Critical Care Medicine

Treating patients in the Intensive Care Unit

At St. Luke's, our board-certified critical care medicine physicians, or intensivists, and multidisciplinary medical team bring a wealth of experience to seriously or critically ill patients. With years of specialized training and a deep understanding of complex medical cases, our experts are equipped to handle the most challenging situations with precision and compassion.

What is critical care medicine?

Critical care medicine, also called intensive care medicine, is a medical specialty that focuses on treating patients with life-threatening illnesses or injuries. It involves:

• Close monitoring
• Advanced medical interventions
• Specialized equipment to stabilize and support vital functions

What conditions are treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)?

A wide range of conditions are treated in the ICU, including but not limited to:

• Heart failure
• Respiratory distress
• Septic shock
• Traumatic injuries
• Neurological emergencies
• Post-operative care for complex surgeries

How is critical care medicine different from standard medical care?

Critical care medicine is designed to manage complex, unstable conditions that require immediate attention to prevent organ failure and improve patient outcomes. It goes beyond standard medical care by providing continuous monitoring, intensive interventions and specialized treatments.

Who is on the critical care medicine team?

Critical care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals, including:

• Critical care medicine physicians
• Nurses
• Respiratory therapists
• Pharmacists
• Dietitians
• Additional specialists, as needed

What role does family play for a critically ill patient?

Family members are crucial partners in the critical care journey. They provide emotional support, help make important medical decisions, and play a vital role in the patient's recovery. Communication between healthcare providers and family members is essential to ensure everyone is informed and involved in the care plan.

This service is available at St. Luke’s Hospital