Martha’s Rule is a patient safety initiative designed to support the early identification of deterioration in hospital patients.
It ensures that concerns from patients, families, carers and staff are taken seriously and acted upon quickly.
The initiative was introduced following the death of Martha Mills and other cases where early signs of deterioration were not fully recognised or escalated.
Why it exists
Martha’s Rule acknowledges that the people who know a patient best – their family, carers, or even the patient themselves – may be the first to notice worrying changes in their condition. Their insight can be vital in spotting early signs that someone is becoming more unwell.
Your right to request a rapid review
If you are worried that a patient in hospital is deteriorating, Martha’s Rule gives you the right to request an urgent clinical review. This ensures that a senior clinician assesses the patient promptly and takes any necessary action.