
Wounds Canada is excited to offer three highly interactive virtual conference events including our hybrid National Conference, which will be held in person at Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls from September 28-30, 2023.
The Wounds Canada National Conference is the largest wound-related event in Canada, bringing together health-care professionals, educators and key opinion leaders in both a virtual and on-site gathering in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Click on each button below for more information.
VIRTUAL Limb Preservation Symposium
April 28, 2023
HYBRID National Conference Niagara Falls
September 28-30, 2023
In Person
Niagara Falls
Wound Care for
Community-Based Paramedics
September
28, 2023
VIRTUAL Pressure Injury Symposium
November 16, 2023
Click the buttons below to learn about the registration packages available. All fees are in Canadian dollars and are subject to 13% HST.
Wounds Canada Virtual Conference Package
In-person Niagara Falls Conference Attendee
In Person
Niagara Falls
Community-Based
Paramedics Attendee
View Sponsored Agenda (click here)
All session times are shown in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
NOW *ACCREDITED! (click for details)
Virginie Blanchette, BSc, MSc, DPM, PhD
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Robyn Evans, BSc, MD, CCFP, FCFP
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Marlene Varga, RN, BScN, MSc, IIWCC
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Francis Garwe, CEO, MAOM-HCM, Bsc-MIS
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Keith Harding, CBE, FRCGP, FRCP, FRCS
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Lubna Tirmizi, MD
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Douglas Queen, BSc, PhD, MBA
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This session will equip you with the knowledge to understand the vital role innovation plays in revolutionizing wound care practices and technologies. Dive deep into real-world impact, exploring how innovative approaches can shorten healing time, enhance patient satisfaction, and reduce healthcare costs. You'll also tackle the challenges that often hinder innovation adoption and learn practical strategies to overcome them. Don't miss this opportunity to pinpoint new avenues for research and development in wound care innovation.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Erin Telegdi, RN, BA, BScN
David Keast, BSc(Hon), MSc, DipEd, MD, CCTP, FCFP(LM), CCFP
Moderator: Doug Beemer, RN
Patricia Coutts, RN, IIWCC
Canadian Association of Wound Care
This hands-on session for paramedics addresses the unique challenges of emergency wound care. Guided by experienced practitioners, participants will learn vital techniques to effectively treat wounds in time-sensitive and challenging situations.
Darren Levine, EdD
Douglas Queen, BSc, PhD, MBA
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Session Objectives
This interactive session will give you an in-depth look at British Columbia's pioneering approaches in wound care—from new tech to interdisciplinary teamwork and patient-focused solutions. We won't just talk about innovation; you'll analyze its real-world impact on patient outcomes, healthcare efficiency, and costs. But it doesn't end there—you'll walk away with a personalized action plan to implement these cutting-edge practices into your own clinical setting. Don't miss this chance to be a change-maker!
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Greg Archibald, MD, CCFP, FCFP
Robyn Evans, BSc, MD, CCFP, FCFP
Sheena Fortuna, RN
Sunita Coelho, RN, BSN
Patricia Coutts, RN, IIWCC
Canadian Association of Wound Care
This intensive session will make you proficient in the rationale and methods behind wound debridement. Learn to assess risks and benefits of various debridement techniques and choose the most appropriate one based on patient and wound specifics. Witness live demonstrations on non-viable conservative sharp debridement and the dissection of skin's underlying structures. Navigate the legal landscape with a review of guidelines set by governing bodies for safe debridement practices. Join us to acquire these essential skills that lead to better patient outcomes.
Demo Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Identify the rationale for wound debridement
2. Discuss, compare and contrast the risks and benefits of different types of wound debridement methods
3. Review the appropriate debridement technique based on patient and wound considerations
4. Observe non-viable conservative sharp debridement and discuss post debridement care
5. Observe dissection of the skin’s underlying structures
6. Review requirements from governing bodies and agencies to support the practise of conservative sharp non viable tissue debridement
Virginie Blanchette, BSc, MSc, DPM, PhD
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Robyn Evans, BSc, MD, CCFP, FCFP
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Marlene Varga, RN, BScN, MSc, IIWCC
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Mary-Ellen Hynd, MBA, CPCC, PCC
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Janet Kuhnke, RN, BA, BScN, MS, NSWOC, DrPsychology
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Crystal McCallum MClSc-WH, BScN, RN
Linda Moss, Patient and Care Giver Advocate
This keynote session, "Developing the Leader in You," facilitated by renowned expert Mary-Ellen Hynd, dives into the core principles that differentiate mere managers from transformative leaders. Explore the intricacies of relational leadership, delving into self-awareness, trust-building, and effective team dynamics. You won't just learn about leadership—you'll experience it, identifying your personal values that serve as a compass for resilience, communication, and decision-making. Whether you're a budding leader or an experienced professional, this session offers actionable tips to elevate your leadership skills to the next level.
