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Martha’s Rule — escalation when worried ⚠️ 🩺
Martha’s Rule — escalation when worried ⚠️ 🩺
Deterioration can be noticed by a patient, relative or staff member before it is evident in a score; an independent rapid review is designed to prevent missed escalation.
🔎 Recognise
A patient, carer or staff member remains worried about worsening condition despite raising concerns with the clinical team. Listen to the specific change they describe.
🛟 First actions
Assess the patient and escalate immediate danger through resuscitation/critical care without waiting. Where implemented, explain and activate the hospital’s Martha’s Rule independent review route when concerns remain unaddressed.
🧪 Investigations and reassessment
Record the concern, observations, review request, decision and feedback, and continue ordinary clinical escalation in parallel. Use the local ward information for the actual contact number.
⚠️ Common pitfalls and escalation
Martha’s Rule is not a general second-opinion or complaints process; it is a route to urgent review for deterioration. Rollout varies by site and inpatient setting during 2026–27.
UK reference: NHS England Martha’s Rule. Focused editorial source check, 7 November 2026; this is not independent clinical or pharmacy sign-off. Verify current local policy, BNF/BNFC and specialist advice before treatment. Not a prescribing protocol.
Related guides: Unwell inpatient - first five minutes ⚠️ 🩺 · Handover using SBAR — FY quick guide ⚠️ 🩺
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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