Senior Lecturer, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka.
Siyambalapiti Mudalige Eranthi Bimalee Weeratunga is an accomplished Senior Lecturer in the Department of Nursing at the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, with over 14 years of academic experience. She holds an M.Phil. in Health Promotion and has focused her research on psychosocial factors affecting cancer patients’ quality of life, demonstrating her commitment to health promotion and palliative care. Weeratunga has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented her findings at both national and international conferences, showcasing her active engagement in the academic community. Additionally, her participation in interdisciplinary collaborations and various university committees reflects her dedication to advancing nursing education and research. With a strong focus on community impact, she aims to improve patient care for vulnerable populations. Overall, her extensive qualifications and contributions make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, embodying the ideals of excellence in research and education.
Education
Eranthi Bimalee Weeratunga has a strong academic background that underpins her expertise in nursing and research. She holds an M.Phil. in Health Promotion from the University of Ruhuna, with her thesis focusing on psychosocial factors associated with the quality of life in cancer patients, reflecting her specialized interest in cancer care and palliative support. She also obtained a B.Sc. (Hons) in Nursing from the Open University of Sri Lanka, where her undergraduate research focused on causes of readmissions following heart valve replacement surgery. Additionally, Eranthi holds a Diploma in Nursing from the School of Nursing in Sri Jayewardenepura. Her commitment to continuous learning is further demonstrated by numerous certifications in critical care, research methodology, and higher education. Eranthi’s diverse educational experiences have equipped her with the knowledge and skills essential for her research and teaching, contributing to her development as a leader in nursing education and cancer care.
Professional Experiences
Siyambalapiti Mudalige Eranthi Bimalee Weeratunga has accumulated extensive professional experience inNursing and academia. After qualifying as a Registered Nurse in 1999, she worked at Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, initially in the Otorhinolaryngology department and later in the Cardio-Thoracic Unit for nearly a decade. This clinical exposure provided her with invaluable skills and insights into patient care, particularly in high-pressure environments. Transitioning to academia, she joined the University of Ruhuna as a probationary lecturer, where she has served for over 14 years, contributing to the development of nursing programs and mentoring numerous undergraduate students. Eranthi has also participated in various professional development initiatives, including international training in Sweden, enhancing her expertise in primary health care. Her diverse experiences in clinical practice and education uniquely position her to advance nursing knowledge, particularly in cancer care and palliative support, making her a vital asset to her institution and the broader healthcare community.
Research Skills
Siyambalapiti Mudalige Eranthi Bimalee Weeratunga possesses a robust set of research skills honed through years of academic and professional experience. Her expertise in cancer nursing and palliative care drives her research focus, evidenced by her M.Phil. thesis on psychosocial factors affecting the quality of life in cancer patients. Eranthi is adept at designing and implementing research studies, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. She has successfully supervised numerous undergraduate research projects, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills among her students. Her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at various national and international conferences, showcasing her ability to communicate research findings effectively. Furthermore, Eranthi actively engages in professional development, continuously updating her research methodologies and techniques. Her strong foundation in research not only enhances her own scholarly contributions but also enriches the academic environment for her students and colleagues, making her an asset to the field of nursing.
Award and Recognition
Siyambalapiti Mudalige Eranthi Bimalee Weeratunga has received numerous accolades for her contributions to nursing and research. Her M.Phil. thesis on psychosocial factors affecting the quality of life of cancer patients garnered attention within the academic community, leading to presentations at national and international conferences. Eranthi’s commitment to excellence is reflected in her publications in peer-reviewed journals, showcasing her research findings and innovative approaches to cancer care and health promotion. She has also been recognized for her teaching effectiveness and dedication to mentoring students, earning positive feedback from both peers and students alike. Her involvement in various committees and initiatives further highlights her leadership within the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences. Additionally, her participation in international training programs has enriched her perspective, allowing her to bring global insights to her local context. These accomplishments collectively underscore Eranthi’s significant impact on the nursing field and her potential for future contributions.