Session Objectives
At the end of Developing the Leader in You, participants will be able to:
This session provides an exclusive overview of Wounds Canada's current projects and initiatives that are revolutionizing the field. But we're not just sharing information—we're extending an invitation. Learn about various opportunities for meaningful engagement in Wounds Canada’s initiatives. Whether you're a healthcare professional, researcher, or stakeholder, this session will show you how to take an active role in shaping the future of wound care. Don't miss your chance to contribute and collaborate—join us!
At the end of Wounds Canada: Your Partner in Wound Care, participants will be able to:
Ahmed Kayssi, MD MSc MPH CWSP FRCSC FACS
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Douglas Queen, BSc, PhD, MBA
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Stay at the forefront of wound care innovation by joining our session, "Wound Care Research Priorities in Canada and Top Research Papers to Read." This comprehensive overview will enlighten you on Canada's key wound care research priorities, ranging from enhanced wound assessment to ground-breaking products and technologies. Dive into the crucial findings of Canada's top wound care research papers, gaining insights into the latest advancements and effective interventions. Take your expertise a step further by learning how to critically evaluate the quality and relevance of published research. Don't miss this essential guide to Canadian wound care research—be there!
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Jill Brooke, BSc(hons), MClScWH, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C)
Amber Menezes, MD, FRCSC, FACS
This session will arm you with fundamental principles for preventing and managing surgical site infections—covering everything from hand hygiene to antimicrobial prophylaxis. But we're not stopping at theory. You'll get actionable tips that you can immediately integrate into your clinical practice. Plus, learn to critically assess the effectiveness of various strategies and pinpoint opportunities for improvement in your own setting. Upgrade your clinical toolkit and set a new standard of care—join us!
Session Objectives:
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
David Croitoru, MSc, MD, FRCSC, DABD
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This engaging session, "Connecting the Dots on Vasculitis." Will provide you with an in-depth understanding of vasculitis pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, imaging techniques, and laboratory tests that are essential for effective management. Learn to assess the consequences of vasculitis on wound healing and how delayed diagnosis can lead to complications. Beyond theoretical understanding, you'll walk away with a comprehensive plan tailored for managing vasculitis in patients with chronic wounds. Also, explore untapped areas for research and development in vasculitis and wound care. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your clinical insights.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Helen Arputhanathan, MSc Wound Care (Australia), BScN, RN, IIWCC, NSWOC, WOCC(C)
Sunita Coelho, RN, BSN
Crystal McCallum MClSc-WH, BScN, RN
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Jane McSwiggan, MSc, OT Reg.(MB), IIWCC
Learn how to select the perfect dressing for specific wounds like pressure injuries or diabetic foot ulcers, based on solid wound assessment techniques. Observe real-time demonstrations on the effectiveness of various dressings—be it foam, hydrocolloid, or alginate—and make evidence-based decisions for your patients. Evaluate the pros and cons of different dressing types and tailor your choices to the unique needs of each patient. Master the art and science of wound dressings.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Apply their knowledge of wound assessment and characteristics to select appropriate wound dressings for specific types of wounds, such as pressure injuries, venous ulcers, or diabetic foot ulcers.
2. Analyze the effectiveness of different types of wound dressings, such as foam, hydrocolloid, or alginate dressings, based on their properties and indications, and make evidence-based recommendations for their use.
3. Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of different dressings and select the most appropriate dressing based on the patient's individual needs and wound characteristics.
Amanda Mayo, BSc, MD, MHSc, FRCPC
Audrey Zucker-Levin, PhD, PT, MBA, GCS Emeritus
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Participants will achieve a comprehensive understanding of exercise barriers in DFU/DM patients, addressing issues like pain, injury fears, and motivation. They will gain the expertise to design individualized, safe exercise programs by applying knowledge of exercise physiology and wound care, tailored to patients' unique needs and limitations. The session also explores the impact of various exercises on wound healing and overall health, enabling evidence-based recommendations. Delegates will learn to assess the effectiveness of fitness maintenance strategies, including goal setting and progress monitoring. This session equips professionals to enhance DFU patient care through fitness while minimizing complications.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Ahmed Kayssi, MD MSc MPH CWSP FRCSC FACS
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Pparticipants will attain a comprehensive grasp of peripheral artery disease (PAD), including its pathophysiology, arterial occlusion mechanisms, and effects on blood flow and tissue perfusion. They will develop practical skills through a thorough physical examination, encompassing pulse palpation, ankle-brachial index measurement, and skin perfusion assessment. The session equips participants to evaluate and interpret diagnostic criteria for PAD, involving imaging studies like duplex ultrasound and angiography. Ultimately, attendees will be proficient in assessing and diagnosing PAD in their patients, contributing to more effective healthcare management.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Sunita Coelho, RN, BSN
Sheena Fortuna, RN
David Keast, BSc(Hon), MSc, DipEd, MD, CCTP, FCFP(LM), CCFP
Janet Kuhnke, RN, BA, BScN, MS, NSWOC, DrPsychology
Patricia Coutts, RN, IIWCC
Canadian Association of Wound Care
Janet Kuhnke, RN, BA, BScN, MS, NSWOC, DrPsychology
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This demo will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of chronic edema/lymphedema and its relationship to chronic wounds. This session equips attendees with the knowledge to assess, manage, and appreciate the impact of barriers and social determinants of health on patient care. Moreover, participants gained insights into the pivotal role of compression therapy in lymphedema management and received practical guidance through a demonstration of compression samples and garments. This valuable session empowers healthcare professionals to enhance their skills in addressing lymphedema effectively and preventing complications.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Appraise the prevalence of chronic edema/lymphedema in Canada and its relationship to chronic wounds.
