Clinical Nurse Specialist, Wound & Ostomy - UHN, Toronto

About the Role

As a Wound and Ostomy Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, part of University Health Network (UHN), you will serve as an advanced practice registered nurse providing expert clinical guidance and support in the care of patients with complex wounds, ostomies, and disease or treatment-related skin conditions. This role has a specific focus on oncology-related wounds, ensuring specialised care for cancer patients.

The CNS collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate care strategies for patients undergoing cancer treatment who are at risk for or affected by skin integrity issues. This includes managing surgical wounds, malignant wounds, pressure injuries, radiation dermatitis, and ostomy care. You will play a pivotal role in maintaining skin integrity, promoting healing, wound-related symptom management, preventing infection, and improving the overall quality of life for patients. This crucial role at UHN helps in advancing patient-centred care, clinical education, and program excellence, contributing to policy development and mentoring nursing staff.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Assess and evaluate patients’ wounds to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
• Develop and implement individualized wound care plans.
• Clean and dress wounds, perform debridement and other wound care procedures as required.
• Monitor and document patient progress, updating treatment plans as necessary.
• Educate patients and their families on wound care best practices and infection prevention.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including physicians and other healthcare professionals, to optimize patient care.
• Stay updated with the latest wound care research, techniques, and products.
• Manage wound care supplies and ensure their availability.
• Provide emotional support and education to patients and their families.
• Conduct regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and make necessary adjustments to care plans.

Qualifications

To excel in this Clinical Nurse Specialist role, candidates must meet the following essential requirements and possess a range of preferred experience and skills:

• Current certificate of registration from the College of Nurses of Ontario.
• Completion of a Master’s Degree in Nursing or a recognized equivalent.
• Current certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support (required).

Preferred qualifications and skills include:

• Advanced nursing practice expertise.
• 3-5 years of experience in oncology nursing, preferably with wound/ostomy care experience.
• Certification in wound care.
• Certification in Oncology Nursing.
• Membership in relevant professional organizations (e.g., RNAO, CANO).
• Program planning, development, implementation, and evaluation methodology skills.
• Experience with clinical research and data collection methodologies.
• Eligibility for cross-appointment to an academic institution.
• Knowledge of patient-reported outcomes and quality improvement methodologies.
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and time management skills.
• Proficiency in utilizing information technology and data management tools.
• Excellent coaching and mentoring skills.

Why You'll Love It Here at UHN

Joining University Health Network (UHN) means becoming part of a world-class healthcare organization dedicated to transforming lives and communities through excellence in care, discovery, and learning. UHN fosters a collaborative, innovative environment that supports professional growth and continuous learning, allowing you to make a significant impact on the lives of patients and families.

In addition to working alongside some of the most talented and inspiring healthcare professionals, UHN offers a comprehensive range of benefits and perks, designed to provide value throughout your career:

• Competitive offer packages.
• Government organization and a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP).
• Close access to Transit and UHN shuttle service.
• A flexible work environment.
• Opportunities for development and promotions within a large organization.
• Additional perks, including multiple corporate discounts (travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, auto insurance discounts, on-site gyms, etc.).