Ostomy Management Refresher
Refresh your Ostomy care knowledge with our online course.
This online course will provide you with a review in order to sit for the certification examination.
Course Eligibility Details
This refresher course is only available to individuals who have completed the Ostomy Management course within the past two years.
If you intend to take the certification exam, a minimum of two years of full-time or four years of part-time wound care experience is required to be successful.
Before registering, confirm eligibility by emailing [email protected].
This course is designed as a review and does not provide continuing education credits.
Intended Audience
This course is intended for multiple professions including nurses, dietitians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals interested in wound care.
Accreditation Information
In support of improving patient care, Relias LLC is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
As a Jointly Accredited organization, Relias LLC is accredited to offer dietetic continuing education by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). The CDR is an associate member of Joint Accreditation for Interprofessional Continuing Education.
Completion of this RD/DTR profession-specific or IPCE activity awards CPEUs (1 IPCE credit=1 CPEU).
If the activity is dietetics related by not targeted to RDs or DTRs, CPEUs may be claimed which are commensurate with participation in contact hours (1 hour/60 minutes=1 CPEU).
RDs and DTRs are to select activity type 102 in their Activity logs. Performance Indicator selection is at the learner's discretion.
Relias LLC is a licensed physical therapy continuing Education sponsor (#216.000290) by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Certificates must be retained by the licensee for a period of 5 years after course completion. Please check with your state for prior approval.
Important Accreditation Notice for Occupational Therapists:
This course is not accredited for Continuing Education (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 examination, in accordance with their current standards.
Online Ostomy Refresher Tuition Rate
$297 WCEI Individual Alumni Rate
Examination fees: Fees are not included in the tuition rate. After registering for the course, you will be directed to complete the exam application and pay any exam fees.
Included with Tuition
- Self-paced learning with six months of access
- Learning aides: glossary, sample questions and more
- Exclusive access to resource materials
- Pre-exam certification review (course review)
- Nutrition and Wound Healing Supplement for RD/RDN
The WCEI Difference
What you get with WCEI courses
- 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.
Refresher Schedule
Upon purchasing the course you have 180 days to access and review all modules. After completing the online course, work with your selected credentialing board to schedule your certification exam at a testing center.
Course Schedule
Upon purchasing the online course, you have 180 days to complete all 22 sections at your pace. After completing the online course, work with your selected credentialing board to schedule your certification exam at a testing center.
Online Sections
Section 1: General Overview of Ostomy Care
Learning Objectives:
- Define ostomy and stoma.
- Differentiate between an incontinent diversion and a continent diversion.
- Relate how the practice of the Ostomy Management Specialist (OMS) may differ in select healthcare settings.
Section 2: Wound Healing
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate types of wound closure.
- Identify primary action(s) in each of the four phases of wound healing.
- Recall at least three benefits of moist wound healing.
- Relate at least three factors or conditions that can impair wound healing.
Section 3: Anatomy and Physiology of the GI System
Learning Objectives:
- State the function of the four layers of the alimentary canal.
- Discriminate between the locations and the functions of each structure of the alimentary canal from the mouth to the anus.
- Define the functions of the accessory organs.
Section 4: GI Ostomies
Learning Objectives:
- Discriminate between the types of GI incontinent ostomies.
- Differentiate between an end stoma, a loop stoma, and a double barrel stoma.
- Detail ideal stoma characteristics.
- Compare and contrast a Kock pouch and an ileoanal reservoir.
- Identify postoperative management of the patient with a GI ostomy.
Section 5: Gastrointestinal Disorders that May Require Ostomy Surgery
Learning Objectives:
- Contrast dynamic and adynamic bowel obstructions.
- Differentiate symptoms and diagnostic findings of ulcerative colitis from Crohn’s disease.
- Recall at least three extraintestinal manifestations associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
- List at least three medications commonly used for inflammatory bowel disease.
- Identify surgical interventions frequently used for colorectal cancer, abdominal trauma, and ruptured diverticulum.
