Each year, a minimum of 40,000 babies in U.S. are affected with congenital cardiovascular diseases. Out of this, nearly 25% require invasive medical intervention in the first year of life according to data released by American Heart Association. A pediatric cardiac care intensive unit is designed to treat serious heart problems. These include both congenital and acquired cardiac conditions. All kinds of complications are managed by highly skilled respiratory therapists, pediatric intensivists and cardiothoracic surgeons.
No doubt the professionals ensure the most optimistic results. However, as responsible parents, you must also be aware of the environment of CCIU at top heart specialist hospitals in Hyderabad. It will help you understand the risks if any, know about types of specialized care and be prepared for unexpected changes. As parents you will be able to take an informed decision for your child. Here’s some detailed look at the inside a cardiac care intensive unit.
Who is Admitted to a CCIU?
Children suffering from heart attacks, acute coronary syndromes, cardiac dysrhythmia or similar conditions are kept under special monitoring in a CCIU. Further, infants whose medical needs cannot be fulfilled at general units are admitted to the intensive care. Lastly, anyone who requires sophisticated care, medications, round the clock supervision and high-end equipment to recover from a pediatric heart surgery in India also goes to this unit.
Inside a CCUI
Trained perfusionists, intensive care doctors, cardiologists, technicians, cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists and nurses work together to serve your child’s needs. Further, social workers, nutritionists, advance practice providers and pharmacists also work in close collaboration to increase the effectiveness of the procedures.
The environment is usually extremely supportive which allows you to interact with your children. New mothers can breastfeed, bond, cuddle and comfort their infants, say experts at a heart specialist hospital in Hyderabad. Each room could be fitted with large glass panels so that the little ones can be monitored from the nursing stations. Usually dedicated family spaces are also present for comfort and refreshment while the baby is being treated.
Equipments Inside a CCUI
The cabin is equipped with highly advanced machines which continuously display information. They keep the child safe, well monitored and comfortable at all times. A few of them are equipped with emergency alarms. When they go off, chances are, something is not right and requires adjustment.
The most common equipment includes ventilator, nasal cannula, oxygen tent, CPAP machine, tracheotomy, and oxygen mask for breathing. For proper passage of medication and nutrition, pumps, PICC lines, gastronomy tubes, central venous catheter and intravenous sites are used. Lastly, the general machines include electrodes, pulse oximeter, heart monitor, temperature probes, inflatable cuff and ECMO.
Stay Duration
It completely depends on the speed of recovery, emergence of sudden unresolved issues or the course of a medical procedure. Also, different children might take their own time to get stabilized after a pediatric heart surgery in India. Some might stay for 1-2 days while others could require weeks. Parents can get in touch with the associated doctor to get an estimate of the release date.
In all, cardiac care intensive unit aims at high-end specialized medication and treatment. Feel free to ask questions for a well-informed experience.