Certificate in Wound Debridement (Level 7)
Allied Health
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
New Zealand’s first and only qualification in wound debridement providing competency in conservative sharp wound debridement (CSWD) for health professionals working with adults and performing wound care.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 6 months
This course requires 9 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Understanding wound debridement
Develop knowledge of pathology, physiology of wounds, and the rationale for debridement.
Application of debridement methods
Assess and justify the use of various wound debridement techniques for optimal clinical outcomes.
Pain management during debridement
Evaluate and manage patient pain effectively throughout wound care procedures.
What You're Signing Up For
This Certificate provides competency in conservative sharp wound debridement (CSWD) through online learning and practical workshops. It is designed for existing health professionals such as Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Enrolled Nurses, Podiatrists, or Doctors who perform wound care procedures regularly. The programme includes theoretical knowledge of wound pathology, assessment, pain management, and practical skills gained through a two-day practicum and mentored work-based learning. It aims to upskill practitioners in clinical wound debridement, improving patient outcomes.
Course Content
- What and Why of Wound Debridement: pathology, aetiology, wound healing factors, infection, biofilm, wound hygiene
- Debridement Modalities: types of debridement, indications, contraindications, scope of practice, multidisciplinary approaches
- Pain Management: pain evaluation, pain management options, pharmacology
- Clinical Assessment and Skills: lower limb and foot assessment, vascular investigations, diabetic foot considerations, Māori models of care, two-day practical workshop with CSWD skills, clinical competencies portfolio
What you need to know first
Be a practicing Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Enrolled Nurse (3+ years experience), Podiatrist, or Doctor licensed in NZ.
Perform wound care procedures at least weekly.
Organisational support and mentor supervision agreement.
English proficiency as per NZ university entrance or IELTS 6.0.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Healthcare
Future employment opportunities might be
Wound care specialist roles in healthcare settings
Advanced clinical practice roles in nursing and allied health
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.