Conclusion
Eranthi Bimalee Weeratunga’s extensive academic achievements, impactful research contributions, dedication to teaching, and commitment to professional and community service make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work in cancer care and health promotion reflects significant contributions to nursing science, underscoring her excellence as a researcher and educator.
Publication Top Notes
- Psychological distress in cancer patients in Southern province of Sri Lanka
Authors: EB Weeratunga, C Senadheera, U Ekanayake
Year: 2016
Citation: Galle Medical Association, 10.
- Validation of the Sinhalese Version of Brief COPE Scale for patients with cancer in Sri Lanka
Authors: E Weeratunga, C Senadheera, M Hettiarachchi, B Perera
Year: 2022
Citation: BMC Psychology, 10(157), 1-11.
- The prevalence and correlates of depressive symptoms in patients with cancer treated in a Tertiary health care facility in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: EB Weeratunga, C Senadheera, M Hettiarachchi, B Perera
Year: 2021
Citation: International Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies, 8(2), 13-29.
- Psychosocial Factors Associated with Quality of Life of Patients with Cancer in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: E Weeratunga, C Senadheera, M Hettiarachchi, U Ekanayaka, B Perera
Year: 2019
Citation: Proceeding of 2nd Annual Research Conference – RuFARS, pp. 30-41.
- Examining the quality of life of patients living with breast cancer in Southern Sri Lanka: A descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: E Weeratunga, C Senadheera, M Hettiarachchi, B Perera
Year: 2022
Citation: International Health Trends and Perspective, 2(3), 272-285.
- Validity and Reliability of the Multi Dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) in Cancer Patients
Authors: EB Weeratunga, C Senadheera, M Hettiarchichi, U Ekanayaka, B Perera
Year: 2018
Citation: 11th International Research Conference of General Sir John Kotelawala …
- Psychological disturbances encountered by selected undergraduates studying at the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka during the Covid-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: THM Kauashani, EB Weeratunga
Year: 2023
Citation: Scientific Reports, 2(20559), 1-14.
- Psychological disturbances encountered by the healthcare professionals, military professionals and general public in Sri Lanka during COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: TD Sundarapperuma, MWK Gamage, N Rathnayake, EB Weeratunga, …
Year: 2023
Citation: BMC Psychiatry, 23(1), 452.
- Coping Strategies among Patients with Cancer: A Cross-sectional Study done in Teaching Hospital Karapitiya, Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: EB Weeratunga, C Senadheera, M Hettiarachchi, B Perera
Year: 2021
Citation: Proceeding of 4th Annual Research Conference – RuFARS, Faculty of Allied …
- Satisfaction with cancer care among patients treated in a tertiary care hospital in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: EB Weeratunga, C Senadheera, M Hettiarchichi, U Ekanayaka, B Perera
Year: 2019
Citation: Asia-Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health (APACPH), Thailand.
- Correlates of social support of Breast cancer patients in a tertiary care hospital in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: EB Weeratunga, M Hettiarachchi, C Senadheera, U Ekanayaka, B Perera
Year: 2018
Citation: Proceedings of International Nursing Congress, Faculty of Allied Health …
- Quality of life of Breast cancer patients treated at Teaching Hospital Karapitiya, Sri Lanka
Authors: E Weeratunga, M Hettiarachchi, U Ekanayaka
Year: 2018
Citation: University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka.
- The depressive symptomatology among cancer patients in a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka.
Authors: EB Weeratunga, B Perera, M Hettiarachchi, C Senadheera, U Ekanayaka
Year: 2015
Citation: Ruhunu Clinical Society, Matara, Sri Lanka.
- The Necessity of Establishing an Advanced Certificate Course in Palliative Care Nursing at the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
Authors: E Weeratunga, S Karunanayaka, P Kariyawasam, B Wickramarachchi
Year: 2024
Citation: International Research Symposium of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences …
- Prevalence and Associated Factors of Depressive Symptoms among Informal Caregivers of Patients with Advanced Cancer at the Apeksha Hospital Maharagama, Sri Lanka
Authors: E Weeratunga, S Goonewardena, L Meegoda
Year: 2024
Citation: International Research Symposium of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences …