Hello, I’m Jennifer Werner, MSN, APRN, CWOCN-AP, FNP-BC, a Certified Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Advance Practice Nurse, and I’m thrilled to share my journey of attending WOCNext in person for the first time! With 11 years of experience in the WOC nursing field and a proud member of the WOCN® Society, I’m eager to share why attending WOCNext in person has left a lasting impression on me. Through my experience, I hope to ignite a spark in fellow nurses, encouraging them to embrace the enriching experiences and growth opportunities that WOCNext has to offer. Attending this conference in person for the first time was thrilling. Little did I know, it would be a journey of discovery, growth, and heartfelt connections.
My WOCNext Journey
My first encounter with WOCNext was when I attended a virtual event during the challenging COVID-19 era. The knowledge and online networking during this time ignited a spark in me. I challenged myself to create a Quality improvement project for my hospital system. My goal was to secure funding for my in-person attendance, knowing that presenting a poster would make me eligible for support from my facility.
My First WOCNext In-Person Experience
When I arrived at the WOCNext 2023 conference venue in Las Vegas, Nevada, I was greeted by well-decorated halls adorned with professionalism. I got an immediate sense of belonging to a large group of peers. It was a reassuring start to what promised to be an enlightening experience.
Throughout the conference, I was immersed in a treasure trove of knowledge. The sheer volume of options and wealth of evidence-based education available was exciting. WOCNext offers something for every interest and expertise level. From participating in lectures to thought-provoking discussions, I found myself eager to absorb as much as I could by learning first-hand. I encountered unexpected revelations that broadened my perspective.
Learning about Irritant Contact Dermatitis with a dedicated ICD-10 code and the use of convexity in the postoperative recovery phase are just a few eye-opening moments that highlight the relevance and depth of the topics covered at WOCNext. Throughout the event, I realized the impact WOCNext had on my professional growth. I was never interested in completing a Professional Growth Program (PGP) for recertification until I attended a session that gave me newfound excitement for completing my PGP submission. It’s a testament to the transformative power of the insights gained at WOCNext.
Among the multitude of experiences, one moment stands out—a personal encounter with Dorothy Doughty. Her genuine interest in how my daughter is doing, who has Spina Bifida and faces wounds, ostomies, and continence issues, validated the genuine connections forged at WOCNext.
Eager Anticipation
Although I can’t be there in person in 2024, my colleague is attending. I’m looking forward to learning the newfound knowledge he will bring back. WOCNext will be my go-to conference moving forward for current evidence-based practices and strengthening my skills as a WOC nurse.
Advice for Newcomers: Immerse Yourself in the Excitement of Knowledge
To those considering attending WOCNext for the first time, I offer some advice from my own experience. Seize every opportunity, engage in networking, and prioritize sessions most relevant to your practice. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of knowledge and camaraderie—it’s an experience like no other.
A Testimonial of Excellence
In summing up my first in-person WOCNext experience, I am filled with gratitude for the invaluable insights and connections I’ve gained. If you are a WOC nurse committed to delivering top-notch patient care, WOCNext is an all-encompassing conference to learn the latest evidence-based practices for you to take back and immerse in your practice. WOC nursing certification is the Gold Standard. This conference is in line with maintaining the standard we all strive for every day. It upholds the Gold Standard of WOC nursing, empowering professionals to elevate their practice and improve patient outcomes.
WOCNext 2024 is taking center stage June 9-12 in Cleveland, Ohio—the birthplace of WOC nursing. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to reconnect with your professional roots dating back to 1961, when Norma Gill and R.B. Turnbull, Jr., MD opened the world’s first School of Enterostomal Therapy at the Cleveland Clinic, what we refer to today as a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Education Program. LEARN MORE