UHNM Chief Executive Award Winner: Sarah Franks

A receptionist from County Hospital whose quick thinking helped save the life of a member of the public has been praised for her actions.

Sarah Franks was leaving work in February when she was informed a member of the public had collapsed on the hospital’s car park.

After notifying security staff, Sarah attended to the patient herself and found him unresponsive with a head injury.

Sarah immediately started to perform CPR, and with help from a passer-by, was able to seek help from the hospital’s A&E department where he was able to receive further treatment.

Sarah was nominated for a UHNM Chief Executive Award by Sophie Reid, Complaints, PALS and Volunteers Services Manager and Becky Ferneyhough, Head of Nursing at County Hospital.

Sophie (right) said: “I genuinely believe the actions that Sarah took helped to save this patient’s life. Sarah has never been faced by a situation such as this previously and acted extremely courageously. As her line manager, I am extremely proud of her, and she should be proud of herself too, as the actions that she took ultimately helped to save this gentleman’s life.”

Sarah was presented with her award by Tracy Bullock, UHNM Chief Executive.

After receiving the award, Sarah said: “My first thought was helping the gentleman, and already knowing CPR, I was able to perform it. Without this I feel the outcome would have been different.

“After receiving care at UHNM I’m delighted that he is now doing well and seeing him recently I can’t believe it’s the same person.

“I feel shocked but also privileged to of received this award.”