A lifetime of caring for frail and elderly patients in Bucks

Ana Pitt, a nurse within the Community Assessment and Treatment Service at Marlow, celebrates over 50 years of service working for the NHS in Buckinghamshire.

Ana began her career in 1974, training for her nursing certificate at Stoke Mandeville Hospital at the age of 19. After qualifying in 1977, Ana worked on spinal care and elderly care wards, then following the birth of her first child in 1984, she returned to work part-time.

In 1988, a new opportunity arose at Booker Hospital, an elderly care hospital with four wards and a unit where younger patients with disabilities could come for respite. It was during her time at Booker Hospital that Ana discovered her passion for elderly care and decided to pursue further qualifications.

In 1997, Ana moved to Marlow Community Hospital to continue her work in elderly care. She loved working on her ward in Marlow and it was there that she was promoted to ward sister. After 12 years, the ward was closed for refurbishment, and Ana spent a year supporting elderly patients in the Waterside ward at Amersham Hospital. Ana returned to Marlow Hospital in 2010 to build and lead the team based there.

Reflecting on her role at Marlow Community Hospital Ana said: “Returning to lead the team was one of the best times of my career. The team worked really well together, with everyone knowing their roles and functioning efficiently without needing constant direction. I believe elderly patients should be respected as individuals who have led interesting lives. I enjoy hearing their stories and witnessing the benefits of the care and rehabilitation they receive. Over the years, it’s been wonderful to see many of my patients, who initially could not walk, leave the ward walking and returning to their homes.”

In 2017, with the closure of the ward and the establishment of the Community Assessment and Treatment Service (CATS) at Marlow Community Hospital, Ana saw an opportunity to step back a little while still being keen to continue working with older people. Ana recalls that the Community Assessment and Treatment Service was initially difficult to establish, but after eight years, she reflects on how she has developed new skills, worked more closely with other professionals, and continued to support the frail elderly community.

Jenny Ricketts, Chief Nurse at Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, said: “Ana remains a valued and dedicated member of the CATS team, consistently demonstrating professionalism, kindness, and respect in her interactions with both patients and colleagues. We are sincerely grateful for her wisdom, continued commitment and for the significant contribution she has made over the years to the care of frail and elderly patients across Buckinghamshire.”