Intensive care unit (ICU)

An intensive care unit (ICU) is a section of a hospital or health care facility that provides care for patients with life-threatening health problems. These patients need constant monitoring and treatment, which may include support for vital functions. Common types of equipment used in the ICU include cardiac monitoring, mechanical ventilation, feeding tubes, intravenous lines, drains, and catheters. The ICU may also be called an intensive therapy unit or critical care unit.

Review Date: 8/29/2024
Reviewed By: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Roy and Diana Vagelos Professor in Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, New York, NY. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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