Intensive Care Unit

Patient information

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The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at The Alfred is a specially staffed and equipped unit that provides care for patients with life threatening or potentially life threatening conditions. Our ICU beds are located on levels one and three of the hospital.

What we do

We have one of Australia's leading Intensive Care Units, admitting more than 3,000 patients a year. The Alfred ICU provides a number of statewide services.

The ICU is run and staffed by specialist doctors and nurses who have undergone extensive training in intensive care.

Other members of the team include:

  • Pharmacists
  • Dietitians
  • Physiotherapists
  • Occupational therapists
  • Speech therapists
  • Orthotists
  • Radiographers
  • Social workers

Who we care for

We care for and treat patients who are suffering from a serious illness or injury that could lead to severe complications if medical treatment is not received quickly.

What to expect

Find out more about what to expect when in ICU and after discharge from ICU.

For more information, visit the ICU website.

Commonly asked questions

What are the visiting times?
Can children visit?
How do I get information about my loved one?
Do I need to bring anything in for my loved one?
Why doesn’t my loved one talk to me?
Is there a difference between the two ICU areas?
How can I find out which ICU my loved one is in?

Infection control

Infection control in intensive care is extremely important because patients are very ill and therefore can pick up infections easily.

It is essential that all visitors follow our hygiene rules. The nursing staff can advise what you need to do.

When you walk into the ICU you will find a bottle of hand rub next to the door. This is alcohol-based and will evaporate. Please use this each time you come into the ICU and when you leave. This will help us cut down on infection.

Other ways to control infection:

  • Do not handle any equipment in the cubicle
  • Do not sit on patients’ beds
  • Do not bring flowers or plants into the unit
  • Do not bring any food or drink into the bedside area
  • If your loved one is being nursed in isolation, the staff will instruct you on what you must do

What to bring

For an overnight (or longer) stay

  • Dressing gown and slippers, or comfortable day clothes and shoes
  • Personal hygiene items, such as shampoo, shaving equipment, toothpaste and deodorant
  • Something to do, like a book to read, a magazine or an iPad or tablet with headphones

What not to bring for an overnight (or longer) stay

  • Your handbag, wallet, purse or large amounts of cash
  • Valuables, such as jewellery or watches
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In Case Of An Emergency, Call 000