The Intensive Care Unit at North Canberra Hospital cares for patients who require highly specialised treatment. This often happens after undergoing major surgery, following an accident or whilst suffering a serious illness.
Having a family member or close friend admitted to an Intensive Care Unit can be an overwhelming experience. We recognise the importance of family and friends in helping patients recover and welcome you to be involved with your loved one’s journey.
Information for carers and loved ones
The My Life After ICU website provides more information for patients, families and carers who have experienced ICU.
The website will help you can gain a better understanding of what an Intensive Care Unit is like and how it affects everyone, as well as hopefully make your time a little less traumatic.
How to contact us
The Intensive Care Unit’s telephone number is (02) 5103 6097.
Our email address is provided to patient family and support persons upon admission.
Visiting
There are current COVID-19 restrictions in place. Please make sure you read the restrictions before you come to the hospital.
Our unit is open to visitors 24 hours a day. Before you visit, please consider whether you are well.
Bringing coughs, colds or stomach upsets into the Intensive Care Unit can mean the difference between life and death for some of our most vulnerable patients.
As you enter the unit use the hand rub and make sure you thoroughly soak your hands. Use it on the way out too.
While you are visiting
- Make sure not to touch any equipment.
- Don’t sit on the bed.
- No photos or videos please, especially of the Intensive Care Unit staff.
- We encourage you to touch and communicate with your loved one. You may like to brush their hair or hold their hand. You can use headphones or earphones to let them listen to music.
ICU waiting area
If you are spending a lot of time at the Intensive Care Unit you may like to bring something to help you pass the time such as a book or mobile device. It’s important to look after yourself too. Remember to stretch your legs, take breaks, get fresh air, drink enough water and eat well as much as possible.
We can provide you with support or help you contact the support you need.
After the Intensive Care Unit
When you no longer need intensive care support, we will transfer you to a general ward.
To make sure the transition is smooth, our clinical handover processes ensure we communicate your progress and your health needs to the staff on the general wards.
Recovery times are different for everyone, and patients who have been in the Intensive Care Unit may find that they spend a longer time recovering.
Preparing to go home
Going home can be exciting and even a little worrying.
Your care team will consult with each other to make arrangements for your discharge.
We will make sure you are medically ready and have all the support you need to continue your recovery at home, or in some cases, you may be going to a rehabilitation hospital to help you continue your recovery.
Support
It can be difficult and emotional to see your loved one in the Intensive Care Unit. If you have questions or need support, we can help.
We have information about our Pastoral Care Service.
Clergy from most denominations can be contacted on request. Please ask our staff to help you arrange a visit.