CoNSA recommends that you consider the following:
Further your understanding of the role of the Nurse Continence Specialist (NCS)
Download the Practice Standards for Nurse Continence Specialists.
These standards have been designed to guide nurse continence specialist practice, and to guide Registered Nurses who want to develop their knowledge and skills in this area of clinical practice.
Become a member of CoNSA
Membership will give you access to a network of continence nurse specialists across Australia, as well as opportunities for continuing education and mentorship.
You can find more information about membership here.
Undertake further education
As the role of NCS is an advanced practice role, there is an expectation that you would pursue post graduate qualifications (Graduate certificate, diploma, or master’s degree level).
There are several options for further study although most won’t give you a formal post graduate qualification as they are essentially subjects or short courses.
You may be able to apply for credit at a university for any subjects or short courses you have successfully completed. However, for many people, continence related short courses or subjects are a good place to start getting into the specialty area.
The short courses/subjects listed below have been reviewed by CoNSA as being relevant to continence nursing practice, and address some or all the NCS practice standards.
The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) has re-redveloped its single subject 'Continence Management'.
This fully online, stand-alone, 6 credit points subject identifies key aspects of continence management.
ACN has designed the subject to align with the professional practice standards for Nurse Continence Specialists.