Intensive care ICU
Continuous monitoring and support of vital functions when one or more organs are failing.
Who is usually sent here
Nobody comes here by choice — patients are transferred from emergency, theatre or another ward.
What this specialty does NOT cover
Most of the family’s work here is holding information and deciding on behalf of someone. Choose ONE person as the point of contact so the story does not fragment.
What a first visit usually involves
There is usually a fixed time each day to speak with families — ask what that time is on day one.
Bring with you
A medicine list, identity documents, and any written statement of the patient’s wishes if one exists.
Worth asking
- What is different today compared with yesterday
- What are we hoping for over the next few days
- Who should I ask, and at what time