender Affirming Surgeries Date & Time Wednesday, May 21st | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Description This insightful session will cover common treatments used for gender dysphoria, their effects, and potential side effects. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of common health issues affecting gender diverse patients, including a thorough review of gender-affirming surgical procedures and the management of post-surgical complications. The workshop aims to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide inclusive and informed care for gender diverse patients. This workshop aligns with our IDEAs conference theme: Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility shared. It highlights the importance of specialized wound, ostomy, and continence care through an inclusive and diverse lens. Learning Objectives On completion of this workshop, participants will be able to: 1.  Identify medications commonly used for medical transition and the side effects that may occur, and how to support a patient who is experiencing negative side effects. 2.  Discuss common infections and health issues within the gender diverse community and understand how to treat them.  3.  Recognize gender affirming surgical procedures, common complications and how to support patients who are experiencing these complications to avoid wound healing       delays and other negative outcomes.  Meet the presenter: Deanna Clatworthy, MN, BScN, RN, NP(c) Deanna Clatworthy, is a clinical nurse specialist who specializes in HIV, sexual health and gender affirming care. She attended McMaster University where she completed her BScN and her Addiction Counselling diploma. She attended Western University for her Master in Nursing and is currently completing her Nurse Practitioner diploma there. She also recently completed a post-graduate diploma in Infectious Disease. Deanna is passionate about equitable, accessible and holistic healthcare for marginalized communities. Deanna led the development of two gender-affirming care clinics and has provided gender affirming care to over 1000 gender-diverse patients. Deanna attended GRS Montreal to train in post-surgical care and loves to share her niche knowledge and experience. Limited Spaces Available – Register Now! Pre-conference workshops have limited capacity, and spots are filling fast! If you plan to attend pre-conference workshops on Wednesday, May 21st, or post-conference workshops on Sunday, May 25th, ensure you select your workshops during registration. How to Add a Workshop to Your Registration Visit the registration page Click on a ticket category and log in using the email you previously used for registration. On the following screen (see below), select the appropriate tab: "Wed. Workshops 0900-1200" to add a morning workshop. "Wed. Workshops 1300-1700" to add an afternoon workshop. "Sun. Workshops 0830-1200" to add a Sunday workshop. Please only add tickets for workshops you plan to attend to ensure availability for other attendees. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact Troy at tcurtis@nswoc.ca . Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in providing specialized, inclusive care!

  • Introducing New Faces at Hollister: Jasmine Chan and Karen Spencer Join the Hollister Clinical Education Team

    As a global healthcare company, Hollister is committed to improving the lives of those who use our products. Our mission centres around providing exceptional products and services to our customers. Jasmine Chan has joined Hollister's Clinical Education Team as a full-time Clinical Support Specialist We are thrilled to introduce Jasmine Chan, who has joined Hollister's Education Team as a full-time Clinical Support Specialist In her new role, Jasmine will manage educational events, provide clinical support to associates and Secure Start/Customer Service Teams, and contribute to the implementation of new clinical programs that set Hollister apart as a valued business partner. Jasmine has begun her studies in the Nurses Specialized in Wound Ostomy and Continence Educational Program. She graduated from McMaster University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and has worked at Southlake Regional Health Centre. Additionally, she taught part-time at Georgian College as a Clinical Instructor. During the pandemic, Jasmine took on the role of Professional Practice Project Lead and Mentor, overseeing 100 externs in their daily tasks and duties. Since joining Hollister in June 2023, she has been dedicated to supporting clinicians and customers through the Secure Start program. Outside of work, Jasmine enjoys hot yoga, hiking, and spending time with friends. She resides in Newmarket with her husband, Ben. Karen Spencer, BN, NSWOC, IIWCC has joined our Clinical Education Team as Clinical Resource Manager Hollister Limited is thrilled to announce that Karen Spencer, BN, NSWOC, IIWCC has joined our Clinical Education Team as Clinical Resource Manager Karen brings over thirty years of dedicated experience in the field of ostomy care. She began her journey in surgical nursing and then earned her Enterostomal Therapy Nursing Certificate from the University of Toronto in 1989. Her extensive clinical background includes acute care and community roles in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she worked with the Manitoba Ostomy Program and St. Boniface Hospital. Additionally, Karen has contributed to the CAET Board in various capacities. In 2004, Karen joined Hollister as a Clinical Resource Manager in Canada. Her career then took her to the United States, where she assumed the role of Director of Global Clinical Education. In this position, Karen has had the privilege of collaborating with nurses worldwide. She has been instrumental in supporting research and developing educational materials and programs for both clinicians and patients, aimed at advancing the ostomy nursing profession and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with an ostomy. Karen's contributions to the field are well-recognized. She has published work on peristomal skin health and convexity and has shared her knowledge through lectures at national and international conferences. We are excited to welcome Karen back to our Canadian team and look forward to the invaluable insights and expertise she will bring to our clinical education initiatives. Karen is excited to reconnect with Canadian NSWOC nurses during her travels and at the upcoming NSWOC Conference. Let's give her a warm welcome back to Canada!

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