Keep Your Knowledge Current for Lasting Results
Maintain your competitive edge in wound care by taking WCEI's Diabetic Wound Management recertification course. Your certification is an investment in your career and the lives of your patients.
If your credential is through the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy (NAWCO), you can skip the certification exam if you complete the recertification course on-site or online.
Once you're registered, select a credentialing board, complete your recertification application, and pay the recertification fees. The credentialing board determines your eligibility.
Continuing education information
Continuing education (CE) and accreditation information may be found in the certificate section for individual courses.
Important accreditation notice for occupational therapists
This course isn't accredited for CE credit for occupational therapists. However, a certificate of completion will be issued upon successful completion of the course. This certificate may be submitted as documentation to fulfill eligibility requirements for the NAWCO certification exam, in accordance with their current standards.
Alumni Recertification Tuition Rate
$1,297 On-site
$797 Live online
$597 Online
The WCEI difference
As the only NAWCO-accredited provider of Diabetic Wound Care (DWC) education, WCEI offers these valuable benefits:
- Premium Content: Our course content is updated and reviewed by industry professionals at a minimum of every three years. We pride ourselves on having the most current, up to date course content in the industry.
- Learner Supportive Platform: Our wound care courses are hosted on the propriety Relias Live Learning Management System.
- Flexible Payment Options: We offer a variety of flexible payment options through Affirm.
- Continuous Learning: We provide continuing education throughout your career.
Learn more about how WCEI stands out from our competitors.
Included with tuition
- Live instructor-led education (on-site and live online)
- 90-day access to the online course (Students in a live, online class have access 29 days before the first day of class.)
- Contact hours upon completion (Visit the Certificates section.)
- WCEI Diabetic Skin and Wound Care Management course workbook
- Pre-exam certification review (on-site and live online)
- Exam prep tools, including end-of-lesson knowledge quizzes
- Networking lunches at most locations (on-site)
Ongoing education
- Nurses: Free one-year Nurse.com Standard or Premium APRN subscription
- Physical therapists, occupational therapists, or dietitians: Free one-year subscription to Relias Academy
- Physicians: Access to free CMEs on FreeCME.com
Online recertification schedule
Once you begin the first online module, you have six months to complete all 13 modules at your own pace.
On-site schedule
Four-day course
| Days 1–4 | 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Classroom training |
| Day 5 | 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. |
For your convenience, the NAWCO administers the certification exam at most course locations the day after the course concludes.
Contact NAWCO at 877-922-6292 for exam-related questions.
Learning modules
- Section 1 Foundations of Diabetes Management
- Section 2 Neuropathy
- Section 3 Cutaneous Aspects of Diabetes
- Section 4 Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Wound Healing
- Section 5 Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam
- Section 6 Diabetic Foot Ulcer Infection
- Section 7 Principles of Wound Management
- Section 8 Topical Wound Management
- Section 9 Treatment Diabetic Foot Ulcers
- Section 10 Adjunctive Therapies Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment
- Section 11 Treatment of Charcot Neuropathic Osteoarthropathy
- Section 12 Offloading the Diabetic Foot
- Section 13 Nutrition, Depression and Pain
- Section 14 Peripheral Arterial Disease and Diabetes
- Section 15 Amputation and Limb Care
- Section 16 Care of Skin and Nails Neuropathic Foot
- Section 17 Interdisciplinary Concepts
Learning objectives
- Describe the difference between type I and type II diabetes.
- Discuss overall epidemiology of diabetes and incidence of diabetic foot ulcers.
- Discuss the basic anatomy and physiology of the foot.
- Describe the gait cycle.
- Identify two of the major functions of normal gait.
- List the six clinical presentations of diabetic neuropathy.
- List the neuropathic pain descriptors of distal symmetrical sensorimotor polyneuropathy.
- Differentiate characteristics of somatic and autonomic nervous system.
- Identify five components of a comprehensive diabetes foot exam.
- Summarize risk factors, causes and classification of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).
- Name and explain characteristics of at least three common skin complications associated with diabetes.
- Discuss overall effects of diabetes and impaired wound healing.
- Classify diabetic foot infections and choose treatments based on this classification.
- Summarize assessment findings and treatment recommendations for diabetic foot ulcer complicated by osteomyelitis.
