Diabetic Wound Specialist Certification

[inthepipeline, LPN]

I'm currently an LPN working in a diabetes clinic, have been for the last 1 year 9 months and I also work a sub acute per diem. I'm starting my LPN to RN January 2018 and have a Bachelors degree in another discipline. I do not have the requisite hours for the WCC and I was wondering if the DWC is worth the time and money as a certification or if I should just wait until I finish my RN and go for the WOCN certification instead. The price is pretty steep at $2,800 for the DWC. Thank you for any advice.

[Turtle in scrubs]

Hi Inthepipeline,

From my experience WOCN's are in demand (in the couple of States I've lived in). I am not familiar with a DWC. It may be popular in different areas of the country however. I think the question is, 'are there jobs out there that require this certification'? Have you seen postings for jobs that require a DWC? Or, do you work for an employer who will hire you in a new role, or pay you more money if you have this certification? If the answer is 'No' to these, I would steer clear of going that route.

Whatever route you take, I would recommend researching the job demand in your area first. If you are in an OP clinic I'm guessing you have vendors stop by. Talk to them! They have their finger on the pulse of the area, and will often be able to tell you who is looking for a WOCN, etc. Some places will hire a nurse without a WOCN, and pay for them to go to school if they will commit to working at their facility for a couple of years. It's always worth asking! Visit local hospitals and clinics and just ask questions. Check out Indeed and see what jobs are listed for WOCN's and DWC's.

Good luck!