Rebecca goes to the rescue as she saves swimmer with CPR skills 

Our colleague, Rebecca Johnston has been praised after helping treat a swimmer when they became unwell while swimming off Roker beach. 
 

Rebecca, who works as a Theatre Support Worker at Sunderland Royal, was out for a walk when she heard calls for help. A passer-by had started cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Rebecca took over and put the training she has from working at the Trust into practice. 
 
Rebecca supported the patient while an ambulance was called.

It arrived shortly after along with a helicopter from the Great North Air Ambulance. The patient was taken to hospital by road for further treatment. 

Rebecca has sent her gratitude to the others also offered help and got hold of a defibrillator, which was used to offer first aid

She has since been contacted by the patient to offer their thanks as they recover.

Rebecca’s team leader Tracy Simmons said: “I think a huge well done should go out to Rebecca. 
 
“She has had contact from the patient concerned thanking her for her help as without her quick response the outcome could have been very different.” 
 
Rebecca added: “It was a big blur, but I know it was the right thing to do and it feels good to know I helped. 
 
“CPR is part of our training and this shows how important it is to learn these skills.” 

Did you know the Trust offers basic CPR training for non-clinical staff?

Look out for information about Restart a Heart in future communications. It might just save a life!