In the ICU, you might come across medical terms or abbreviations that are new to you. Here’s a list of frequently used terms along with their definitions.
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ARDS
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a condition where the lungs are unable to function properly, causing rapid and shallow breathing.
Artificial Kidney Device
This device extracts blood from the patient, purifies it through dialysis, adds essential substances, and then returns the cleaned blood to a vein.
Ventilator
A ventilator assists or takes over the breathing process by delivering air and oxygen to the lungs, either supporting the patient’s own breathing or doing it entirely.
Catheter
A catheter is a flexible tube used to access a body cavity or vessel for fluid passage or to expand a passageway. It is commonly used for draining urine from the bladder.
COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) includes various chronic lung conditions that block airflow. It most often combines chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Critical Care
Critical care is a specialized area of healthcare focused on patients with severe, life-threatening conditions or injuries.
Critical Care Team
The critical care team comprises various healthcare professionals who manage critically ill and injured patients, including intensivists and critical care nurses, and may also include physiotherapists, pharmacists, technicians, social workers, and clergy.
DoCC
Department of Critical Care (often synonymous with ICU).
Endotracheal Tube
This tube is inserted through the nose or throat into the windpipe, sometimes referred to as an ET Tube.
Haemofilter
A haemofilter assists the kidneys by filtering blood to remove excess fluids and waste products before returning the cleaned blood to the patient.
ICU
Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a hospital section equipped with the necessary technology, medical, and nursing staff for providing intensive care.
ITU
Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) – essentially the same as the ICU.
Intensivist
An intensivist is a physician specializing in the care of critically ill and injured patients.
Intravenous
Intravenous refers to substances administered directly into a vein, such as medications or nutrient solutions.
Monitor
A monitor is an electronic device used to track and manage vital signs such as heartbeat, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.
Severe Sepsis
Severe sepsis is a serious infection that leads to dysfunction in the heart, blood vessels, and cells.
Speaking Valve
A speaking valve is used with a tracheostomy to enable vocalization as the patient's condition improves.
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy involves placing a tube into the windpipe through an incision in the throat, allowing for more comfort and the possibility of the patient being awake.
Urinary Catheter
A urinary catheter is inserted into the bladder to monitor urine output.
Ventilator
A ventilator aids in breathing by supplying oxygen to the lungs.
Weaning
Weaning refers to the process of gradually reducing a patient’s reliance on a ventilator as their condition improves.