Geraldton Nurse of the Year Vijil a steady hand for colleagues

Geraldton nurse Vijil Varghese has been named nurse of the year by his colleagues at Geraldton Health Campus.

Held annually, the local award celebrates a nurse or midwife whose efforts in providing excellent care for patients and support for their colleagues is deserving of special recognition.

Midwest Regional Director Nursing and Midwifery Marie Norris said Vijil was a calm and steady presence who inspires and influences others around him.

“Vijil is well-known at the hospital for his commitment to excellent care for his patients but also for supporting his colleagues, particularly coaching junior staff,” Ms Norris said.

“His steady, knowledgeable and cool-headed approach is something that’s so important in what we know can sometimes be a high-pressure environment.”

Ms Norris said one of the most important aspects of the award is that it is peer-nominated.

“To me, it’s really important that our winner is someone whose contributions in the hospital are being recognised by the people they work with every day and I couldn’t think of anyone more worthy of the award.”

Ms Norris said Vijil was an outstanding representative for the nursing and midwifery team who she said were committed to going the extra mile for Geraldton residents.

“I think we have an absolutely outstanding team, not only here in Geraldton but right across the Midwest.

“I’m immensely proud of them and everything they do to care for Midwest communities.”