Page 2 - Guide to PICU

Welcome to PICU

The PICU is a high observation/low stimulation unit that makes the safety of staff and patients

the top priority.

Working in PICU can be both highly challenging and immensely rewarding. You will be working
with people who are acutely ill and at their most vulnerable. You will also be working with
people who improve, right before your eyes. Most of our patients in PICU are kind, generous

and talented people when they are well. When they are not well, they may be confused,
angry, defiant or menacing.

This guide is meant to help you in your work with PICU patients. If you have any questions

about items in this guide, please speak to the Team Leader, Advanced Practice Clinical
Educator or Patient Care Manager.

Engaging your Patient

When patients first come to PICU they may be confused, afraid or angry. There are a few

general things you can say to put them at ease. Based on how they are presenting, one or all
of these statements could be helpful:

 Let them know you are here for them and want to help them.

 Assure them that we don’t like to keep people in hospital and our goal is to get them back
to their life.
 Let them know their safety is your number one priority.

 Even if they want you to go away, let them know you are available

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