Posted 14 September 2023 - 16:25
Posted 14 September 2023 - 16:25
News
‘We’ll move quickly’ to implement Martha’s rule, government confirms
Government pledges fast introduction of Martha’s rule in England, giving patients access to a second opinion, and the RCN is ready to assist in discussions on its development
Government pledges fast introduction of Martha’s rule in England, giving patients access to a second opinion, and the RCN is ready to assist in discussions on its development
The government has committed to introducing Martha’s rule in England’s hospitals to give patients the right to a second opinion.
The RCN welcomed the move as a ‘step in the right direction’ and said it would assist with discussions on how to make this work for nurses and patients.
The rule will provide a formal process for patients, families and carers to easily request a second opinion from senior medics in the same hospital, in the event of a suspected deterioration or serious concern.
The background to Martha’s rule
The rule is named in memory of 13-year-old Martha Mills who died after doctors failed to admit her to intensive care.
Martha was being cared for at King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust after sustaining a pancreatic injury in a fall from her bike while on a family holiday in Wales. She developed sepsis and died.
A coroner ruled last year that she would most likely have survived if doctors had transferred her to intensive care earlier. The trust has apologised for mistakes in her care.
Martha’s rule may vary for different types of care
Her mother Merope Mills met England’s health and social care secretary Steve Barclay on 13 September, after which he committed to introducing Martha’s rule in the NHS in England.
Mr Barclay told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that he will ‘move quickly’ to implement Martha’s rule, particularly in paediatrics.
He has tasked patient safety commissioner for England Henrietta Hughes to work with NHS England to look at proposals and build on evidence from trusts where there are similar standards in place already.
When asked if there will be one rule across the NHS he said: ‘There may be different circumstances, for example around mental health settings. We should be looking at this in the context of primary care.’
Likely similarities to Ryan’s rule in Australia
It is likely nurses will play a key role in the Martha’s rule process. Speaking in the Commons earlier this month Mr Barclay said it would be similar to ‘Ryan’s rule’ in Queensland, Australia – a three-step process that allows patients or their families to request a clinical review of their case by a nurse or doctor. Nurses are involved in every step.
Enabling patients and relatives to secure a second opinion: Ryan’s rule
Step 1 Families can talk to a doctor or nurse about their concerns. If they are not satisfied, they go to the next step
Step 2 Talk to the nurse in charge of the shift
Step 3 Relatives can use a designated helpline or ask a nurse to call it on their behalf and request a ‘Ryan’s rule clinical review’
Source: Queensland Government
‘Nurses know the importance of involving patients in their care’
An RCN spokesperson said: ‘We stand ready to assist with discussions around how nursing staff can share the experience of the nursing profession and offer advice on how to make this work for patients and staff alike.
‘Nursing staff know only too well of the importance of involving patients in every step of their care. It is vital their voices are listened to.’
Ms Mills said: ‘Our incredible daughter Martha lost her life needlessly, far too young. We hope this new rule will put some power back into the hands of patients and prevent unnecessary deaths.’
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