What Is Intensive Care?
Your loved one has been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). The ICU provides special care from a team of experts.
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
The intensive care unit (ICU) is also sometimes called the critical care unit. Here patients receive constant care and close monitoring. Some hospitals may have more than one type of ICU. These may include a medical, surgical, cardiac, neurological, or pediatric ICU. A patient may stay in the ICU a day, a week, or longer.
A Team Effort
Although they work as a team, each of the people caring for your loved one has special knowledge and skills. Doctors plan your loved one’s care. Nurses do most of the hands-on care and monitoring. Others who may be on the care team are listed below.
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Respiratory therapists help with breathing problems.
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Physical therapists help patients improve strength and flexibility.
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Dietitians give advice about special eating concerns and nutrition.
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Social workers and case managers help the family with financial concerns, resources, and insurance.
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Clergy, such as a priest, minister, or rabbi, offer spiritual support to patients and family.
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Other support staff assist with tasks such as drawing blood, moving patients, or serving meals.
Publication Source:
Baggs JG, Norton SA, Schmitt MH, Sellers CR, Critical Care Clinics 20(3), The dying patient in the ICU: role of the interdisciplinary team, 38169, pp 525-540
Publication Source:
Cook DJ, Cecil Medicine, 23rd ed., Chapter 103 – Approach to the Patient in a Critical Care Setting, 2007, pp 717-718
Online Medical Reviewer:
Cineas, Sybil MD
Date Last Reviewed:
1/15/2007
Date Last Modified:
7/9/2002