Elizabeth Sigmund, Care/Occupational Therapist

Professional Experience

I qualified as an Occupational Therapist in 1990. During my career I have worked mainly in the NHS in a variety of acute hospital, rehabilitation and community settings. I retired from the NHS in December 2022. Since 2015 I have also worked in the private sector and continue to do so. I have expertise working with clients who have a wide range of acute and longer term physical conditions including a variety of musculoskeletal, medical and surgical conditions.

Within my private sector roles I provide assessments and rehabilitation for clients with a variety of needs. This may include work for local authorities, charities and individual clients, carrying out assessments for equipment and minor adaptations to clients' homes, workplace assessments, hand therapy and general rehabilitation programmes. Clients referred have a wide range of conditions including frailty in older age, musculoskeletal problems, long term conditions. Others may be experiencing the aftermath of life changing events such as an injury/multiple injuries or requiring rehabilitation after an injury or hospital admission. I also undertake hand therapy assessments and treatment programmes.

During the Covid19 response in 2020, I was redeployed to a community hospital ward based role and had the opportunity to refresh my skills with in-patient assessment and discharge planning. I also increased my skills in use of remote assessment and explored options to deliver treatment and rehabilitation programmes remotely.

As an occupational therapist, my overall aim is to enable individuals to engage and participate as fully as possible in the roles and activities that allow them to lead an independent and fulfilling life. I am experienced in carrying out assessments to identify rehabilitation, care and equipment needs whether planning for hospital discharge, or in community based assessments. My experience includes working with individuals to enable them to adapt to life changing circumstances resulting from injury, illness or the effects of ageing that may result in functional deficits in mobility, personal care tasks such as the need to manage a stoma, bladder or bowel management system or difficulties with domestic, employment or leisure tasks.

Professional Development

In May 2017, I completed the BAHT Level 1 course and went on to complete two modules at Level II in 2023. I am a member of the British Association of Hand Therapists (BAHT).

I also regularly access on-line or work-based training sessions and carry out self-directed study relevant to my clinical role.