- Explain the theory of moist wound healing.
- Identify five factors which enhance or impede the wound healing process.
- Identify five different dressing categories for topical wound management.
- Select safe topical treatment options based upon wound assessment and goal of wound care.
- Select appropriate diabetic foot ulcer treatments and interventions based upon wound characteristics and goal of treatment.
- Demonstrate procedure for conservative sharp debridement.
- Explain the rationale for offloading and footwear in the patient with neuropathy.
- Distinguish at what point in the diabetic wound one should consider “adjuvant therapy".
- Explain the importance of nutritional interventions and glucose control for the wounded diabetic.
- Describe and differentiate examples of diabetes related distress and diabetes associated depression.
- Define two clinical terms associated with pain.
- Identify four characteristics of peripheral arterial disease.
- Summarize types of pain and potential complications experienced post-amputation.
- Demonstrate application of total contact cast.
- Summarize basic nail and skin care recommendations for the person with diabetes.
- Describe three interventions or methods to assist patient in compliance with care plan.
- Demonstrate procedure for trimming and filing of toenails.
- List three types of adult learners and describe one example of each.
- Discuss importance of evidence based standards of care and specify examples of two diabetes associated practice guidelines.
I’m worried about the cost of the course.
Investing in your education is a big decision. That’s why we offer flexible financing options through Affirm and employer reimbursement guidance to help make certification more accessible. Many of our learners have successfully received financial support from their employers — our team can help you build a case for funding. (See this blog)
What impact on my salary would a wound care certification have?
The salary for wound care nurses varies based on factors like geographic location, education, and certification. The average base hourly rate for a wound care nurse is currently $40.61 as of 2023 according to Indeed. This translates to around $95,314 annually based on the same data.
I don’t have time to take the course.
Your schedule can be demanding, which is why we offer multiple learning formats to fit your needs so you can balance your education with work and life responsibilities. Our on-site and live online courses offer deep learning over four days, while our online self-paced course let’s you learn at your own pace over six months.
What does it mean to be wound care certified?
Being wound care certified means more than just having letters after your name. It means you’re committed to continuous learning and providing excellent care. You develop an in-depth clinical knowledge and proficiency in current standards of care versus existing trends. You stay current on the latest wound care trends and products, and you remain dedicated to using evidence-based practices to give patients a better quality of life.
Will certification actually help my career?
Studies show that certified nurses are preferred over non-certified nurses for job opportunities and promotions. Many of our alumni have reported salary increases up to 20%, new leadership roles, and greater professional recognition after certification. Additionally, employers highly value wound care, diabetic wound care, or ostomy credentials, as they demonstrate a commitment to excellence in patient care.
Will I really be prepared for the exam?
Absolutely! Our courses are designed to build confidence in both clinical practice and exam success. In fact, 90% of WCEI alumni reported they felt prepared for their certification exam after taking our course, and 97% have successfully earned their certification. Our alumni consistently praise our comprehensive course materials, expert instructors, and interactive study tools as key factors in their success. Plus, if you don’t pass the exam, we stand by you with our Success Commitment — providing six months of free course access so you can continue preparing for the exam and reach your goal.
Do I meet the eligibility requirements?
Each certification has different eligibility requirements, and we’re happy to walk you through them! The good news is that WCEI offers multiple certification pathways, including courses that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact us — we’ll help you find the best path to certification based on your credentials and experience.
I’m already trained in wound care. Why does certification matter?
Having wound care training is valuable, but certification takes your expertise to the next level—providing professional credibility, career advancement opportunities, and a clear demonstration of your skills and dedication to excellence in wound care to your employer, colleagues, and patients. WCEI education prepares you for NAWCO and ABWM certification—leaders in wound care credentialing in the U.S. So no matter where your career takes you, your certification will be a valuable credential that is nationally recognized and respected, setting you apart in the field of wound care.
Overview
Keep Your Knowledge Current for Lasting Results
Maintain your competitive edge in wound care by taking WCEI's Diabetic Wound Management recertification course. Your certification is an investment in your career and the lives of your patients.
If your credential is through the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy (NAWCO), you can skip the certification exam if you complete the recertification course on-site or online.
Once you're registered, select a credentialing board, complete your recertification application, and pay the recertification fees. The credentialing board determines your eligibility.
