In this edition of the WOCN® Society Member Spotlight, meet Emilie Schlitt, BSN, RN, PCCN, CWOCN. Learn about her journey into WOC nursing, her passion for patient advocacy, the importance of human connection in healthcare, and how she empowers patients through education and compassionate care.
WOC Nursing Journey
Emilie has been a nurse for 22 years and has spent the last five years specializing in wound, ostomy, and continence care. Her journey into the specialty began while working on a Burn/Trauma Unit, where she developed a passion for wound care early in her career. While caring for patients with complex fistulas and new ostomies, Emilie worked closely with the hospital’s Wound and Ostomy team. It was during that time that WOC nurse and WOCN Society’s Past President Diane Bryant encouraged her to return to school to pursue WOC nursing.
“I can still remember the day Diane encouraged me to go back to school to become a WOC nurse. I am thankful for her support and the extra push I needed.”
Emilie has always been drawn to complex patient care and found that WOC nursing offered the perfect combination of critical thinking, hands-on skills, and patient education.
Passion for Healthcare
For Emilie, healthcare is about the human connection. “It is about being there for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I am passionate about being that support, advocating for them, and helping them regain control of their health.”
That philosophy guides her approach to every patient interaction. Through both inpatient and outpatient ostomy care, she has learned that every patient’s experience is unique.
“Being an ostomy nurse isn’t just about being a medical professional; it’s about being a source of emotional support, education, and empowerment for patients.”
Joining the WOCN Society
Emilie joined the WOCN Society because its mission aligns with her passion for patient advocacy. “Joining the Society aligns with my desire to advocate for patients. The Society is not only focused on clinical excellence but also on influencing policy and improving patient outcomes on a broader scale.”
She is proud to serve as the WOCN Society’s representative to the Digestive Disease National Coalition through the Public Policy & Advocacy Committee. One of her favorite aspects of membership is the supportive professional community.
“One of the best parts of being in the WOCN Society is being part of a culture of support and education. There are great opportunities to learn from seasoned nurses in the field.”
Proud Moments and Meaningful Connection
One of Emilie’s proudest professional accomplishments has been helping teach a multidisciplinary Prehabilitation Cystectomy Class for patients preparing for cystectomy surgery. “Being able to contribute specialized knowledge to improve patient care and outcomes is a source of pride.”
She is also motivated each day by the team she works with and the impact they make together. “What keeps me motivated every day is the amazing WOC team I work with and the knowledge that our work truly makes a difference. Whether we are helping someone adjust to their life with an ostomy or providing comfort during a difficult time, knowing that our care positively impacts someone’s life is a huge motivator.”
Approach to Healthcare
Emilie’s experiences have reinforced that exceptional patient care extends beyond clinical knowledge. “My journey and education have taught me that patient care goes beyond just the technical skills. It is about empathy, respect, collaboration, and continuous growth.”
Working with ostomy patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings has shown her that every patient’s journey is personal. She believes WOC nurses play an important role not only in providing clinical care but also in offering education, emotional support, and empowerment throughout the healing process.
Life Beyond Nursing
Outside of work, Emilie enjoys running as a way to stay active and recharge. When she’s not logging miles, she’s spending time with her family. She and her husband have three children, and much of their time is spent attending sporting events, activities, and traveling together whenever they can.
“Running helps me stay balanced and energized so I can keep up with the chaos and joy that comes with raising 3 kids.”
Words of Wisdom
For those considering a career in nursing, Emilie encourages them to explore the many specialties the profession offers.
“Nursing is a vast field, and there are many specialties to choose from, whether it is pediatrics, emergency care, oncology, or wound care. Explore different areas to find what excites and inspires you. Specializing can be a great way to deepen your expertise and feel even more connected to work.”
Thank You, Emilie
From advocating for patients at the national level to supporting individuals through some of life’s most vulnerable moments, Emilie exemplifies the compassion, expertise, and dedication that define WOC nursing. Whether she’s teaching future surgical patients, empowering individuals living with an ostomy, or mentoring through example, she continues to make a meaningful difference for her patients and the profession.
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