Step One: Understand Certification & Scope of Practice

For Registered Nurses (RNs): An RN can become a wound care specialist. To get certified for advanced wound care, an RN can pursue a certification like the Wound Care Certified (WCC) from the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy (NAWCCB). This can be obtained quickly through a one-week intensive course and an exam. While a WCC-certified RN can perform tasks like comprehensive wound assessment and debridement, applying skin grafts and substitutes is generally considered a surgical procedure that requires a physician’s order.

For Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) / Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs): LPNs and LVNs can also obtain wound care certifications, such as the Wound Care Certified (WCC) from the NAWCCB or the Certified Wound Care Associate (CWCA) from the American Board of Wound Management (ABWM). Their scope of practice is more limited and they must always work under the supervision of an RN or physician.

For Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs): A CNA’s role is fundamentally different from a licensed nurse. A certified CNA could obtain a Wound Care Technician Certification (WCT-C) but cannot perform advanced wound care tasks without direct delegation from a licensed nurse.

For Physicians (Podiatrists/Dermatologists): Physicians like Podiatrists and Dermatologists are already qualified to perform procedures like applying skin grafts within their specialty. They can pursue a credential like the Certified Wound Specialist Physician (CWSP) from the American Board of Wound Management (ABWM) as a professional distinction, but it is not a legal requirement to perform the procedure.

Step 2: Establish a Collaborative Practice (For RNs)

This is a crucial step for RNs. They must establish a relationship with a physician or other licensed provider (like a podiatrist or dermatologist) who can authorize the use of skin substitutes.

Telehealth-Enabled Workflow: The RN can perform the initial wound assessment and pre-procedure preparation. A telehealth consultation can then be conducted with the authorizing provider, who reviews the case and provides the necessary orders. The RN can then apply the prescribed dressings or therapies under supervision.

Step 3: Partner with IMI for Turnkey Support

Explain how IMI simplifies the process with our turnkey ecosystem.
Mention key services like our Catalog of Membranes, Reimbursement & Billing Support, and Seamless Onboarding & Staff Training.
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