Certificates
Continuing education information
Continuing education (CE) and accreditation information may be found in the certificate section for individual courses.
Important accreditation notice for occupational therapists
This course isn't accredited for CE credit for occupational therapists. However, a certificate of completion will be issued upon successful completion of the course. This certificate may be submitted as documentation to fulfill eligibility requirements for the NAWCO certification exam, in accordance with their current standards.
Tuition Cost
Alumni Recertification Tuition Rate
$1,297 On-site
$797 Live online
$597 Online
The WCEI difference
As the only NAWCO-accredited provider of Diabetic Wound Care (DWC) education, WCEI offers these valuable benefits:
- Premium Content: Our course content is updated and reviewed by industry professionals at a minimum of every three years. We pride ourselves on having the most current, up to date course content in the industry.
- Learner Supportive Platform: Our wound care courses are hosted on the propriety Relias Live Learning Management System.
- Flexible Payment Options: We offer a variety of flexible payment options through Affirm.
- Continuous Learning: We provide continuing education throughout your career.
Learn more about how WCEI stands out from our competitors.
Included with tuition
- Live instructor-led education (on-site and live online)
- 90-day access to the online course (Students in a live, online class have access 29 days before the first day of class.)
- Contact hours upon completion (Visit the Certificates section.)
- WCEI Diabetic Skin and Wound Care Management course workbook
- Pre-exam certification review (on-site and live online)
- Exam prep tools, including end-of-lesson knowledge quizzes
- Networking lunches at most locations (on-site)
Ongoing education
- Nurses: Free one-year Nurse.com Standard or Premium APRN subscription
- Physical therapists, occupational therapists, or dietitians: Free one-year subscription to Relias Academy
- Physicians: Access to free CMEs on FreeCME.com
Schedule & Content
Online recertification schedule
Once you begin the first online module, you have six months to complete all 13 modules at your own pace.
On-site schedule
Four-day course
| Days 1–4 | 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Classroom training |
| Day 5 | 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. |
For your convenience, the NAWCO administers the certification exam at most course locations the day after the course concludes.
Contact NAWCO at 877-922-6292 for exam-related questions.
Learning modules
- Section 1 Foundations of Diabetes Management
- Section 2 Neuropathy
- Section 3 Cutaneous Aspects of Diabetes
- Section 4 Diabetic Foot Ulcers and Wound Healing
- Section 5 Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam
- Section 6 Diabetic Foot Ulcer Infection
- Section 7 Principles of Wound Management
- Section 8 Topical Wound Management
- Section 9 Treatment Diabetic Foot Ulcers
- Section 10 Adjunctive Therapies Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment
- Section 11 Treatment of Charcot Neuropathic Osteoarthropathy
- Section 12 Offloading the Diabetic Foot
- Section 13 Nutrition, Depression and Pain
- Section 14 Peripheral Arterial Disease and Diabetes
- Section 15 Amputation and Limb Care
- Section 16 Care of Skin and Nails Neuropathic Foot
- Section 17 Interdisciplinary Concepts
Learning objectives
- Describe the difference between type I and type II diabetes.
- Discuss overall epidemiology of diabetes and incidence of diabetic foot ulcers.
- Discuss the basic anatomy and physiology of the foot.
- Describe the gait cycle.
- Identify two of the major functions of normal gait.
- List the six clinical presentations of diabetic neuropathy.
- List the neuropathic pain descriptors of distal symmetrical sensorimotor polyneuropathy.
- Differentiate characteristics of somatic and autonomic nervous system.
- Identify five components of a comprehensive diabetes foot exam.
- Summarize risk factors, causes and classification of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).
- Name and explain characteristics of at least three common skin complications associated with diabetes.
- Discuss overall effects of diabetes and impaired wound healing.
- Classify diabetic foot infections and choose treatments based on this classification.
- Summarize assessment findings and treatment recommendations for diabetic foot ulcer complicated by osteomyelitis.
- Explain the theory of moist wound healing.
- Identify five factors which enhance or impede the wound healing process.
- Identify five different dressing categories for topical wound management.
- Select safe topical treatment options based upon wound assessment and goal of wound care.
- Select appropriate diabetic foot ulcer treatments and interventions based upon wound characteristics and goal of treatment.
