DEPENDENCY LEVELS

This gradation groups patients based on the severity of their conditions

LEVEL 0 General assistance

Patients at this level are looked after through normal ward care. Patients may need an IV or oxygen using a face mask. They can remain for over four hours without needing to be assisted.

LEVEL 1 Additional support

At this level additional clinical support is required. These patients are at risk of deteriorating or were previously at higher levels of care and are attended to at least every four hours.

LEVEL 2 Organ failure

Level 2 conditions include a single failing organ and those who are at high risk of further complications – such as those having recently undergone a major operation. With likelihood of deterioration in mind, patients are checked hourly or more.

LEVEL 3 Multiple organ failure

At the top level of monitoring, these people have the highest risk of death. To ensure this is prevented as much as possible, in each situation multiple specific machines aim to provide each body’s needs.