2. Summarize the pathophysiology of chronic edema/lymphedema.
3. Describe the approach to the assessment and management of the person with chronic edema/lymphedema.
4. Assess the impact of barriers and social determinants of health on the implementation of care plans.
5. Appreciate the key role of compression therapy in the management of lymphedema and the prevention of complications.
6. Acquire practical tips for compression therapy access and application through a demonstration of compression samples and garments.
Andrea Furlan, MD, PhD
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The session empowers participants to effectively address neuropathic pain. By comprehending the pathophysiology's impact on patients' lives and employing validated assessment tools, participants can identify and assess neuropathic pain accurately. The session equips healthcare professionals with evidence-based recommendations for management, covering pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions and the responsible use of controlled substances. Attendees also gain the ability to evaluate the efficacy of these strategies across diverse patient populations. This knowledge enables better pain management and improved quality of life for individuals suffering from neuropathic pain.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
David Croitoru, MSc, MD, FRCSC, DABD
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This session offers participants a dynamic learning experience in dermatology. By recalling key features of various skin conditions, understanding their underlying causes and connections to other health issues, and applying this knowledge in rapid-fire scenarios, attendees can sharpen their diagnostic and treatment skills. This session encourages critical thinking by comparing different skin conditions.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Greg Archibald, MD, CCFP, FCFP
Keith Harding, CBE, FRCGP, FRCP, FRCS
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Cathy Slevin OT Reg. (Ont.), MHA
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Collaboration for (Pro)-action: Best Practices for Effective Teamwork in Wound Care" session equips participants with essential skills and insights. They gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of diverse healthcare professionals in wound care, emphasizing effective communication and collaboration. Through practical simulation exercises, participants learn to identify and overcome communication and collaboration barriers. The session emphasizes the significant impact of teamwork on wound care outcomes, spanning patient satisfaction, wound healing, and healthcare costs. Lastly, attendees gain the ability to self-evaluate their teamwork skills, identifying areas for improvement, including communication, leadership, and conflict resolution. This knowledge enhances their capacity to provide improved wound care.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Greg Archibald, MD, CCFP, FCFP
Robyn Evans, BSc, MD, CCFP, FCFP
John Hwang, MD, FRCSC
Xiu Zhao, MD, CCFP(COE)
This session empowers MDs and NPs with comprehensive wound care expertise. Attendees will be able to differentiate between various wound types, comprehending their causes, characteristics, and suitable treatment options, rooted in fundamental wound care principles. They can then apply this knowledge to assess and manage patients with complex wounds, making informed choices about wound dressings and implementing evidence-based practices within their primary care settings. Moreover, participants will develop the ability to assess the effectiveness of their wound care interventions, utilizing appropriate outcome measures to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments, ultimately optimizing patient outcomes and care delivery.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
• Review the principles of wound healing and expected healing potential
• Develop a systematic approach to the assessment of pressure injury, lower leg wounds and diabetic foot
• Create a treatment plan that addresses infection, dressing selection and appropriate consideration for referral and follow up.
