A BARNSLEY Hospital nurse whose quick-thinking saved lives on a busy labour ward has been praised by bosses and recognised with a special award.
It was looking like an ordinary day for labour ward co-ordinator Laura Chapman when a patient went into respiratory arrest - a life-threatening medical emergency where breathing completely stops or becomes ineffective - following opiate administration.
But Laura didn’t panic and instead raced into action with a cool head, immediately administrating naloxone - in what hospital bosses have described as a ‘truly life-saving intervention’.
A hospital spokesperson said: “Throughout the incident, she remained calm, focused, and compassionate, confidently leading the emergency response and supporting her team through an extremely stressful situation.
“Afterwards, Laura continued to shine by providing supportive debriefing for all staff involved, promoting reflection, learning, and best practice across the team.
“Laura embodies our trust values every day.
“She is a respected and valued member of the team, treating her colleagues with kindness and respect while consistently delivering best practice and exceptional patient care.”
Thankfully both the mum and baby are now doing well, much to the delight of Laura.
She said that it’s not something she expected to do on that day but was pleased she can help - and she added she couldn’t have done it without her team by her side.
She said: “This situation is something you hope you never find yourself dealing with when caring for women, birthing people and their families.
“However, myself and the team in the birthing centre were able to put into practice what we are trained to do - safely recognising and managing the emergency.
“I am relieved and grateful that there was a positive outcome, and the team are pleased to hear that mum and baby are both doing well.”
This week, she was awarded for quick-thinking with a ‘Brilliant Award’ by medical director, Dr Simon Enright.
The award is handed out to staff at the hospital who go ‘above and beyond’ for patients.
Patients, families, and staff can nominate individuals for exceptional care, compassion, or service.
The hospital spokesperson added: “Thank you, Laura, for your professionalism, leadership, and dedication.
“You truly make a difference.”
