Nurse Razia Noreen has been recognised for her extraordinary courage during the recent fire at the neonatal ward of the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences in Islamabad.
As flames spread through the ward, she reportedly put her own safety at risk to reach a newborn and bring the baby to safety.
Her quick response came during an extremely dangerous situation, when vulnerable newborns and hospital staff were exposed to the rapidly developing emergency.
For the families whose children were being cared for in the ward, the actions of medical staff became critical in protecting patients.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the Sitara e Khidmat for Razia Noreen in recognition of her actions during the PIMS fire. Alongside the national civil award, she will receive a cash reward of Rs10 million for the courage she demonstrated while responding to the emergency.
The prime minister praised Razia’s bravery and dedication, describing her actions as an example of selfless service during a critical situation.
The recognition acknowledges not only the successful rescue of a newborn but also the personal risk she accepted while carrying out her professional duty.
Razia’s story has resonated particularly strongly because newborn patients are among the most vulnerable people inside a hospital. Unable to protect themselves during an emergency, they depend entirely on medical professionals and caregivers to act quickly when their safety is threatened.
Nurses are often among the first healthcare workers responding when patients require immediate assistance.
Their responsibilities can become even more demanding during emergencies, when every decision can have life changing consequences and staff must balance patient safety with their own.