- Demonstrate procedure for conservative sharp debridement.
- Explain the rationale for offloading and footwear in the patient with neuropathy.
- Distinguish at what point in the diabetic wound one should consider “adjuvant therapy".
- Explain the importance of nutritional interventions and glucose control for the wounded diabetic.
- Describe and differentiate examples of diabetes related distress and diabetes associated depression.
- Define two clinical terms associated with pain.
- Identify four characteristics of peripheral arterial disease.
- Summarize types of pain and potential complications experienced post-amputation.
- Demonstrate application of total contact cast.
- Summarize basic nail and skin care recommendations for the person with diabetes.
- Describe three interventions or methods to assist patient in compliance with care plan.
- Demonstrate procedure for trimming and filing of toenails.
- List three types of adult learners and describe one example of each.
- Discuss importance of evidence based standards of care and specify examples of two diabetes associated practice guidelines.
FAQs
I’m worried about the cost of the course.
Investing in your education is a big decision. That’s why we offer flexible financing options through Affirm and employer reimbursement guidance to help make certification more accessible. Many of our learners have successfully received financial support from their employers — our team can help you build a case for funding. (See this blog)
What impact on my salary would a wound care certification have?
The salary for wound care nurses varies based on factors like geographic location, education, and certification. The average base hourly rate for a wound care nurse is currently $40.61 as of 2023 according to Indeed. This translates to around $95,314 annually based on the same data.
I don’t have time to take the course.
Your schedule can be demanding, which is why we offer multiple learning formats to fit your needs so you can balance your education with work and life responsibilities. Our on-site and live online courses offer deep learning over four days, while our online self-paced course let’s you learn at your own pace over six months.
What does it mean to be wound care certified?
Being wound care certified means more than just having letters after your name. It means you’re committed to continuous learning and providing excellent care. You develop an in-depth clinical knowledge and proficiency in current standards of care versus existing trends. You stay current on the latest wound care trends and products, and you remain dedicated to using evidence-based practices to give patients a better quality of life.
Will certification actually help my career?
Studies show that certified nurses are preferred over non-certified nurses for job opportunities and promotions. Many of our alumni have reported salary increases up to 20%, new leadership roles, and greater professional recognition after certification. Additionally, employers highly value wound care, diabetic wound care, or ostomy credentials, as they demonstrate a commitment to excellence in patient care.
Will I really be prepared for the exam?
Absolutely! Our courses are designed to build confidence in both clinical practice and exam success. In fact, 90% of WCEI alumni reported they felt prepared for their certification exam after taking our course, and 97% have successfully earned their certification. Our alumni consistently praise our comprehensive course materials, expert instructors, and interactive study tools as key factors in their success. Plus, if you don’t pass the exam, we stand by you with our Success Commitment — providing six months of free course access so you can continue preparing for the exam and reach your goal.
Do I meet the eligibility requirements?
Each certification has different eligibility requirements, and we’re happy to walk you through them! The good news is that WCEI offers multiple certification pathways, including courses that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact us — we’ll help you find the best path to certification based on your credentials and experience.
I’m already trained in wound care. Why does certification matter?
Having wound care training is valuable, but certification takes your expertise to the next level—providing professional credibility, career advancement opportunities, and a clear demonstration of your skills and dedication to excellence in wound care to your employer, colleagues, and patients. WCEI education prepares you for NAWCO and ABWM certification—leaders in wound care credentialing in the U.S. So no matter where your career takes you, your certification will be a valuable credential that is nationally recognized and respected, setting you apart in the field of wound care.
Additional Wound Care Courses
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Skin + Wound Management
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What Others Say Matters
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I've been working in the Wound and Ostomy Field since I obtained my WCC. As the full time Wound Ostomy Team member (working with two WOCNs), I've been told on numerous occasions from physicians that I'm considered a colleague. I've won over even the hardest physicians with my assessment, treatment, and skills! Nothing feels better than earning that kind of respect. Thank you to WCEI for opening the door! I just stepped though, and my life has been changed forever!
Rachel P, RN, CWCS, DAPWC, WCC -
It means a lot for me to have that credential behind my name. It means that physicians and other nurses see me as an expert. I'm now a go-to person when it comes to all things wounds.
Missy W, RN, WCC, OMS, Wound Program Director