A physical therapist works closely with doctors and nurses in providing the best in medical care for patients. A physical therapist may also specialize in the care and treatment of wounds throughout the rehabilitation process, but in order to do so must be trained and certified in such care. Advance your career and earning potential by achieving education, training, experience and certification in wound care, which has applications in a variety of healthcare environments and scenarios.
Requirements
In order to qualify for coursework in wound care, you must first meet criteria set by the school offering the coursework. For example, a physical or occupational therapist must have a bachelor's degree or hold a doctoral or master's degree in life science fields of education. In order to take the certification exam, you may also need more than three years of experience in wound care at a clinical setting. You must also successfully complete training and education coursework in an accredited or certified wound care instruction program such as the Wound Care Education Institute wound management course.
Coursework
To be certified as a wound care specialist, you'll need to train in multiple areas of wound care that include but are not limited to the assessment, care and management of wounds from neuropathic to pressure ulcers, treatment and care of burns, wounds caused by arterial or venous ulcers, bedsores or decubitus ulcers and traumatic wounds caused by accidents. You'll need to know your anatomy and physiology and how to identify and deal with infections. You'll also need to successfully complete coursework in documentation of wounds, treatment methods, dressings and how nutrition may help in the healing process.
Training
Before you take your wound care certification exams, you must also have completed several educational and experience options, which may include at least 120 hours of clinical or hands-on training, according to the Wound Care Education Institute and the National Alliance of Wound Care Certification. You may also qualify by meeting requirements that include either two years of full-time or four years of part-time involvement in providing wound care to patients within the previous five years prior to sitting for exams for certification.
Certification Options
According to the National Alliance of Wound Care, you may be certified in wound care or diabetic wound care. The National Alliance of Wound Care offers additional information regarding certification and recertification depending on your interest and field of study, as well as certification and experiential options for exams. Requirements and qualifications depend on your current job title, history or experience in the field, and the type of certificate you wish to obtain.
