The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) is a place for children who are critically ill and need round-the-clock medical attention. The pediatric intensive care unit focuses on children from infancy to 21 years of age.
What is pediatric intensive care?
Pediatric intensive care units are areas in hospitals that provide the highest level of care to children who are critically ill or injured. Pediatric intensive care units offer expertise in advanced therapies, respiratory support, monitoring and administration of medications that require close medical oversight. The PICU is staffed by specially trained nurses and doctors. PICUs provide care 24 hours a day, and have up-to-date technology to closely monitor patients and respond quickly if their condition changes.
Pediatric intensive care is for children who suffer from:
Children who recover from complex surgeries are often sent to the PICU to be sure they get the highly skilled care they need to get better. Other conditions include:
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Acute critical illness
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Burns
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Organ failure
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Serious injuries from accidents
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Severe neurological illness or injury
Doctors will work with patients and parents to determine the best services for their case.
Pediatric intensive care process
Parents have constant support by the staff who are available to answer questions. Many times patients in the PICU receive treatment with corrective surgeries. Other non-invasive options may be right for your child’s condition. Children will be moved to the pediatric unit once they are no long in critical care. The pediatric unit has a less monitored setting and activities to accommodate patients who are more active.