The Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) is a specialized area in a hospital where critically ill

The Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) is a specialized area in a hospital where critically ill patients who have undergone major surgery receive intensive monitoring and treatment. Here are some key aspects of the SICU:

 

Purpose and Function

Post-Surgical Care: The SICU provides care for patients recovering from complex surgeries, including general, thoracic, trauma, vascular, orthopedic, gynecologic, and obstetric surgeries12.

Critical Monitoring: Patients in the SICU require close monitoring and support due to the severity of their conditions. This includes continuous monitoring of vital signs, advanced respiratory support, and management of complex medical issues 12.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Team-Based Care: The SICU team typically includes intensivists (doctors specializing in critical care), surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, clinical pharmacists, physical therapists, nutritionists, and social workers12.

Collaborative Care: This multidisciplinary team works together to provide comprehensive care, ensuring that all aspects of the patient’s health are addressed 12.

Advanced Techniques and Equipment

Ventilators and Respiratory Support: For patients with severe respiratory issues.

Hemodynamic Monitoring: To continuously assess heart and blood vessel function.

Renal Replacement Therapy: For patients with acute kidney injury12.

Patient and Family Involvement

Education and Support: The SICU staff often work closely with patients and their families to provide education about the patient’s condition and involve them in care decisions 12.

Emotional Support: Social workers and mental health professionals are available to support families during this challenging time12.

The Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) is a specialized area in a hospital where critically ill patients who have undergone major surgery receive intensive monitoring and treatment. Here are some key aspects of the SICU:

Purpose and Function

Post-Surgical Care: The SICU provides care for patients recovering from complex surgeries, including general, thoracic, trauma, vascular, orthopedic, gynecologic, and obstetric surgeries12.

Critical Monitoring: Patients in the SICU require close monitoring and support due to the severity of their conditions. This includes continuous monitoring of vital signs, advanced respiratory support, and management of complex medical issues 12.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Team-Based Care: The SICU team typically includes intensivists (doctors specializing in critical care), surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, clinical pharmacists, physical therapists, nutritionists, and social workers12.

Collaborative Care: This multidisciplinary team works together to provide comprehensive care, ensuring that all aspects of the patient’s health are addressed 12.

Advanced Techniques and Equipment

Ventilators and Respiratory Support: For patients with severe respiratory issues.

Hemodynamic Monitoring: To continuously assess heart and blood vessel function.

Renal Replacement Therapy: For patients with acute kidney injury12.

Patient and Family Involvement

Education and Support: The SICU staff often work closely with patients and their families to provide education about the patient’s condition and involve them in care decisions 12.

Emotional Support: Social workers and mental health professionals are available to support families during this challenging time12.

St. Martha's Hospital, Bengaluru