Phyllis Wilkieson retired from the role of Chief Nurse for Acute Services earlier this year after more than 36 years of working in Forth Valley.
She started her training as a Registered Nurse in 1985 at the Glasgow South East College of Nursing, based in the former Victoria Infirmary. After joining NHS Forth Valley in April 1988, she became a staff nurse after transferring from the former Lochgreen Hospital in Falkirk.
A reference suggested that Phyllis was “A very good staff nurse who shows a caring manner to the elderly patients and anticipates their needs. Work is of a high standard. Has good leadership qualities and delegates and controls junior staff well. Can always be relied upon. Has a pleasant manner and is approachable at all times. Conforms to hospital rules of dress and behaviour. I have no knowledge of any criminal convictions.”
She then moved to work in the former Orchard House Hospital in Stirling where she became a ward sister in January 1991. Five years later, Phyllis started her MBA and continued with a range of training and development activities – including leading a project exploring and developing the role of Health Care Support Workers in inpatient wards.
Phyllis became a Clinical Ward manager before taking up the post of Clinical Co-ordinator and later being promoted to the post of Lead Nurse in the Intermediate Care and Rehabilitation Unit. During this time Phyllis worked with the Stroke Unit to achieve a Charter Mark – a significant achievement for the Unit.
Phyllis then undertook the role of Head of Nursing before being appointed as the Chief Nurse for acute services. She also worked as Interim Director of Acute Services for a period of time before returning to her role as Chief Nurse.
During her long and successful career, Phyllis showed great leadership and professional nursing support to help develop and deliver high standards and quality of care. She has led teams across the organisation and made a major contribution to the development of nursing services for the people of Forth Valley.
After taking a well-earned holiday in Italy, Phyllis said she is looking forward to the freedom of waking up each day and not having to go anywhere!
