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Call for Concern (Martha’s Rule)

07385 116 532

Martha’s Rule: Detecting Deterioration

You know yourself or your loved one better than anyone. If you’re worried about a health condition getting worse, talk to us.

What is Martha's Rule?

We have introduced Martha’s Rule / Call for Concern to help spot any unexpected signs of deterioration early and give you the right to request a rapid review if you’re worried that your or your loved one’s condition is getting worse.
You may notice small changes before they show up in our routine measurements. These changes could be early warning signs of deterioration.

Call for Concern

Patient Wellness

How we monitor patients

While someone is in hospital, we regularly check their vital signs and other important health measurements. The frequency of these checks will depend on the patient’s individual condition and needs. Sometimes we may need to wake patients to do these checks.
In addition, we will also ask at least daily if patients are feeling better or worse. This is to monitor any unexpected changes in their condition.

What to do if you're worried
  1. First, speak to the team caring for you or your loved one

  2. If, after speaking to the care team, you remain worried and feel your concerns are not being addressed, use our Call for Concern service. Your call will go to the Critical Care Outreach Team in our hospital, who specialise in the care of critically ill patients. They will work with your or your loved one's care team to arrange any treatment needed or further review.

    The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Difference between Martha’s Rule and second opinion

Martha’s Rule allows hospital inpatients and their families to seek a rapid review if their condition, or the condition of a loved one, is deteriorating.

A second opinion is when you would like to see another consultant to discuss any diagnosis or treatment

Our commitment

We will regularly ask for your views and take your concerns seriously. We see you as a partner in the care we are providing and want you to raise any worries and concerns you may have.