Intensive care

An intensive care unit (ICU), also sometimes known as a critical care unit, or an intensive therapy department, is a special ward that is found in most hospitals. It provides intensive care (treatment and monitoring) for people who are in a critically ill or unstable condition.

People in ICUs need constant medical support to keep their body functioning. They may not be able to breathe on their own and they may have multiple organ failure. Medical equipment takes the place of these functions while the person recovers.

When intensive care is used

There are several circumstances in which a person may be admitted to intensive care. These include after surgery, an accident or a severe illness. ICU beds are a very expensive and limited resource because they provide:

• specialised monitoring equipment
• a high degree of medical expertise
• constant access to highly trained nurses (usually one nurse for each bed)

Some ICUs are attached to areas that treat specific conditions. Others specialise in the care of certain groups of people. For example, an ICU can specialise in:

• nervous disorders
• heart conditions
• babies (neonatal intensive care or NIC), for example, for babies born with serious conditions, such as heart defects, or if there is a complication during the birth
• children (paediatric intensive care, PIC), for children who are under 16 years of age

ICUs can be daunting

Being in an ICU can be a daunting experience, both for the person who is in hospital and for their family and friends. The healthcare professionals who work in ICUs understand this. They are there to help the person who is in intensive care, as well as offering support to their families.