Are you worried your child is getting sicker?
We want to work with you to ensure your child gets the best care possible.
REACH is a system that enables patients, parents and carers to escalate concerns if they are worried that your child is getting sicker while in hospital.
You know your child best. We want to work with you to make sure your child receives the best care possible.
| RECOGNISE | Let the nurse caring for your child know you are worried. Our staff understand that you know your child best, and it is important you let us know when you notice changes. We can then work together to get your child what they need. |
| ENGAGE | If you are still worried that your child needs more help, speak to the nurse in charge and let them know why you are worried. |
| ACT | If you are still worried, you can request a nurse call a “Clinical Review”. This means a doctor involved in your child’s care will see your child and speak to you. |
| CALL | If the Doctor has seen your child and you are still very worried, you can ask a nurse to call a “Rapid Response”. This means your child will be seen by a team of people very quickly. |
| HELP | You can dial “2222” on any of the Hospital phones at any time and make a REACH call. Dial “2222” on any Hospital phone to make a REACH call. |
Making a REACH call
Making a REACH call is like calling ‘000’ for an ambulance when you are at home.
Dial 2222 on any Hospital phone at any time. When the operator answers, tell them:
- You want to make a REACH call.
- The name of your child’s doctors.
- The ward and bed number your child is located in.
This information allows the operator to get a team to see your child very quickly. Making a REACH call is like calling ‘000’ for an ambulance when you are at home.
Will I upset staff if I use REACH?
No. Staff understand that you know your child best. We need to work together to care for your child. If you are worried that your child is getting worse, REACH out to us.
What if my child isn’t getting sicker but I have concerns?
Raising concerns helps us to become aware of issues, find solutions and improve the care that we provide to both patients and families. We recognise this isn’t you being difficult, it’s a normal part of our service delivery.
Most concerns can be addressed effectively by discussing the issue(s) with the team leader or manager of the area you are located in. If you don’t feel you are able to do this directly, the Patient Friend can help you.
Alternatively, you can do this online using our Complaints and concerns webform