Enterostomal therapy nursing is a specialized field of healthcare that focuses on the care and management of patients with ostomies, wounds, and incontinence. Ostomies are surgical procedures that create an artificial opening on the abdominal wall to allow waste products to leave the body. Enterostomal therapy nurses, also known as ET nurses, provide comprehensive care to patients with ostomies, including preoperative counseling, postoperative care, and long-term follow-up.
In addition to ostomy care, ET nurses also treat patients with complex wounds, such as pressure ulcers, and provide support and management for those with urinary and fecal incontinence. Their expertise in wound care, ostomy management, and incontinence issues make them instrumental in the rehabilitation and quality of life improvement for patients with these conditions.
To become an enterostomal therapy nurse, individuals must first complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN) and obtain their Registered Nurse (RN) license. The BSN program provides a comprehensive foundation in nursing knowledge and skills, preparing nurses for a wide range of healthcare settings. It typically takes four years to complete a BSN program, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences.
While a BSN degree is the minimum educational requirement, enterostomal therapy nurses undergo additional specialized training to develop expertise in wound care, ostomy management, and incontinence issues. This specialized training may involve completing a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Education Program, which includes a specified number of clinical hours and coursework focused on enterostomal therapy.
Certifications for enterostomal therapy nurses are available through the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing Certification Board (WOCNCB). These certifications validate the nurse’s advanced knowledge and proficiency in enterostomal therapy and can enhance career opportunities. Some of the certifications offered by the WOCNCB include:
Enterostomal therapy nurses can expect competitive salaries, reflecting their specialized skills and expertise. According to available data, the median salary for an ET nurse is approximately $86,000 annually, with salaries ranging between $73,481 and $113,000. The exact salary may vary depending on factors such as location, education level, experience, and the employing healthcare facility.
The employment outlook for enterostomal therapy nurses remains positive, as the demand for specialized healthcare professionals continues to grow. The aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions contribute to the need for enterostomal therapy nurses in various healthcare settings. ET nurses often enjoy long-term relationships with their patients, providing continuous care and support throughout their healthcare journey.
For those interested in further exploring enterostomal therapy nursing, the following resources provide additional information and guidance: