Other wards

Ward: PICU

Box: 7

Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Hills Road,

Cambridge,

CB2 0QQ

 

Enquiries: 01223 217 294 / 01223 217 715

 

About the ward

 

The Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Addenbrooke's is an eight-bed ward caring for sick children who need very close observation from doctors, nurses and other members of the PICU team.

 

Many of our patients are admitted as emergencies, or transfers from other wards at Addenbrooke's or other hospitals. Some of our patients have a planned stay with us after an operation

 

 

Finding the PICU

 

The PICU is on Level 3 of the hospital.

 

From the main hospital entrance: Turn right as you enter through the revolving door, turn left and walk past the hairdresser, across the corridor to the C and D ward lifts. Use the stairs or lift to go up to level three (one floor up from the Concourse). As you exit the stairs or lifts, turn left, then left again and C3 is in front of you. Please ring the doorbell to the left of the main door and state who you are visiting to gain access to the ward.

 

 

If your child is likely to be hospitalised for two weeks or more, you can get a discounted parking ticket from the main reception. This allows you to exit from the car parks for 14 consecutive days from the day you validate the ticket.

 

> Finding us - Parking ticket discounts

 

 

 

Who will be looking after my child?

 

As your child is very sick they need to be observed closely, so they will have their own specially trained nurse.

 

 

When can I see my child?

 

You are welcome to visit your own child at any time, but please understand you may have to wait when your child is first admitted. You will also be asked to leave the unit during ward rounds to maintain confidentiality.

 

 

What should I expect when I first see my child?

 

When you see your child they may be on special medicines to keep him or her temporarily still (paralysed) and asleep (sedated).

 

They will be surrounded by complex machinery. Their care may involve the use of this machinery and it may seem frightening. However each machine has a specific purpose and allows us to observe your child constantly without disturbing them. Don’t be concerned if you do not understand all the machines, your nurse will explain them to you when you feel ready.

 

 

 

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Is it all right to touch my child?

 

Yes, you play a very important part in your child’s care and can be involved as much as you wish. The sound of your voice will be reassuring to your child. Playing their favourite music or tapes will also be comforting and do not forget their special toy! It is important that your child has some quiet time too.

 

 

Who can visit?

 

Anyone can visit with parental/carer’s permission but it is requested that only two visitors at a time are at the bedside. Please inform your nurse if someone is to visit while you are not here. A door entry system is provided as security; please be patient if it is not answered immediately.

 

 

Can my other children visit?

 

Yes, it is important to remember your other children. We encourage brothers and sisters to visit and they should be told what is happening. We will help with this if you wish. The unit is not suitable for active children for long visits but there is a playroom and a play specialist is available.

 

 

When can I visit?

 

Parents/carers are requested to leave their child’s bedside during doctors ward rounds each morning (0930 – 1130 hours).

 

We encourage only parents/carers during rest period 1300 – 1430 hours. Other visitors will be asked to leave at this time.

 

 

 

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Can I stay over night with my child?

 

Yes, but not at your child’s bedside or in the parents room. We have accommodation nearby on the hospital site and there is family accommodation available in the Sick Children’s Trust Acorn House. This accommodation is free, enabling you to be near your child. Please ask your child’s nurse for more information about accommodation but please do not feel that you must stay as it is important that you allow yourself time to sleep whilst your child is in PICU.

 

 

What facilities are available for parents/carers?

 

We have a parent’s room with a public phone, tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge and a microwave. You may wish to bring supplies with you. There are shops and restaurants in the main concourse including a grocery store, newsagents and a bank with a cash point. The bank will cash other banks` cheques at no extra cost.

 

 

Looking after yourself

 

You will be encouraged to take regular breaks and meals as it is important that you remain fit and well during your child’s stay. You will need light comfortable clothes (there is a washing machine available and an iron should you require one). Don’t forget to bring something to do, for example a book etc.

 

We understand that many of you are a long way from home and as soon as possible most children will be transferred back to their referring hospital for ongoing care.

 

 

Support for you

 

We are all working together to care for your child so please ask your nurse or the doctor about any questions or worries you may have; we will always be willing to talk to you. You may find that you do not remember what you wanted to ask so write down any questions as you think of them.

 

Any financial worries can be discussed with a social worker and there is a Family Liaison Team available to offer you emotional support. There are chaplains of all denominations available and a chapel for your use in the main concourse which is open 24 hours a day.

 

 

 

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