Pediatric Intensive Care What to Know
Definition
Pediatric intensive care (PIC) is a specialized branch of medicine that provides medical care to critically ill children. PIC units are typically found in large hospitals and children's hospitals.
Conditions Treated
PIC units treat a wide variety of conditions, including:
* Respiratory conditions, such as pneumonia, asthma, and respiratory failure
* Cardiac conditions, such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects
* Neurological conditions, such as seizures, strokes, and traumatic brain injuries
* Gastrointestinal conditions, such as appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, and liver failure
* Trauma, such as injuries from car accidents, falls, and burns
PICU Team
The PICU team is made up of a variety of healthcare professionals, including:
* Pediatric intensivists, who are board-certified pediatricians who have specialized training in critical care
* PICU nurses, who are specially trained to care for critically ill children
* Respiratory therapists, who help manage the children's breathing
* Physical therapists, who help the children maintain their mobility and strength
* Occupational therapists, who help the children regain their independence in everyday activities
* Speech therapists, who help the children regain their ability to speak and swallow
* Social workers, who provide emotional support to the children and their families
* Child life specialists, who help the children cope with the stress of being in the hospital
PICU Stay
The length of a child's stay in the PICU will vary depending on the severity of their condition. Some children may only stay for a few days, while others may stay for several weeks or even months.
After PICU
After leaving the PICU, children will often continue to receive care in the hospital or at a rehabilitation center. They may also need to see specialists for ongoing care.
Outlook
The outlook for children who have been critically ill depends on the severity of their condition and the type of treatment they receive. With early diagnosis and treatment, most children are able to make a full recovery.