Developing a Wound Management Orientation Program Using Evidence-Based Guidelines

Staff development specialists and certified wound, ostomy, continence nurses must be leaders in the design of orientation programs that will assist nurses new to the practice of home health care develop wound care management skills. An orientation developed on evidence-based practice is essential to ensure quality, safe patient outcomes, and positive fiscal outcomes. This article describes the basic elements essential to a comprehensive orientation and suggests several models to assist the orientee in developing competency in wound care.