Emmanuel Ndubuisi, a nurse at Sunderland Royal Hospital, has been awarded a prestigious bravery award after saving a patient who accidentally set her head on fire while vaping in her hospital bed. The incident occurred last August when the woman, in her 50s, was using an e-cigarette while connected to a high-flow oxygen supply, causing a sudden and terrifying fire.
Immediate danger and heroic response
The patient was instantly engulfed in flames after her vape ignited the oxygen. Thick, choking smoke filled the ward as Emmanuel ran toward the danger. He isolated the oxygen supply and used a fire extinguisher to battle the flames, preventing a catastrophe. The fire melted the patient's oxygen mask and tube into her bedsheets and scorched the hospital floor.
Nurse's bravery recognized
Emmanuel admitted he was terrified but acted on instinct. He said: "On the day it was a really scary moment, and you never know how you're going to initially react. It was all about teamwork. Everyone acted so quickly. I was covered in smoke and terrified. I had to do one thing – either run off or turn that oxygen off." For his composure, he received the Cavell Star Award, which honors NHS staff who show exceptional dedication under pressure.
Hospital's praise and warning
Karen Sheard, director of nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals, praised Emmanuel: "This is a powerful example of our Trust's values in action. In the NHS, we often talk about our values – compassion, respect, teamwork and honesty, but this is about seeing those values lived in practice. Emmanuel represents the very best of our profession." The patient suffered burns to her head but survived. Hospital chiefs warned that the consequences could have been fatal and urged patients and visitors not to vape or smoke on wards. Jim Charlton, fire safety manager, said: "This shocking incident shows exactly why we ask our patients and visitors not to vape inside our buildings. We do that to keep everyone safe. This patient has been left injured by what happened, but it is fortunate it was not even more serious."
