Our trust is implementing Martha’s Rule, a vital patient safety initiative that gives patients, their families and healthcare staff, a clear pathway to raise concerns about rapid deterioration.
You know yourself or your loved one better than anyone. You may notice small changes before they show up in our routine measurements.
Telling us about these changes can help us detect deterioration early, so we can take action to prevent more serious health problems.
Please see the linked leaflets for detecting deterioration in both children and adults below:
Detecting deterioration in children
Detecting deterioration in adults
Detecting deterioration in children (easy-read-leaflet)
Detecting deterioration in adults (easy-read-leaflet)
What can you do to help us?
1. Speak Up – If you notice changes which could suggest a health condition is getting worse, please tell any of the staff looking after you or your loved one.
These worries might include:
- changes in temperature – hot or cold to the touch
- worsening pain, any changes to the skin (e.g rash)
- low energy, drowsy or sleepy
- levels of hydration
- changes in breathing
- new confusion
2. Ask – If you’re not satisfied with the response you have received, ask to speak to the nurse in charge.
3. Escalate – If, after speaking to the care team, you remain worried and feel your concerns are not being addressed, place a Call for Concern on 07976 767471.
For more on the Call for Concern safety service, please click here.
The Critical Care Outreach team will perform a rapid review and work with our clinical teams as needed.
We see you as a partner in the care we are providing. You are not bothering us – we want to hear from you.
To download posters – click below:
You can read further information about Martha’s Rule here: www.england.nhs.uk/patient-safety/marthas-rule/
