St Andrew’s Hospital: Intensive Care Unit

What does a typical day look like for the ICU at St Andrew’s?

The unit serves the whole hospital campus and cares for highrisk post-operative patients and seriously ill medical patients who need more invasive and intensive care.

Another important and large part of the ICU is our cardiac services, and the large number of patients admitted and cared for under our Coronary Care Licence.

Therefore, a typical shift or day in the life of the ICU staff is one of surprise, that cannot be predicted in any way.

How many years is the ICU celebrating during 2020?

This year, it will be celebrating 20 years of service to the hospital and community. How quickly those years have passed!

What is the best part about working in the ICU?

It’s a very close-knit professional unit. This fabric of people, personalities, ages, cultures, beliefs, and levels of experience – both professional and personal – makes for a strong, happy and productive workplace.

Why is St Andrew’s such a great place to work?

St Andrew’s Hospital has always demonstrated a friendly, down-to-earth, welcoming environment for all who enter. This is paramount for any organisation to excel in the healthcare industry.

How much preparation have you done to prepare for COVID-19?

There has been considerable work done in the ICU in preparation for COVID-19, both structurally and in upskilling of staff. Hospital executive, ICU consultants, nursing staff and many other people have been working extremely hard as one big team to ensure that the ICU and hospital as a whole is ready.

What was the most touching thing to happen in the ICU?

Some of the most memorable and touching moments working in the ICU, are times when patients and or their family members return to thank the staff for the care given them while there.