Role and expertise
I am a neuroscience nurse with a strong clinical background in hospitals including UZA, Sint-Elisabeth Tilburg, and VITAZ. I combine my academic role as a lecturer at the University of Antwerp with research activities at Odisee University of Applied Sciences and ongoing clinical practice in neurosurgery.My expertise is situated at the intersection of clinical decision-making, dementia care, behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), and advanced nursing practice in the neurosciences. My PhD research (University of Antwerp, 2024) reflects this integrated focus.As co-author of “Zorgen is een keuze”, I seek - together with Hilde Lahaye - to open up conversations about essential themes in care: language, time, emotions, and the stories people carry. The book invites reflection and critical thinking, offering not definitive answers but space for meaningful doubt.
Motivation
I am driven by the belief that high-quality care emerges where attentive presence meets solid knowledge. My clinical experience in neurosurgery shaped my interest in patients with altered consciousness and brain injuries, where understanding behaviour is crucial for outcomes. This perspective broadened to include other vulnerable populations, such as people with dementia, mental health conditions, and frailty.At the core of my work is the commitment to recognise individual needs and to give voice to those who are often unheard in healthcare.
Research focus
My research investigates how healthcare professionals make clinical decisions in situations involving behavioural and emotional changes, and how these processes can be supported through evidence-based methods such as needs-based care.I have extensive experience in designing and evaluating non-pharmacological interventions for BPSD and in strengthening professionals’ competence in caring for people with mental vulnerabilities. In a newer research line, I focus on developing a frailty profile within spine surgery. My work is inherently interdisciplinary, involving close collaboration with professionals across geriatrics, neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry, and pharmaceutical sciences.
Teaching contributions
I contribute to teaching within the Master of Nursing and Midwifery, focusing on evidence-informed clinical practice and broader perspectives on care and health.
Services and collaboration
I support healthcare professionals and organisations with expertise in caring for individuals with mental vulnerability, particularly in dementia care and geriatric populations across different care settings. My work includes advising on complex clinical situations, supporting care organisation, and delivering lectures that challenge professionals to reflect on their choices, responsibilities, and autonomy in care practice.