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In summer 2023, the Nurse Specializing in Wound Ostomy & Continence shifted roles, creating a gap in patient access to wound and ostomy care at Colchester East Hants Health Centre (CEHHC) in Truro. Licensed practical nurses Catherine Campbell and Bria Harper expressed interest in addressing this need and expanding their wound care expertise. In response, the ambulatory care team collaborated with the CEHHC Foundation to support them in enrolling for the Skin Wellness Associate Nurse (SWAN) program through the Wound Ostomy Continence Institute.
Campbell and Harper successfully completed their SWAN certification and are putting their learning into practice! They now provide comprehensive wound, ostomy and continence services for both inpatients and outpatients, working collaboratively with Interprofessional Practice and Learning, primary care providers and registered nurses.
An intensive care unit nurse highlighted the efficiency and accessibility of the wound care team, emphasizing the collaborative, multidisciplinary and supportive approach to wound care at CEHHC. “The length of time from consultation to the patient being seen is extremely fast. There is a sense of comfort among teaam members, everyone feels like we can approach the wound care team, ask questions or call any time.”
The impact of their services was highlighted by the heartfelt words of a patient who had struggled with a chronic wound for 17 years. Eagerly anticipating her "walking papers", she expressed gratitude for the miraculous transformation observed under the care of wound care nurses. She credits their support as a lifeline, acknowledging the care she received kept her away from the "slippery slope that invites depression."
Thank you to the CEHHC Foundation for supporting both patient care and the professional development of our healthcare team.
Photo of (L-R) LPNs Catherine Campbell and Bria Harper celebrating their SWAN certification.