Critical Care Medicine

Remember, you are not alone. The ICU team is here to support you and your loved ones. Family and friends are important members of our team. The nurses, doctors and respiratory therapists are available 24 hours a day. Please discuss the patient’s wishes with them.

It is vital for the ICU team to know what medications your family member takes. Please provide a list of the patient’s medications including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

It is helpful for the patient to know people are there every day. Even if they are unconscious, it is important to speak to them as though they can hear you. Short, frequent visits are better than longer ones because the patient needs to rest often, and at regular times, to help them heal.

There are many things you can do that will help the patient stay comfortable, such as talking to them in a low voice, bringing in some favourite music, or moistening their lips with a swab. The nurse will be glad to show you what will be most helpful.

The ICU Family Room is across the hall from the ICU and can be used by families as a place to rest or have a meal.

We ask that one person be chosen as the family spokesperson/contact person for medical information. This person can be a family member or a friend. The ICU team will speak and give updates to this person and they can then pass the information on to the rest of the family and friends. Information over the phone will only be given to the spokesperson. There will be times when the doctor or nurse may not be available to come to the phone.

Please give the nurse all telephone numbers where the spokesperson/contact person can be reached.

As a patient recovers from or stabilizes after a critical illness, the patient will be transferred out of Intensive Care. The transfer may be to another floor in the hospital, or to another hospital closer to the patient’s home. The team works with the patient and family in the transfer planning to ensure the Power of Attorney and family members are aware of the future plan of care after leaving the ICU.

It is normal for patients and their families to feel some anxiety and fear about leaving critical care. We encourage patients and families to express their concerns to the bedside nurse or social worker who can arrange meetings with appropriate members of the team to address any questions or concerns.

Many people experience ongoing issues with their health after being in the ICU. These issues may include physical limitations, cognitive impairment, and mental health concerns. Anyone who has survived the ICU, even if they were healthy prior to their severe illness, can be affected by Post-ICU Syndrome (PICS). Learn more here.