Page 5 - Guide to PICU

Rules on the Unit

 There are times posted on the door for outgoing phone calls. Exceptions can be made but it
is best to keep everyone to the same schedule. Never give the patient the code for long
distance calls. If they have to make a long distance call, see if they have a calling card or
speak to the Social Worker or Manager.

 Washrooms should be kept locked so we can ensure we know when someone is going in,
ensure there is only one person in the washroom at a time, and can know whether they

should be checked on.
 As with 7M, patients are not allowed to enter each other’s rooms. Please monitor patients
touching each other. Patients should not be touching each other, kissing each other,
holding hands etc. There have been incidents of inappropriate sexual behaviour in the past.

Please remind patients they are at a vulnerable time and we do not want them to be taken
advantage of or do something they may view as non-consensual when they get better.

 There should always be visibility into the patient rooms. Patients are not allowed to
completely cover their windows.
 Never give the TV remote to a patient. Either change the channel for them or let them
change the channel and then take the remote back to the nursing station.

 Access to cell phones requires a doctor’s order in PICU. Patients with permission to use a
phone should only use it in their rooms, not common areas. Photos and video recording are

not allowed.

Remember: Inconsistencies in staff approach/decisions can contribute to escalating behaviour

Consent

 Knowing the rules around consent and assent are crucial on PICU. You need to know when

it is ok to give a prn and when you are not allowed. Sometimes we are not allowed to treat
and only a chemical restraint in an emergency situation is allowed.
 You need informed consent to give a regular medication or a prn. If the patient is incapable,
we need permission from the SDM to treat. We can only treat with the medications

consented to by the SDM.
 If a patient is appealing a finding of incapacity, we cannot treat for 48 hours. If the patient

does not file the paperwork within that time period, they are considered to be not
contesting.
 If a patient goes to a CCB hearing, we are not able to treat until we have a finding from the

review board. Even then, if they are appealing the finding from the review board, we are
not able to treat. Medications can only be given in an emergency situation, not prn.
 If you are unsure, ask your colleagues who regularly work in PICU.

4