Penny Karakitsou is a Senior Lecturer in Public Health within the Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Society at the University of Chester, UK. With over 17 years of extensive experience in the nursing profession, she has developed a versatile skill set, excelling in various clinical departments, including emergency care, community health, and surgical nursing. Throughout her career, Penny has demonstrated a profound commitment to patient care and education, which is reflected in her role as a mentor to numerous student nurses, providing them with invaluable guidance and support as they prepare for their future careers in healthcare.

Before her tenure at Chester University, Penny worked as a pre-assessment nurse, where she focused on patient empowerment through comprehensive education about their health conditions and treatment options. Her dedication to proactive patient engagement not only enhanced the pre-operative experience for many patients but also fostered a greater understanding of their healthcare choices. Through her teaching and mentorship, Penny continues to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals, emphasising the importance of compassionate care and the role of public health in improving community well-being.