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Patients |
Visiting an intensive care unitWhat an ICU looks like ICUs can vary in size. They may be small with four to six beds or they may be larger with twelve or more beds. ICUs do not have separate male and female sections but efforts will be made to ensure that privacy and dignity are maintained. Entering an ICU You may have to press a buzzer and speak to a receptionist or a nurse on an intercom to gain entry to an ICU. Some ICUs have a reception desk near the entrance. Unless you are told otherwise, you should always check with a member of staff before entering. Is an ICU noisy? The noise levels in an ICU can vary but it can be quite noisy, especially during the day. There may be beeping noises from some of the equipment and even an occasional alarm sound. This is normal and does not necessarily mean that something is wrong. Will I recognise my loved one? Your loved one may look very different from the last time you saw them. Their bodies may be bruised or swollen if they have suffered injuries. They may be attached to lots of equipment. The doctors and nurses will be able to tell you what to expect. Intensive care units may be found in hospital buildings which are old or new. The age of the building has no bearing on standard of care which should be uniformly high. Can I touch my loved one? Tubes and wires often surround a patient in an ICU. It is usually possible to touch your loved one but it is sensible to ask a nurse first. Can I talk to my loved one? Patients in ICUs are often unconscious, at least during the early part of their treatment. This is often because they are being given drugs to make them sleepy and comfortable. A patient may be able to hear even if they cannot respond. Nursing and medical staff usually talk to unconscious patients and tell them what is happening. Feet free to talk to your loved one and let them know that you are there. It is normal to feel upset at seeing someone you love in an ICU. It is understandable if you find it hard to cope. The staff are there to answer any questions you may have. You may find it helpful to have someone with you.
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contentEmergency admission |
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