Section 6: Anatomy and Physiology of the Urinary System
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the components of the upper urinary tract and the lower urinary tract.
- Recall at least three functions of the kidney.
- Outline the micturation process.
Section 7: Types of Urinary Ostomies
Learning Objectives:
- Contrast an ileal conduit and a ureterostomy.
- Differentiate between an Indiana pouch and a Mitrofanoff diversion.
- Relate the care of an orthotopic neobladder.
Section 8: Urinary Tract Disorders that May Require Ostomy Surgery
Learning Objectives:
- Identify at least three risk factors for bladder cancer.
- Differentiate between a segmental cystectomy and a radical cystectomy.
- Recall at least three interventions for interstitial cystitis.
- Relate the pathophysiology of neurogenic bladder.
Section 9: Adjustment to a Stoma
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the 4 phases of adjustment.
- Identify emotions that a new ostomy patient is likely to experience before and after the creation of a stoma or a continent diversion.
- State at least 3 specific interventions to assist the patient with a stoma with adaptation to the stoma.
Section 10: Stoma Assessment
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize key characteristics required for stomal and peristomal skin assessment.
- Demonstrate a stoma assessment.
Section 11: Stoma Siting
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the principles of stoma siting.
- Restate the steps of stoma siting procedure for optimal location on abdomen for a stoma.
Section 12: Stoma Pouching System
Learning Objectives:
- Pouching System and Accessory Products for Stoma Care: Outline the different types and indications of pouching systems and accessories used with stoma pouching systems.
- Classify ostomy pouching systems based on construction as one- or two-piece, closed end or drainable, and characteristics of the skin barriers.
- Demonstrate application, emptying, and removal of a cut to fit pouching system.
Section 13: Peristomal Skin Complications
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the etiology, identification, and treatment of 5 peri-stomal complications.
Section 14: Stoma Complications
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the etiology, identification, and treatment, both conservative and surgical, if appropriate, of 5 stomal complications.
Section 15: Fistula Management
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate between types of fistulas in terms of causative factors, pathophysiology, and principles of management.
Section 16: Special Ostomy Procedures
Learning Objectives:
- List indications, contraindications, and procedure steps for colostomy irrigation.
- Relate causes, symptoms, and interventions for ileostomy food blockage.
- Demonstrate the “crusting” procedure.
Section 17: Pouching System Assessment
Learning Objectives:
- Choose interventions for 3 pouching system challenges.
Section 18: Tubes
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the purpose, design, location in the intestine, methods of accessing and management of three enterostomal and three enterostomy tubes.
- Summarize the best evidence for preventing urinary catheter-related complications.
- State how to assess for, prevent, and manage four enteral tube complications.
Section 19: Management of the Pediatric Patient with an Ostomy
Learning Objectives:
- Identify conditions the pediatric patient may have that require a fecal or urinary diversion.
- Summarize the management of a pediatric patient with a urinary or fecal diversion.
Section 20: Patient Education
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the goals of pre-operative teaching, list what should be covered, and develop an individualized teaching plan for a patient based on an assessment of their learning needs.
- Demonstrate patient teaching methods for application, emptying and removal of a pouching system.
- Summarize the goals of post-operative teaching. List what should be covered and develop an individualized teaching plan based on an assessment of their learning needs.
Section 21: OMS Workbook
Section 22: OMS Final Exam
Supplementary Content:
All learners, regardless of onsite/live online/online self-paced should receive the same content. Self-paced lessons are uploaded for onsite/live online learners as a resource item. The PowerPoint presentations are identical to slides included in the self-paced lessons.
- Crossword Puzzles
- Match Up
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.
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.
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)
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.
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
This online course will provide you with a review in order to sit for the certification examination.
Course Eligibility Details
This refresher course is only available to individuals who have completed the Ostomy Management course within the past two years.
If you intend to take the certification exam, a minimum of two years of full-time or four years of part-time wound care experience is required to be successful.
Before registering, confirm eligibility by emailing [email protected].
