Glossary term · Hospital & care
Intensive care unit (ICU) (also: ICU, Critical care unit, ITU): An intensive care unit is a specialist hospital ward that treats and closely monitors people who are very ill, often with support for one or more organs.
An intensive care unit, or ICU, is a specialist ward for people who are very ill and need close monitoring. The NHS says there is normally one nurse for every one or two patients. Many patients spend planned time in intensive care after major surgery such as heart surgery or a transplant. Families travelling with a patient should know what to expect.
Why might a patient go to the ICU?
The NHS lists major planned surgery, serious infections, heart attack, stroke and serious injury among common reasons. After some operations a short ICU stay is part of the normal plan. Your surgeon will tell you whether to expect it.
What equipment will we see?
- A ventilator to help breathing, if needed.
- Monitors for heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen.
- Drips and pumps for fluids and medicines.
- Feeding tubes, drains and catheters.
Patients may receive painkillers and sedatives. They can look swollen or seem drowsy or confused. Staff can explain the tubes and alarms.
Can the attendant visit?
The NHS says visiting is often flexible but numbers at the bedside may be limited. Hands must be cleaned on entry and exit. Some items, such as flowers, may not be allowed. Indian hospitals set their own visiting rules, so ask the unit.
Costs and planning
Ask whether ICU days are charged at a different rate from ward days, how many ICU days your estimate assumes and the rate for extra days.
Questions people ask
Who makes decisions if the patient is sedated?
The NHS explains that a designated decision maker or an advance decision may apply, and in emergencies staff decide what care is in the patient’s interests. In India, discuss with the hospital in advance who can give consent for the patient, especially if the attendant is not next of kin.
Will the patient remember the ICU stay?
Some do and some do not. The NHS notes that problems after intensive care can include weakness, sleep problems, low mood and memory difficulties. Mention any of these to the treating team and your doctor at home.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. How we write and check.