A member of the RAF has been thanked by clinicians at UHNM for helping to save the life of a patient

A member of the RAF has been thanked by clinicians at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) for helping to save the life of a patient.

Ryan Edwards, Senior Aviator Technician was helping on Ward 126 at Royal Stoke University Hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic when he noticed a patient who was choking.

Ryan said: “I heard the patient making growling noises so went to see if he was okay and realised pretty quickly that he was choking. I told my colleague to get some help while I leant him forward and begun performing back slaps.

“I think the nurses were the real stars. I knew hospital work was busy but working on the respiratory ward made me realise the sheer amount they do day-to-day – it’s never-ending for them. It felt nice to be able to help while we were there.”

Tracy Bullock, Chief Executive, said: “Ryan helped prevent serious harm coming to this patient and we want to recognise his fast, calm and professional action. Members of the RAF were of great assistance and support to our teams during the height of the pandemic and this is just one example of the difference they made to our patients and staff.”

Ryan has received an honorary Chief Executive’s Award in recognition of his life-saving action.