Speaking up in hospital
How to be heard when something isn't right.
You don't need to be polite about your loved one's safety. Most hospitals have an escalation pathway — here's how to use it.
The escalation ladder
- Step 1: Tell the nurse looking after the patient. Be specific: "I'm worried because [what you're seeing]."
- Step 2: Ask for the Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) or After Hours Nurse Manager (AHNM).
- Step 3: Ask for the treating doctor. If they're unavailable, ask for the registrar on call.
- Step 4: Use the hospital's Patient Advocate, Patient Liaison, or PALS service — ask at reception.
- Step 5: REACH or Call for Help program. Most hospitals have a number families can call to escalate a clinical concern directly to a senior clinical team. Ask for it by name.
Words that get attention
"I'm concerned about a change in their condition." — triggers a clinical review.
"I want to speak to the consultant." — moves past the registrar.
"I'd like to make a formal complaint." — activates the complaints pathway and gets documented.
"I don't feel safe." — flags a safety concern; staff are trained to respond to this.
Document as you go
Write down: date, time, who you spoke to, what you asked, what they said. If things go wrong later, this record is evidence.
You are allowed to take notes in the hospital. You are allowed to bring someone with you to meetings.
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From bluetulipco.com/library/end-of-life/speaking-up-hospital — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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