UHNM staff hailed heroes for assisting with a roadside motorcycle accident

Two quick-thinking clinicians from University Hospitals of North Midlands have been hailed heroes for providing lifesaving roadside care to a patient who was involved in a motorcycle accident. 

The accident happened in Norton-in -Hales with Matron Gareth Hurley first on the scene after passing by on his way home. As time went on Gareth could see the patient was deteriorating rapidly and made the decision to call Chris Beckett, Advanced Nurse Practitioner for assistance.

Chris, who works for the Community Rapid Intervention Service (CRIS), had already left Royal Stoke for the day, but offered to help Gareth with on-going roadside care.

Essential checks were carried out on the patient using a CRIS kit and suspecting internal bleeding, Chris and Gareth successfully raised the air ambulance to transport the patient to Royal Stoke.

Gareth, who has worked at UHNM for 30 years, said: “I was so happy Chris was with me, the patient’s fast pulse indicated to me that there might be internal bleeding so it was vital we got the help we needed from everyone involved.”

Chris, who has worked at UHNM for 14 years, said: “When I arrived it was clear to see the patient wasn’t in a good way, which alerted me to call 999 and ask for a category three job. With the help of Gareth it was important to get the patient the help that they urgently needed.

“I am glad I could help in this situation.”

Chris and Gareth have been awarded a Hero Award in recognition of their actions.

Tracy Bullock, Chief Executive said: “It is brilliant how Chris and Gareth both worked together to provide urgent care to the patient who was involved in the accident. It’s a great reflection on UHNM what they did that day and what they continue to do every day. Congratulations to Chris and Gareth.”