Advanced Practice Certification

For more than 30 years, over 5,000 dedicated nurses have chosen to certify in wound, ostomy, continence and foot care nursing through the WOCNCB. The WOCNCB® offers an advanced practice nursing (APN) certification in the wound, ostomy, and/or continence specialty. The AP credential is one way you can demonstrate your advanced specialty knowledge and your commitment to continued growth in the WOCN profession.

If you are pursuing this credential to meet regulatory requirements, it is advised that you contact your state board of nursing to determine if this will meet those regulatory requirements and to determine how this will benefit your advanced practice specialty role. You may also wish to check with your employer regarding the internal practice guidelines.

Historical Background

The AP certification was developed in response to many WOC nurses who voiced an interest in an advanced level credential. This certification demonstrates contributions to the art and science of WOC Nursing. The advanced practice credential validates personal achievement and recognition of advanced knowledge in the WOC specialty. It may be used in seeking advanced nursing licensure.

A significant variance in licensure requirements for Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) exists among the states; the WOCNCB cannot guarantee that the AP certification will meet licensure requirements in every state. The National Council State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has drafted an Interstate APN Compact Agreement for consideration by states that accept the RN Compact requirements; the Interstate APN Compact Agreement can be accessed via the NCSBN website at www.ncsbn.org. Candidates for AP certification are encouraged to discuss APN licensure requirements with their State Boards of Nursing.

The WOCNCB is a leader in the utilization of the Professional Growth Program, for recertification of CWOCNs at the entry level. The use of a professional portfolio for demonstration of competency is psychometrically sound and legally defensible. The portfolio methodology of certification has gained credibility in both professional and consumer discussions on the issue of the protection of public safety.

The WOCNCB is proud to offer the new AP certification as a means of demonstrating competency in the advanced practice specialty role. Good luck in your pursuit of this credential! If you have additional questions, please contact the WOCN Certification Board office at 1-888-496-2622 or place questions on Ask the Board.