CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System has four specialized critical care units with a dedicated intensivist team. Physicians known as intensivists practice exclusively in the intensive care units (ICUs), directing care for patients with critical illnesses and complex needs. Our surgical, medical, cardiovascular and cardiac ICUs are designed specifically to help those who could benefit from more intense, hands-on care. We provide both physical and emotional support by being there for patients and families when their needs are greatest.
The kind of medical care patients receive in the ICU depends on their medical needs. The care ranges from close blood sugar monitoring to managing ketoacidosis - a complication in which the body cannot use the sugar in blood for fuel), while others need life support such as ventilators to help them breathe.