Bed
ICU beds are large beds with many bells and whistles. They inflate to help keep a patient from getting sores from lying in bed. They have alarms to let a nurse know if a patient is trying to get out of bed, and they can even fold up into a chair.
Bedside Monitor
This monitor helps nurses understand the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels. It might make noises to let the staff know about changes. Click here to listen to what it sounds like. Heart rate = The number of times the heart beats each minute O2 Saturation = The amount of oxygen in the blood Blood Pressure = The amount of force your blood uses to get through your body. The number in ( ) is called the MAP
BiPap Machine & Other oxygen devices
These machines attach to a mask worn by the patient. They give oxygen by pushing air into the lungs.
Call Button
Each patient has a call button on a remote in the room. If the patient/family member needs a nurse, they should push the button and someone will arrive shortly. This can also be used as a TV remote and light switch.
Code Cart
Sometimes, patients become very sick and their heartbeat may become irregular, stop beating, or the patient may not be able to breathe. If this happens, nurses will bring a “code cart” to the room, which is a big cart with emergency equipment.
Computer
This computer is a work station for the nurses and doctors to look at the patient’s electronic chart at the bedside. The nurses also use it to scan the medications given to the patient.
IV pump
This is an infusion pump that gives the patient medications and fluids prescribed by the doctor. The pump will beep to notify nurses that it needs to be checked.
Pillows
You’ll notice many pillows in the ICU room. Nurses use many pillows to elevate patient arms and legs and to tuck under their bottoms to prevent sores.
Patients are repositioned every 2 hours.
Suction Devices
Suction devices are attached to the wall in the room. They may make hissing noises. Nurses use suction to help clear a patient’s mouth and throat.
Ventilator
This machine helps patients breathe when they are too sick or tired to breathe by themselves. It might make noises to let the staff know it may need to be checked.
White Board
The white board is updated at least daily. It can help you to find important information such as your room number, nurse and care tech’s names and phone numbers, the current date and your loved one’s daily goals. You can write your phone number on this board so it is easy for the doctors and nurses to get ahold of you.