Vivien Biggs specialises in:
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Advanced clinical assessment
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Initiating and interpreting diagnostic tests
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Prescribing medicines
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Arranging referrals to health specialists
Background and Experience
Briz Brain & Spine has long recognised the need for individual and co-ordinated nursing care for neurosurgical patients, developed the role of Neurosurgical Nurse Practitioner to achieve this. Our Neurosurgical Nurse Practitioner works in collaboration with neurosurgeons and other medical specialists, adding nursing expertise to our approach to coordinated care.
Vivien brings her extensive neurosurgical and neuro-oncology experience to the practice to meet our 'best of care' standards, supporting patients during the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation stages of treatment.
WHAT WILL THE NEUROSURGICAL NURSE PRACTITIONER DO FOR ME?
Our Neurosurgical Nurse Practitioner will visit you and your family during your admission to hospital. She will co-ordinate your care between your treating medical specialists, hospital ward staff and other treatment providers such as physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists etc. Our Neurosurgical Nurse Practitioner will provide education and support to you and your family and will also be available to you following discharge from hospital should you require additional assistance or support. A formal follow-up consultation after discharge will be arranged.
WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT FOR ME TO HAVE THIS NURSE CARE FOR ME?
All conditions affecting the brain are very complex and have a great impact on both the patient and their families. Many research studies involving patients with neurosurgical conditions, recommend that a key health professional be assigned to patients and their carers to assist them through their treatment.
In the area of neuro-oncology research studies and published clinical guidelines¹ have shown improved health outcomes for brain tumour patients that receive individual nursing care during the time of their treatment. Our commitment to this role remains steadfast and we believe it is a key feature of our clinical services.
¹Australian Cancer Network Adult Brain Tumour Guidelines Working Party. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Adult Gliomas: Astrocytomas and Oligodendrogliomas. Cancer Council Australia, Australian Cancer Network and Clinical Oncological Society of Australia Inc., Sydney, 2009.