NSW prisoner charged over escape attempt

A prisoner has been charged after his alleged escape attempt at a NSW hospital was thwarted by a correctional officer who gave chase and fired his gun.

The 34-year-old - who faces armed robbery charges - was under guard at Wollongong Hospital on Wednesday afternoon after complaining of abdominal pain.

Police say he punched a Correctional Services officer in the face and tried to steal his gun, then allegedly ran out to the street.

But his freedom was short-lived. A Corrective Services NSW spokesman said an officer chased the man and fired two shots, after which the man stopped.

No one was injured by the shots.

Police say a member of the public came to the officer's aid and the man was taken back into custody.

A correctional officer was treated for minor facial injuries.

Police have charged the prisoner with escaping from lawful custody, assaulting an officer and resisting an officer in the execution of his duty.

He was remanded to appear at Port Kembla Local Court on January 21.