The steps you will have to take to become a wound ostomy nurse may vary based upon the region in which you live. In general, however, you will have to complete a nurse education program and pass a nurse licensing exam to pursue this career. Some employers prefer nurses with a specific level of education for this job, such as those with bachelor's degrees, and many prefer nurses who have received certifications from a wound ostomy nurse certification agency. You will also need training in the proper care of ostomies, but you can typically get this training as a working nurse. Many employers prefer to hire candidates who have previous wound ostomy experience, and you may also need experience or wound ostomy training to earn certification.
When you want to become a wound ostomy nurse, your first step will likely involve graduating from high school or earning a jurisdiction-accepted equivalent diploma. One of these credentials is typically required for entry into a nurse education program. With this credential secure, you will then have to enroll in a nurse education program that will prepare you for becoming a registered nurse. There are some registered nursing programs that end with the granting of an associate's degree. Many employers, however, prefer wound ostomy nurses who have earned bachelor's degrees, so you may do well to enroll in a four-year program at a college or university instead.
Once you have completed a nurse education program, you will most likely have to take an exam to earn nurse licensing before you can become a wound ostomy nurse. The exam you take may depend on your jurisdiction but typically is standardized. Your nursing education should prepare you well for passing a nurse licensing exam, but you can also find preparation guides to help you study. When you pass your jurisdiction's nurse licensing exam, you can then seek work as a registered nurse.
Many employers also prefer to hire nurses who have earned certification in this specialty. Certification in wound ostomy is typically voluntary, and criteria for certification may vary depending in the certifying body. In many cases, however, you will need a registered nurse license, bachelor's degree, and proof that you have either completed an approved wound ostomy education program, gained substantial experience in the specialty, or completed a significant number of related college course credits after earning your bachelor's degree. Once you've met these requirements, you can typically take the exam for certification.
