A Perth -based senior respiratory nurse specialist was proud to receive a special 40 years’ service award.
Ruth Houston was inspired to start her nursing career by her family, where there was a long history of working in healthcare and nursing services.
She began her nurse training at Thomas Guy School of Nursing in London six weeks after leaving school in Wales.
After qualifying as a staff nurse in 1984, Ruth moved to Scotland to become a senior staff nurse at Perth Royal Infirmary before taking on nursing posts in primary care and with the former Perth and Kinross Community Health Partnership.
Ruth then went on to work as a primary care respiratory nurse before moving into her current role as a senior respiratory nurse specialist at Perth Royal Infirmary.
She was presented with a certificate and vouchers in recognition of 40 years service to the NHS.
Speaking this week, Ruth said: “Nursing has changed a lot over the years.
“But even with vast technological, research, administrative and role developments, nursing remains the same compassionate, evidence-based, and person-centred career I embarked on more than 40 years ago.
“I have enjoyed every part of my journey so far and plan to continue for some time yet.”
Colleague Zoe Simpson, respiratory specialist nurse, paid tribute to Ruth and pointed to her “wealth of knowledge and expertise”.
She said: “This is an amazing achievement but no surprise. Ruth’s enthusiasm for respiratory nursing alongside the desire to learn is immense. She has a wealth of knowledge and expertise shared with her patients, families and colleagues across NHS Tayside.
“It’s a testament to her passion and dedication to nursing that she continues to be an extremely valuable asset to our team after 40 years of service. We’re very lucky to have her.”
Lawrie Smith, interim senior nurse for elective medicine, said that Ruth’s care of the respiratory patients across Tayside is so valued.
“She has supported and touched many lives – both patients and nurses who she has taught and worked with,” Lawrie said. “What an amazing achievement to be at 40 years of service and still be powering forward with enthusiasm and real passion for this role.”
