Lomanono Ngidie | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Lomanono Ngidie | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Registered Nurse at University of Zambia, Eswatini (Swaziland)

Lomanono Ngidie is a dedicated healthcare professional based in Eswatini, specializing in nursing and public health. With a strong commitment to improving healthcare access, particularly in the field of HIV care, Lomanono has cultivated a rich blend of clinical and academic expertise. She is a registered nurse and a focal person for the Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) department at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Her efforts focus on managing ART patients and enhancing the quality of care provided in underserved communities. Lomanono holds a profound belief in the power of education and research to drive change in healthcare practices. A fluent speaker of both SiSwati and English, she is known for her collaborative spirit and ability to work effectively with diverse populations. Lomanono aims to influence healthcare policies and improve patient outcomes through her ongoing research and clinical initiatives.

Professional Profile

Education

Lomanono Ngidie is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in Clinical Nursing at the University of Zambia, expected to be completed in 2024. She previously earned her Bachelor of Nursing Science degree, majoring in Midwifery Science, from the University of Eswatini in 2018. To enhance her practical skills, Lomanono has undertaken various specialized training programs, including NARTIS (Nurse-led ART Initiation), IMAI (Integrated Management of Adult and Adolescent Illnesses), and a comprehensive care package for key populations, all conducted by the Eswatini Ministry of Health. Additionally, she holds a certificate in HIV Testing and Counseling from Population Services International (PSI). Her educational journey reflects her commitment to acquiring knowledge and skills that directly benefit her community, equipping her to address pressing health challenges effectively.

Professional Experience

Lomanono Ngidie has amassed over five years of clinical experience in the nursing field, primarily focusing on HIV care and management. Since 2019, she has served as a registered nurse and ART department focal person at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation in Matsapha, Eswatini. In this role, she manages ART patients, conducts cervical cancer screenings, and provides primary healthcare services. Lomanono previously worked as a registered nurse at the Community Health Intervention Programme (CHIPS), where she honed her clinical skills. Her responsibilities have also included tracking performance benchmarks, report writing, and initiating quality improvement projects aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery. Her extensive experience in community nursing, coupled with her hands-on approach to patient care, positions her as a valuable asset in the healthcare system and demonstrates her commitment to improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Research Interest

Lomanono Ngidie is particularly interested in public health research focusing on HIV care and management. Her current research project investigates the predictors of late presentation for HIV care among adults at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Clinic in Matsapha, aiming to identify barriers that prevent timely access to treatment. This research is critical, as early initiation of ART significantly improves patient outcomes and reduces transmission rates. Lomanono’s interest extends to exploring strategies for enhancing patient engagement, reducing stigma, and improving healthcare access for marginalized populations. She believes that understanding the sociocultural factors influencing healthcare behavior is vital for developing effective interventions. Her dedication to evidence-based practice drives her research pursuits, as she strives to translate findings into actionable improvements in clinical care and public health policies.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not explicitly mentioned in Lomanono Ngidie’s CV, her commitment to excellence in nursing and public health has likely garnered recognition within her professional community. Lomanono’s involvement in quality improvement projects and successful management of ART patients exemplifies her dedication to improving healthcare delivery. Her ongoing research efforts, particularly her manuscript under review in an international journal, reflect her ambition and potential to contribute meaningfully to the field. She is supported by strong references from experienced professionals in healthcare, which further underscores her reputation and capability. As she continues her academic and professional journey, Lomanono is poised to receive recognition for her contributions to nursing and public health in Eswatini and beyond, reflecting her dedication to improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Conclusion

Lomanono Ngidie is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her relevant educational background, extensive clinical experience, and a proactive approach to research. Her ongoing work in the field of HIV care is particularly commendable, as it addresses a critical health issue in her community. While there are areas for improvement, such as increasing her publication record and broadening her research experiences, her current achievements and skills position her as a promising researcher with the potential to make significant contributions to the field of nursing and public health. With continued growth and development, Lomanono has the capability to be a leading figure in healthcare research in Eswatini and beyond.

Publication top noted

  • Title: Predictors of late presentation for HIV care among adults at AIDS Healthcare Foundation clinic in Matsapha, Manzini Region, Eswatini πŸ₯
  • Authors: Lomanono N. Ngidie, Ruth Wahila, Phadaless Sinkamba πŸ‘©β€βš•οΈπŸ‘©β€βš•οΈπŸ‘¨β€βš•οΈ
  • Journal: International Journal of Africa Nursing Sciences πŸ“–
  • Year: 2024 πŸ—“οΈ
  • Publication Date: October 2024 πŸ“…
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2024.100788 πŸ”—

Eranthi Weeratunga | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Eranthi Weeratunga | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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.

Profile:

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 inNursingΒ 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 …