This course is designed as a review and does not provide continuing education credits.
Certificates
Intended Audience
This course is intended for multiple professions including nurses, dietitians, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals interested in wound care.
Accreditation Information
In support of improving patient care, Relias LLC is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
As a Jointly Accredited organization, Relias LLC is accredited to offer dietetic continuing education by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). The CDR is an associate member of Joint Accreditation for Interprofessional Continuing Education.
Completion of this RD/DTR profession-specific or IPCE activity awards CPEUs (1 IPCE credit=1 CPEU).
If the activity is dietetics related by not targeted to RDs or DTRs, CPEUs may be claimed which are commensurate with participation in contact hours (1 hour/60 minutes=1 CPEU).
RDs and DTRs are to select activity type 102 in their Activity logs. Performance Indicator selection is at the learner's discretion.
Relias LLC is a licensed physical therapy continuing Education sponsor (#216.000290) by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Certificates must be retained by the licensee for a period of 5 years after course completion. Please check with your state for prior approval.
Important Accreditation Notice for Occupational Therapists:
This course is not accredited for Continuing Education (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 examination, in accordance with their current standards.
Tuition Cost
Online Ostomy Refresher Tuition Rate
$297 WCEI Individual Alumni Rate
Examination fees: Fees are not included in the tuition rate. After registering for the course, you will be directed to complete the exam application and pay any exam fees.
Included with Tuition
- Self-paced learning with six months of access
- Learning aides: glossary, sample questions and more
- Exclusive access to resource materials
- Pre-exam certification review (course review)
- Nutrition and Wound Healing Supplement for RD/RDN
The WCEI Difference
What you get with WCEI courses
- 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.
Schedule & Content
Refresher Schedule
Upon purchasing the course you have 180 days to access and review all modules. After completing the online course, work with your selected credentialing board to schedule your certification exam at a testing center.
Course Schedule
Upon purchasing the online course, you have 180 days to complete all 22 sections at your pace. After completing the online course, work with your selected credentialing board to schedule your certification exam at a testing center.
Online Sections
Section 1: General Overview of Ostomy Care
Learning Objectives:
- Define ostomy and stoma.
- Differentiate between an incontinent diversion and a continent diversion.
- Relate how the practice of the Ostomy Management Specialist (OMS) may differ in select healthcare settings.
Section 2: Wound Healing
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate types of wound closure.
- Identify primary action(s) in each of the four phases of wound healing.
- Recall at least three benefits of moist wound healing.
- Relate at least three factors or conditions that can impair wound healing.
Section 3: Anatomy and Physiology of the GI System
Learning Objectives:
- State the function of the four layers of the alimentary canal.
- Discriminate between the locations and the functions of each structure of the alimentary canal from the mouth to the anus.
- Define the functions of the accessory organs.
Section 4: GI Ostomies
Learning Objectives:
- Discriminate between the types of GI incontinent ostomies.
- Differentiate between an end stoma, a loop stoma, and a double barrel stoma.
- Detail ideal stoma characteristics.
- Compare and contrast a Kock pouch and an ileoanal reservoir.
- Identify postoperative management of the patient with a GI ostomy.
Section 5: Gastrointestinal Disorders that May Require Ostomy Surgery
Learning Objectives:
- Contrast dynamic and adynamic bowel obstructions.
- Differentiate symptoms and diagnostic findings of ulcerative colitis from Crohn’s disease.
- Recall at least three extraintestinal manifestations associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
- List at least three medications commonly used for inflammatory bowel disease.
- Identify surgical interventions frequently used for colorectal cancer, abdominal trauma, and ruptured diverticulum.
Section 6: Anatomy and Physiology of the Urinary System
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the components of the upper urinary tract and the lower urinary tract.
- Recall at least three functions of the kidney.
- Outline the micturation process.
Section 7: Types of Urinary Ostomies
Learning Objectives:
- Contrast an ileal conduit and a ureterostomy.
- Differentiate between an Indiana pouch and a Mitrofanoff diversion.
- Relate the care of an orthotopic neobladder.
Section 8: Urinary Tract Disorders that May Require Ostomy Surgery
Learning Objectives:
- Identify at least three risk factors for bladder cancer.
- Differentiate between a segmental cystectomy and a radical cystectomy.
- Recall at least three interventions for interstitial cystitis.
- Relate the pathophysiology of neurogenic bladder.
Section 9: Adjustment to a Stoma
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the 4 phases of adjustment.
- Identify emotions that a new ostomy patient is likely to experience before and after the creation of a stoma or a continent diversion.
- State at least 3 specific interventions to assist the patient with a stoma with adaptation to the stoma.
Section 10: Stoma Assessment
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize key characteristics required for stomal and peristomal skin assessment.
- Demonstrate a stoma assessment.
Section 11: Stoma Siting
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the principles of stoma siting.
- Restate the steps of stoma siting procedure for optimal location on abdomen for a stoma.
Section 12: Stoma Pouching System
Learning Objectives:
- Pouching System and Accessory Products for Stoma Care: Outline the different types and indications of pouching systems and accessories used with stoma pouching systems.
- Classify ostomy pouching systems based on construction as one- or two-piece, closed end or drainable, and characteristics of the skin barriers.
- Demonstrate application, emptying, and removal of a cut to fit pouching system.
Section 13: Peristomal Skin Complications
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the etiology, identification, and treatment of 5 peri-stomal complications.
Section 14: Stoma Complications
Learning Objectives:
- Recall the etiology, identification, and treatment, both conservative and surgical, if appropriate, of 5 stomal complications.
Section 15: Fistula Management
Learning Objectives:
- Differentiate between types of fistulas in terms of causative factors, pathophysiology, and principles of management.
Section 16: Special Ostomy Procedures
Learning Objectives:
- List indications, contraindications, and procedure steps for colostomy irrigation.
- Relate causes, symptoms, and interventions for ileostomy food blockage.
- Demonstrate the “crusting” procedure.
Section 17: Pouching System Assessment
Learning Objectives:
- Choose interventions for 3 pouching system challenges.
Section 18: Tubes
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the purpose, design, location in the intestine, methods of accessing and management of three enterostomal and three enterostomy tubes.
- Summarize the best evidence for preventing urinary catheter-related complications.
- State how to assess for, prevent, and manage four enteral tube complications.
Section 19: Management of the Pediatric Patient with an Ostomy
Learning Objectives:
- Identify conditions the pediatric patient may have that require a fecal or urinary diversion.
- Summarize the management of a pediatric patient with a urinary or fecal diversion.
Section 20: Patient Education
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the goals of pre-operative teaching, list what should be covered, and develop an individualized teaching plan for a patient based on an assessment of their learning needs.
- Demonstrate patient teaching methods for application, emptying and removal of a pouching system.
- Summarize the goals of post-operative teaching. List what should be covered and develop an individualized teaching plan based on an assessment of their learning needs.
Section 21: OMS Workbook
Section 22: OMS Final Exam
Supplementary Content:
All learners, regardless of onsite/live online/online self-paced should receive the same content. Self-paced lessons are uploaded for onsite/live online learners as a resource item. The PowerPoint presentations are identical to slides included in the self-paced lessons.
- Crossword Puzzles
- Match Up
FAQs
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.
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.
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)
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.
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
Certified Wound Care Marketing Specialist
Looking to increase your organization’s revenue potential, enhance your customer base, and become more competitive?
Diabetic Wound Management
An analysis of the disease process, focusing on prevention strategies, limb salvage, and the unique requirements of diabetic patients.
Skin + Wound Management
A comprehensive program covering wound assessment, treatment strategies, infection prevention techniques, and more.
What Others Say Matters
-
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 -
The credentials are important to me because it means that I've have earned the respect of my peers and the doctors. It has also increased my pay.
Judy G, LPN, WCC, CWCA, OMS