The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at CHOC Hospital
Pediatric intensive care unit FAQ
This short video will describe what you can expect during your child’s stay at CHOC in the pediatric intensive care unit or PICU.
Once your child is taken to their room, their nurse and medical team receive a report about their current status. The physician will assess your child and discuss the care plan with you.
Your child’s nurse will place three small stickers on their stomach – called leads – that monitor their heart and respiratory rate. The nurse will also place a sticker with a red light on their finger to monitor oxygen. None of these hurt. Other equipment such as oxygen or an I-V may be needed. If your child requires specialized equipment, the nurse will explain what it is for.
Once your child is settled, their nurse will show you around the room and tell you about the daily routine.
A white board lists the date, your child’s name, the names of the physician and nurse, the plan of care, and patient goals.
Your child’s room includes a call light and a phone number to reach the nurse or clinical associate if needed.
If at any time you have a medical concern that you feel is not being addressed, you can call a Family Activated Rapid Response. Press 15433. With this call, a team will come and check your child’s condition and care for immediate medical needs.
A fold-out bed is provided for you to sleep on.
A nurse will take care of your child’s personal needs. They will also bring your child any comfort items they might want.
Your child’s care team will round every morning. Ask any questions you may have.
Your nurse will change at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. This is called shift change. At this time, the nurses will discuss your child’s care plan and information from the previous 12 hours about your child.
Your child may be transferred to another unit in the hospital if they are doing better but still need more care.
When your child’s doctor decides your child is ready to go home, their nurse will review their discharge paperwork and make sure your questions have been answered. This might take a couple hours.