Pharmacist shares 'two words' that could get some seen quicker at A&E

Pharmacist shares 'two words' that could get some seen quicker at A&E Raj Patel says "it's specifically for somebody whose condition is drastically getting worse" Knowing what to say when someone in hospital suddenly takes a turn for the worse can be crucial, particularly if relatives feel their concerns are not being heard. A pharmacist with a large social media following has highlighted two words he says families should know about when worried that a loved one's condition is deteriorating. Raj Patel, known as the Straight-Talking Pharmacist on TikTok, where he has more than 100,000 followers, discussed Martha's Rule in a recent video. He said: "If you're sitting in A&E and someone you love is getting worse, these two words could help you get heard." The patient safety initiative allows patients, relatives and carers to request an urgent review by a different clinical team if they are worried someone's condition is worsening and feel their concerns are not being acted upon. However, it is not a way to jump the queue or obtain a faster assessment simply because of a long wait. Mr Patel explained: "But let me be clear, it isn't a way to jump the queue or complain about the waiting time. It's specifically for somebody whose condition is drastically getting worse." Martha's Rule was introduced following the death of 13-year-old Martha Mills, who developed sepsis in hospital in 2021 after being admitted with a pancreatic injury. A coroner later concluded that she would probably have survived had she been transferred to intensive care earlier, after her family's concerns about her deteriorating condition were not acted upon. Mr Patel urged people to explain exactly what has changed rather than simply telling staff that someone seems worse. He said: "So if your loved one suddenly becomes sleepier, confused or breathless or dramatically different, don't just say they're worse. Explain what has changed when it started and say, I'm worried they're deteriorating or getting worse.” NHS England says Martha's Rule is being implemented across acute inpatient services in England, with full implementation expected during 2026/27. Emergency departments are among the additional settings where the approach is being tested, but it is not yet generally available in A&E, so patients and relatives should check with staff at their hospital. The NHS initiative has already prompted changes to patient care, including urgent interventions and transfers to higher levels of care. Anyone concerned about a deteriorating patient should alert staff immediately, explain the changes they have noticed and ask how to request an urgent review if they feel their concerns are not being addressed.