Career role model: Shiranthie Vithanage
I grew up in Sri Lanka and work there as a nurse for 2 years before moving to Saudi Arabia for 10 years, working as a ward manager in CCU. I came to the UK in 2000, where I have held a variety of nursing roles.
Shiranthie is a ward manager/ senior sister on Gallery Ward
Why nursing?
I wanted to be a nurse since childhood. My main source of inspiration to become a nurse come from an innate desire to help people with kindness and care for them in their time of need. I am also someone who thrives on being challenged and I always have new goals to achieve, so nursing suits me.
Career path?
Student nurse (Sri Lanka); Staff nurse, ward sister (Sri Lanka); Ward manager – CCU/ Cardiology (Saudi Arabia); Student nurse (adaptation for 3 months) cardiac ward, (UK); Staff nurse (CCU)
Ward Sister Avening, ward; Senior Ward Sister, Knightsbridge ward; Ward Manager/ Senior Sister Gallery ward
Why this specialty?
I have worked in various positions in different specialties in this hospital. Working with the elderly gives me a valuable insight into the ageing processes and what’s to come, giving me the opportunity to think about what matters most to us in life and how you will look after yourself as well as the patients you care for. Discharge can be challenging whilst self-sufficiency depends a lot on the underlying condition. I enjoy delivering care while working within a wider multidisciplinary team.
What obstacles have you faced and overcome?
Fear, overthinking my Goals
Do you see yourself as a mentor or role model?
I have been mentoring international nursing students and believe I can be an excellent role model. In my journey, I have been well supported and I have paid this forward by being an approachable mentor for my students and staff on my team.
What qualities are essential in your position?
Knowledgeable, approachability, reliability, delegation and confidence
Why Gloucestershire?
I love Gloucestershire, its stunning buildings, fascinating history and vibrant arts sense, whilst also being surrounded by areas of outstanding natural beauty. It’s a great place to live and raise a family, and most of all, the people are very friendly.
Please sum yourself up in 3 words or phrases
Confident, Perspective, Approachable