I have to admit that my passion for wound care came unexpectedly. While working as a visiting nurse in the community, I was constantly faced with dilemmas and challenges around acute and chronic wounds. I saw the negative impact wounds had on individuals, especially those who were dependent on others for care. I recognized significant gaps in the general skillset of frontline workers, who are in essence the first point of wound prevention (after patients and family members). I learned that frontline caregivers are not provided with enough educational tools to build this skillset and learn how to use it. I discovered a whole new world of nursing in this area and my desire to educate others in this field has only become stronger over the years.

Back while I was still in nursing school, I chose to work as a Personal Support Worker in a long-term care facility for almost 4 years before beginning my nursing role. I am very proud of this experience because it has taught me that:

• Dignity and respect are the principles of caring relationships
• Behind every illness is a person who deserves compassion and empathy
• Every day we make a choice to positively impact the lives of our patients
• As health care providers, we do not only enter into the home of our patients, we enter into their lives and in some cases, become closer than family.

I know that PSWs are not only the “eyes and ears” of our healthcare, they are also the heart! It is precisely for this reason that I decided to develop a specially tailored course to advance their knowledge and confidence when dealing with skin-related challenges so that they can better support, educate and promote the well-being of their patients.

Thank you for improving the health outcomes of those you care for as you invest in yourself!

I wish you a fulfilling journey as you enter the world of wound prevention!
(caution: it’s addictive!)