When should a clinician consider consulting a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse (WOCN)?

A clinician should consider consulting a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurse (WOCN) if the patient experiences complications that are not responding to standard care. This is a critical moment where specialized knowledge and expertise can greatly enhance patient outcomes. WOCNs are trained to handle complex situations involving ostomy care, such as issues with skin integrity, complications like peristomal infections or necrosis, and emotional support for patients navigating the challenges of living with an ostomy. Their in-depth understanding of both the physiological and psychosocial aspects of ostomy management makes them invaluable in addressing complications that standard care may not resolve.

While patient requests for information and ostomy pouch replacements are important aspects of care, these scenarios may not necessarily require the specialized intervention of a WOCN unless there are underlying complexities involved. Surgical procedures can also generally proceed without a WOCN's consultation unless specific complications are anticipated that would benefit from their expertise.