Thoracic Intermediate Care Unit (TICU)
Exclusively for our patients, this specialized
nursing unit, one of the premier nursing units
in the country, consists of 19 private rooms staffed
by ACLS-certified RNs who have completed a specialized
thoracic surgical education program and received
advanced critical care training.
The TICU’s capabilities include care of
the stable, ventilated patient, as well as maintenance
of arterial lines, CVP lines, pressers, and patient-controlled
epidural infusion for pain control. We also perform
procedures requiring conscious sedation monitoring,
such as bedside bronchoscopy, and offer recovery
for selected patients admitted directly from the
thoracic surgical suite.
Patients will benefit from our multi-disciplinary
approach, crafted specifically for thoracic patients,
one that includes a team of physicians, nurses,
respiratory therapists, nutritionists, physical
therapists and social workers working together
to ensure seamless integration of our patients’
care.
The Unit’s staff focus on meeting the thoracic
patient’s special pain management and secretion
control needs. We maintain specialized equipment
to permit early post-operative ambulation, such
as adapted walkers that provide extra support
and contain receptacles for patient equipment.
In addition, a dedicated in-unit rehabilitation
facility is specially designed for our patients.
Recumbent bicycles and treadmills hold the patient’s
portable oxygen, chest tube and Foley catheter
during exercise, facilitating movement that enhances
recovery. This aggressive PT program helps patients
to avoid complications, and function more independently
at home.
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