Irmajean Bajnok, RN, BScN, MScN, PhD, FCAN, FAAN
This session equips participants with valuable insights and skills to drive positive change in wound care policy. Attendees will grasp the profound influence of wound care policy on patient outcomes, healthcare providers, and healthcare systems. They will develop the ability to critically assess existing policies, recognizing strengths and weaknesses while pinpointing areas for enhancement. Armed with this knowledge, participants can become effective advocates for policy changes that enhance patient care and outcomes. Furthermore, they will gain the expertise to evaluate the impact of these policy changes, measuring improvements in patient outcomes and the reduction of healthcare costs. This session empowers healthcare professionals to play an active role in shaping the future of wound care policy and advancing patient well-being.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Laura Teague, NP-Adult, PhD
The "Oral Posters" session provides participants with a platform to engage with cutting-edge wound care research. Attendees will gain an appreciation for the significance and relevance of the presented research in the field of wound care. They will be able to translate the knowledge acquired into practical applications within their clinical practice and decision-making processes. Moreover, participants will develop critical thinking skills by assessing the strengths and limitations of the research, including its methodology, sample size, and potential biases. Lastly, they will be equipped to evaluate the potential impact of the research on wound care practices and, ultimately, on improving patient outcomes. This session fosters a deeper understanding of current advancements in wound care and their real-world implications.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Paul Bunce, MA, MD, FRCPC
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The "Safeguarding the Future: Antibiotic Stewardship in Wound Care" session equips participants with vital knowledge and skills. Attendees will understand the rationale behind antibiotic stewardship in wound care, recognizing the risks associated with inappropriate antibiotic use. They will gain the ability to apply stewardship principles in real-world wound care scenarios, making informed antibiotic choices. Additionally, participants will analyze the potential impact of antibiotic stewardship on patient outcomes, including the prevention of antibiotic-resistant infections and reduced healthcare costs. Lastly, they will be capable of evaluating the effectiveness of stewardship programs, assessing their success in reducing unnecessary antibiotic use and enhancing patient outcomes.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Laura Teague, NP-Adult, PhD
The Oral Posters session provides participants with a platform to engage with cutting-edge wound care research. Attendees will gain an appreciation for the significance and relevance of the presented research in the field of wound care. They will be able to translate the knowledge acquired into practical applications within their clinical practice and decision-making processes. Moreover, participants will develop critical thinking skills by assessing the strengths and limitations of the research, including its methodology, sample size, and potential biases. Lastly, they will be equipped to evaluate the potential impact of the research on wound care practices and, ultimately, on improving patient outcomes.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Catherine Cheung, MD, FRCPC
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Participants gain vital insights and skills to address the complexities of wound care in older adults. This session covers key physiological changes associated with aging and their impact on wound healing. It delves into the unique challenges of acute wound care in older adults, including comorbidities, polypharmacy, and social factors. Through case-based discussions, attendees learn to apply their geriatric expertise to assess and manage these injuries, overcoming potential barriers like cognitive impairment and mobility limitations with strategic solutions. The session culminates in the development of comprehensive care plans, integrating geriatric-specific considerations such as medication management, nutrition, and social support to optimize care for older adults with acute wounds.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Virginie Blanchette, BSc, MSc, DPM, PhD
Janet Kuhnke, RN, BA, BScN, MS, NSWOC, DrPsychology
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Jane McSwiggan, MSc, OT Reg.(MB), IIWCC
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Linda Norton, MClSc – WH, M.Sc.CH, PhD, OT Reg.(ONT)
Marlene Varga, RN, BScN, MSc, IIWCC
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Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Describe categories/functions of therapeutic support surfaces (TSS)
2. Evaluate the current available evidence of TSS
3. Review the benefits, risks and limitations of different TSS from a patient and service perspective
4. Link evidence to action by selecting and evaluating TSS’s for individual patient use and purchasing using the new TSS algorithm
Irmajean Bajnok, RN, BScN, MScN, PhD, FCAN, FAAN
Virginie Blanchette, BSc, MSc, DPM, PhD
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Robyn Evans, BSc, MD, CCFP, FCFP
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Marlene Varga, RN, BScN, MSc, IIWCC
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Linda Moss, Patient and Care Giver Advocate
Participants reflect on the conference's profound impact. They analyze how it has enriched their knowledge and transformed their clinical practice, recognizing its broader implications for the field of wound care. Attendees identify areas ripe for further research and innovation, crucial for advancing wound care and enhancing patient outcomes. Finally, participants craft actionable plans for seamlessly integrating the knowledge and strategies acquired during the conference into their clinical practice and organizational policies, ensuring lasting improvements in wound care delivery. This closing session encapsulates the conference's mission to inspire positive change and progress within the wound care community.
Session Objectives
At the end of this session, participants will be able to:
This is your opportunity to engage in discussions, participate in educational sessions, network with your peers and stay current with the latest information in wound prevention and management. Our THREE interactive events, with on-demand session recordings available until January 31, 2024, offer:
The hybrid National Conference will also offer a special Sponsors Showcase Day on Thursday, September 28, 2023 with sessions and extended exhibit times to feature the latest research, wound care products, services, and technology.
Join us at these dynamic wound-related conferences either on your laptop, tablet, or mobile phone or in person at Niagara Falls!
WHO ATTENDS
DISCLAIMER: As a participant to this virtual conference, you acknowledge and agree that Wounds Canada does not endorse the information, products or services shared by presenters and sponsors. Health-care recommendations are strictly for discussion purposes and individuals should seek consultation with their respective health-care professionals. Wounds Canada has the right to make changes to the agenda, presenters, and schedules without further notice.
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