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Transfer of recovering patients

Patients are usually transferred from an ICU when they are able to breathe on their own and no longer need the other specialist skills of the ICU team.

Where the patient is moved will depend on the nature of their illness or injuries. Some patients will require further specialist help to assist their recovery. For example, if a patient has a serious head injury o a spinal injury they may be transferred to a unit which is equipped to deal with their particular needs.

Most patients are transferred to a ward within the hospital. Young patients, up to the age of 15, are usually transferred to a children's ward.

There will be fewer nurses, procedures and less equipment on a ward compared with an ICU because a patient does not require the any longer. The more "normal" atmosphere is an important step towards recovery and rehabilitation.

Patients often do not remember being in an ICU. But sometimes all the tubes and machinery, the unfamiliar surroundings and the actual illness/injuries they have suffered can cause a patient to feel agitated and confused. You can help by trying to be calm and reminding them of things which are familiar to them.

Talk to the nursing and medical staff if you or your loved one are worried about the transfer.

content

Emergency admission
ICU and what to expect
Visiting an ICU
ICU equipment
staff in ICU
Operations
Drugs in ICU
Practicalities when visiting
Waiting for loved ones recovery
If a patient dies
Transfer of recovering patients
Long-term issues
Sources of help

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