Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

The Intensive Care Unit is a specialized unit designed to care for critically ill or injured patients whose conditions are life threatening and who require comprehensive critical care and constant monitoring. We provide evidence based specialized care to patients through state-of-the-art monitoring systems, critical care technology, and professional expertise. Our team includes Registered Nurses, Intensivists, Respiratory Therapists, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Pharmacy, Dietary, Ward Clerks, Social Worker, Volunteers, Chaplain and a Nurse Manager, who work together to provide compassionate, continuous, individualized patient and family care.  

Visitor Information

We, in the Intensive Care Unit, value the support and comfort that family visits provide for loved ones. Every patient’s situation is unique and our staff is committed to determine what is best for your loved one. ICU staff may need to minimize and/or restrict visitors to ensure the health and safety of each patient.

Your Responsibilities as a Visitor
•  Do not visit if you have any symptoms of: coughs, colds, fever, diarrhea, flu, exposure to communicable diseases (i.e. chicken pox).
•  Disinfect and wash your hands when entering and exiting the hospital and patient’s room
•  Follow mandatory precautions (i.e. isolation gowns and masks) as posted and instructed by staff
•  Use public washrooms located in the ICU waiting room or front lobby
•  Patient and family needs will be met on a case by case basis
•  During your visit, respect the privacy and confidentiality of our patients, property, policy and safety
•  Designate one family member or visitor to communicate information about the patient's condition
•  Inappropriate behavior such as verbal and/or physical abuse will not be tolerated

Other Contact Numbers
Patient and Family Experience Office  705-728-9802 Ext. 44510

Spiritual and Religious Care Provider 705-722-2781 Ext. 42438
Crisis Counseling Team/Mental Health Crisis Team 705-728-5044

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• Patient Information     

  Admission

•  Ask questions. Your nurse can help you find the right person to answer every question

•  Answer all questions as completely as possible in order to prevent unnecessary testing
•  Give the doctor the name of your family physician. With your permission, they can share ideas to provide you with the best care possible

Medication

Alert the ICU staff of:
• Any over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, medicines and alternative therapies (such as acupuncture) that you are currently using
• Allergies to dye, iodine, shellfish, radiology contrast materials, or anesthesia. As well as any allergies or reactions to medications you might have had in the past

• Be familiar with your medicines. If there is something new, or something you do not recognize, request information about it.

• When asking about medications remember these 6 things: 
  •  What is it for? 
  •  How often is it given? 

•  What are the side effects I should be aware of, and what should I do if I develop side effects? 
•  Are there any foods, drinks, or activities I should avoid while on the medication?
•  Will I be on this medication at home? 
•  Is it safe to take this medication with my other medications or supplements?

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   To request or inquire about any medication, ask your nurse of the pharmacist.
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• Nutrition

• Ask about your diet. If you are not eating ask: 
  •  Why am I not eating? 
  •  When will I receive food? 
  •  Should my diet change because of my illness?

  1. You may ask for a dietitian’s advice while in the health centre. Check with the nurse before eating foods that visitors bring in.
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  For Your Safety 

• Because of the intravenous (IV) and other hospital equipment, do not try to get out of bed on your own. Always ask for assistance. This will help in preventing falls and injuries.

1. Use the call bell for any needs. Don’t wait until the last minutes to call for help. The nurse may take several minutes to answer while helping other patients.

2. The top side rails of your bed may be left up to help you lift yourself up in bed or to hold when trying to sit up. Never try to climb out over the top of a side rail. If the bottom rails have been raised do not try to get out between the rails or over the top. If you need help turning in bed, ask the nurse to help you turn every couple of hours. This will help in preventing bedsores. Never stay in the same position for more than 2 hours.

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• Family Information

• What Should I Say to My Loved One? 
  Speak normally however keep in mind that the patient might not be able to respond to you. If the patent is alert, and has breathing tube in place, phrase questions that can be answered with yes or no nods or written on paper. Occasionally, over-stimulation may temporarily affect vital signs unfavorably. The nursing staff will instruct you on how you can be supportive in other ways.
       

  How Long Should I Visit?
  See above for visiting hours or consult the nursing staff.  In the case of young children in the ICU, having a familiar person present or near at all times may be helpful.

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• Should I Bring Anything From Home?

Familiar things are often comforting;  Photographs, cards, pajamas, robes, and slippers may be helpful. Children may have a favorite stuffed animal or blanket. however, you should check with the nurse before bringing anything into the ICU.