The Ryan's Rule in QLD hospitals

When to use the Ryan's Rule?

You should use the Ryan's Rule in the following situations:

1. Unresolved health concerns:

   • If you or a family member feel that the patient's health is deteriorating or that something is seriously wrong and these concerns are not being addressed by the current medical team.

2. Lack of response:

   • If you have raised concerns with the healthcare staff, but there has been no adequate response or action taken.

3. Feeling ignored or dismissed:

   • If you feel that your concerns are being ignored or dismissed by healthcare providers and you believe that the patient is at risk.

4. Communication breakdowns:

   • If there is a breakdown in communication between the patient/family and healthcare providers and this is impacting the patient's care.

Where is the Ryan's Rule implemented?

Ryan's Rule is primarily used in Queensland, Australia, but similar escalation processes exist in other regions and countries under different names. It's essential to familiarise yourself with the specific procedures in your local hospitals.

Ryan's Rule is a critical safety mechanism in hospitals, designed to ensure that patients and their families can escalate their concerns and receive prompt medical attention when needed. It empowers individuals to advocate for their health or the health of their loved ones, ensuring that no significant health concerns are overlooked. If you ever find yourself in a hospital and feel that a patient's health concerns are not being adequately addressed, do not hesitate to use Ryan's Rule or the equivalent process in your area.

1. Initiate the request:

   • Inform a nurse or any member of the healthcare team that you want to activate Ryan's Rule due to your concerns about the patient's condition.

2. Explain the situation:

   • Clearly explain why you believe there is an urgent need for further medical review and what specific concerns you have.

3. Independent review:

   • An independent senior nurse or doctor will be called to review the patient's situation and concerns. This is done to ensure an unbiased evaluation of the patient's condition and the care being provided.

4. Immediate action:

   • If the review confirms that there are legitimate concerns, appropriate action will be taken to address the patient's health needs.

How to activate the Ryan's Rule:

1. Talk to a nurse or doctor about your concerns. If you are not satisfied, go to the next step.
2. Talk to the nurse in charge of the shift. If you are not satisfied, go to the next step.
3. Phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or ask a nurse to call the number for you and request a Ryan’s Rule clinical review. You will need to provide the following:
   • Hospital name
   • Patient’s name
   • Ward and bed number (if known)
   • Your contact number

Always remember to remain kind and respectful towards your health team during this experience.