Wound care is an essential aspect of nursing, particularly for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) who work directly with patients in certain healthcare settings. LPNs/LVNs are often responsible for providing wound care to patients under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. To ensure they are adequately prepared to handle the complexities of wound care, LPNs/LVNs can pursue specialized wound care certification. Let’s review the best wound care certification options for LPNs/LVNs.
Wound care certification for LPNs/LVNs
LPNs/LVNs who wish to advance their knowledge and skills in wound care can benefit from pursuing specialized certification. Wound care certification programs are designed to provide nurses with in-depth training in the assessment, treatment, and management of various wound types. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including wound assessment, wound healing, dressings, infection control, legal aspects of care, and patient education. By obtaining wound care certification, LPNs/LVNs can demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality care to patients with acute and chronic wounds.
Best wound care certification options for LPNs/LVNs
When considering wound care certification options, look for programs that are recognized within the healthcare industry and with national accreditation. The following are some of the most reputable wound care certification options for LPNs/LVNs:
National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy (NAWCO)
NAWCO offers the Wound Care Certified (WCC) and Ostomy Management Specialist (OMS) certifications for healthcare professionals, including LPNs/LVNs. The WCC program focuses on wound assessment, wound treatment, and wound management, while the OMS program focuses on ostomy care, including assessment, ostomy supplies, and patient education. LPNs/LVNs who complete these programs will be well equipped to provide comprehensive wound and ostomy care to patients in different healthcare settings.
American Board of Wound Management (ABWM)
The ABWM offers the Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA) credential for healthcare professionals, including LPNs/LVNs. The CWCA program covers a broad range of wound care topics, including wound assessment, wound treatment, and wound healing. LPNs/LVNs who complete the CWCA program will have a solid understanding of wound care principles and practices, allowing them to deliver effective care to wound care patients.
Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification Board (WOCNCB)
WOCNCB offers the Wound Treatment Associate-Certified (WTA-C) credential for LPNs/LVNs seeking to specialize in wound care. The WTA-C program covers basic wound management and pressure injury prevention and allows LPNs/LVNs to practice wound care under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional, such as a wound, ostomy, and continence nurse (WOCN).
Why choose WCEI for wound care certification preparation
If you’re considering pursuing wound care certification, consider the Wound Care Education Institute (WCEI) as a qualified and accredited source for wound care and ostomy certification preparation. As a recognized leader in wound care education, WCEI offers comprehensive certification review courses and educational resources designed to meet the specific needs of healthcare professionals, including LPNs/LVNs. WCEI's Skin and Wound Management, Diabetic Wound Management, and Ostomy Management courses provide thorough and practical education, equipping LPNs/LVNs with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their roles.
WCEI's courses have several key benefits for LPNs/LVNs:
- Comprehensive curriculum: The course programs cover a wide range of wound care topics, including wound assessment, wound treatment, infection control, legal defensibility, and patient education. Those who complete the program will have a solid foundation in wound care principles and practices. WCEI’s courses are based upon current standards of care.
- Flexibility: Courses are designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working nurses. The programs are available in both in-person and online formats, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your needs.
- Educational support: WCEI provides ongoing educational support to LPNs/LVNs who are seeking wound care certification. This support includes access to wound care experts via on-site courses and events, such as Wild on Wounds, as well as resources and tools to help LPNs/LVNs apply their knowledge in real-world settings. For alumni of WCEI’s courses and programs, there is a Facebook group called Wound Care Rocks, where members can share ideas and insights on treatment and wound management.
The field of wound care is continuously evolving, with new research and techniques emerging regularly. Regardless of the certification program you choose, remember that wound care is a specialized field that requires a commitment to continuous learning. Therefore, maintaining your certification and staying updated with the latest practices is just as important as obtaining your initial certification.
Wound care certification can significantly enhance your nursing practice, especially as an LPN/LVN. Not only does it expand your knowledge and skills in wound care, but it also increases your marketability as a healthcare professional. With various courses and educational resources like the ones offered by WCEI, there are plenty of options available to achieve your wound care certification. So explore these options, and take the next step in your nursing career.
Ready to get wound care certified?
At WCEI, we help you prepare for your wound care certification exams with courses on Skin & Wound Management, Diabetic Wound Care, and Ostomy Management. View our list of courses to start your journey toward becoming a certified wound care professional.