Nicola Heaps, one of our nursing experts, appeared in court in July this year. The case related to...
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Chrissy Stevens
Occupational Therapist & Care Expert
Qualifications
Dip Occupational Therapy
Specialisms
- Neurology including Brain Injury
- Orthopaedics including Amputation
- Mental Health
Introduction
Since qualifying as an Occupational Therapist in 1981 I have gained a significant amount of experience of working with a variety of client groups within both Health, Social Services and the charitable sector. In recent years I have primarily worked with adults with mild to moderate acquired from a range of causes and conditions including:
• Cerebrovascular accidents, for example, stroke and subarachnoid haemorrhages.
• Falls.
• Brain tumours.
• Road traffic accidents.
• Infections.
Clients present with a range of physical, cognitive and emotional impairments and I have considerable experience in assessment and treatment of these restrictions, working to restore function and improve quality of life, as well as supporting carers.
I have also worked with clients with the following conditions in both hospital and community settings:
• Degenerative neurological conditions, including Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease and Motor Neurone Disease.
• Orthopaedic conditions, primary lower limb elective surgery, fractures and amputations.
Consequently I am confident in my assessment skills and recommendations regarding care, therapeutic needs, specialist equipment, adaptations and housing needs. I also have experience of working alongside care teams, agencies and case managers and regularly liaise with primary carers in my current post.
In addition, I have undertaken work as an Expert Witness for a number of years and have prepared a large volume of quantum reports on care and occupational therapy needs for both Claimant and Defendant solicitors. I have attended court and given evidence on several occasions.
I accept instructions from both claimant and defendant solicitors and insurers. I have undergone formal training in the medico-legal process and am fully aware of my responsibilities under Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) pertaining to expert witnesses.