Certified Ostomy Care Nurse – Advanced Practice – COCN-AP (WOCNCB)
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: August 2019
OVERVIEW
Certification Description
The Certified Ostomy Care Nurse-Advanced Practice (COCN-AP) certification certifies that an RN has the advanced education and skill level to care for patients who may be having issues with their ostomy (an artificial opening in an organ of the body). Nurses with this certification specialize in the assessment, evaluation and development of care plans for this patient population.
Nurses with this advanced specialty credential may have career advancement opportunities and higher pay that other nurses may not be eligible for.
Skills Focus
The certification focuses on the following areas:
- Knowledge of performing initial assessments
- Understanding of how to collect a complete patient history
- Competency working with differential diagnoses
- Capability to perform assessments related to complications from stomas
- Willingness to educate patients and promote healthier lifestyles
- Familiarity with quality of practice and ethical concerns
- Ability to use evidence-based research to help further the specialty
Exam Objectives
Exam Details
- Issuing Organization: Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing Certification Board (WOCNCB)
- Prerequisites: Applicant must be a current RN or APN; applicant must have a master of science in nursing degree or higher; applicant must document APN education by submitting documentation such as transcripts, diploma, current certification, current licensure or letter from MSN program; must have completed 1500 clinical hours over the previous 5 years; applicant must meet all education and eligibility requirements as documented in the exam handbook
- Questions: 120 (110 scored)
- Time: 120 minutes
- Cost: Cost: $395
- Re-certification and certification renewal: Every 5 years
- Exam Outline and Certification Handbook
Other relevant details: Exams are administered through CASTLE Worldwide, Inc testing centers
COCN-AP (WOCNCB) Careers
Certified Ostomy Care Nurse Careers
Jobs you can get with a COCN-AP (WOCNCB) certification (additional requirements may apply):
- Nurse Practitioner
- Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Advanced Practice Nurse
- Certified Ostomy Care Nurse (COCN)
Salary (Base Level)
A specialty certification may not only increase your employability, but may increase your earnings potential as well. Keep in mind that your actual salary can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Reference salary for the Nurse Practitioner (NP) shown. Salary based on 2019 data.
National average per year: $113,930
National average per hour: $54.78
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
COCN-AP (WOCNCB) Training
Exam Preparation
- Study and review Exam Handbook
- Review the book and study resources suggested by the WOCNCB
- Take the WOCNCB Self Assessment Exam (SAE)
- Take practice tests
- Study from exam review books
- Review flashcards
Important: This is not a complete list of all certification training and learning options available. Remember to thoroughly research and choose study materials that fit your learning style and needs. This step is crucial to help you succeed in your certification exam.
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