Wound Care Nurse (RN)

Outpatient Wound Care Registered Nurse (RN)

The Outpatient Wound Care Registered Nurse (RN) provides specialized nursing care to patients with acute and chronic wounds in an ambulatory care setting. In this role, the wound care registered nurse will be the frontline expert in managing acute and chronic wounds, including diabetic ulcers, pressure injuries, and post-surgical site complications. This role focuses on assessment, treatment, patient education, and coordination of care to promote optimal healing outcomes. The RN collaborates with physicians, advanced practice providers, and interdisciplinary teams to deliver evidence-based wound management.

Functions and Duties:

• Assessment & Treatment: Perform comprehensive wound assessments, including measuring wound dimensions, identifying tissue types, and evaluating peri wound skin integrity.
• Wound Management: Cleanse, debride (within scope), and apply specialized dressings, compression therapy, and topical treatments based on physician orders. Monitor wound healing progress and adjust care plans accordingly. Recognize signs of infection or complications and escalate care when needed.
• Patient Education: Empower patients and caregivers by providing clear instructions on home dressing changes, nutrition for healing, and offloading techniques.
• Documentation and Compliance: Maintain precise, real-time electronic health records (EHR) documenting wound progress, photographic evidence, and response to treatment. Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, infection control, and clinic protocols. Support quality improvement initiatives and data tracking for wound outcomes.
• Care Coordination: Act as a liaison between the patient, primary care physicians, and specialty providers to ensure a holistic approach to healing. Coordinate referrals for home health, specialty services, or advanced therapies. Participate in multidisciplinary case reviews.
• Outpatient Clinic Operations: Prepare and maintain treatment rooms and supplies. Ensure proper use and maintenance of wound care equipment. Support scheduling efficiency and patient flow.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education

Associate or bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN preferred).

Experience

Minimum of 1–2 years of clinical nursing experience (Med-Surg, Home Health, or ER experience is a plus). Experience in outpatient or ambulatory care settings preferred.

Certifications, Licenses, and Registrations:

· Active, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of Illinois.

· Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nursing (WOCN) or WCC certification.

· BLS/CPR certification required.

Skills and Abilities

· Knowledge of advanced wound therapies and products.

· Clinical assessment and critical thinking

· Attention to detail and documentation accuracy

· Patient-centered care and empathy

· Time management and organizational skills

· Ability to work independently and collaboratively

· Strong patient education and communication skills.

Physical Demands

· Ability to lift, push, pull up to 50 lbs.

· Prolonged standing and patient handling may be required

· Ability to twist, bend, stoop, kneel, and reach