What is "intensive care unit"

alt. A hospital ward into which critically ill patients, in danger of dying, are admitted and closely monitored (abbreviation: ICU). n. A hospital ward into which critically ill patients, in danger of dying, are admitted and closely monitored (abbreviation: ICU).

n. a hospital unit staffed and equipped to provide intensive care [syn: ICU]

thumb|220px|Intensive care unit

An intensive care unit (ICU), also known as an intensive therapy unit or intensive treatment unit (ITU) or critical care unit (CCU), is a special department of a hospital or health care facility that provides intensive treatment medicine.

Intensive care units cater to patients with severe and life-threatening illnesses and injuries, which require constant, close monitoring and support from specialist equipment and medications in order to ensure normal bodily functions. They are staffed by highly trained doctors and nurses who specialise in caring for critically ill patients. ICUs are also distinguished from normal hospital wards by a higher staff-to-patient ratio and access to advanced medical resources and equipment that is not routinely available elsewhere. Common conditions that are treated within ICUs include ARDS, trauma, multiple organ failure and sepsis.

Patients may be transferred directly to an intensive care unit from an emergency department if required, or from a ward if they rapidly deteriorate, or immediately after surgery if the surgery is very invasive and the patient is at high risk of complications.

Intensive Care Unit or ICU A Matter Of Life And Death is a 2010 Television Factual Program that aired on the Seven Network. It was thought the show was axed with "The White Room", however it was later revealed by a Seven Spokesperson that the show would return at a later point. The show is narrated by Caroline Craig