Critical Care

Critical care is the direct delivery of medical care by a physician for a critically ill or critically injured patient. A critical illness or injury severely damages one or more vital organs that threaten the life of the patient.

Adventist Health’s critical care services include treatment of vital organ failure and/or the prevention of further life-threatening deterioration. Patients in this department are typically recovering from serious events such as complications from surgery, accidents, infections and severe breathing problems. Such conditions require close constant attention by our team of specially trained healthcare providers.

The critical care team

When in the critical care unit, you or your loved one will be cared for by a specially trained team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and other medical professionals. Staff schedules are carefully planned so that patients will always have someone close by.

Who works in the critical care unit?

• Doctors: Critical care doctors are trained in intensive care and related specialties such as anesthetics, cardiology and emergency medicine. They coordinate with the patient care team and organize your care plan.
• Nurses: Nurses can always be found in the critical care unit. These nurses are specially trained to treat critically ill and injured patients. They monitor patient vital signs, administer medication and help you feel as comfortable as possible.
• Respiratory Therapists: Respiratory therapists provide care for patients that have trouble breathing. They are responsible for overseeing any breathing-assistance devices you need and assessing lung capacity.
• Physiotherapists – A physiotherapist is responsible for exercising a your muscles so that they do not become too stiff or weak while in the hospital. They also instruct you on exercises you can do on their own to avoid aches and pains that can come after staying in bed for long periods.
• Dieticians: Nutrition can make a significant difference in your recovery. Dietitians analyze your nutritional needs and decide the best way for you to be fed.
• Pharmacists: Critical care pharmacists often accompany nurses and doctors on their rounds to supply patients with medication.

For family members

Having a loved one in critical care is a difficult experience. You can trust we are giving your loved one the best care possible. Meanwhile, waiting for their condition to stabilize is the hardest and most stressful part.

During this time, our nurses and critical care professionals will be monitoring your loved one round-the-clock to provide the immediate care they need. Throughout your loved one’s stay in critical care, we will provide you with honest and complete forthright updates about their condition.

We know caring for patients in critical care is important, but so is helping their loved ones. Our team of doctors, nurses, therapists and chaplains is ready to help support you during this difficult time.