When your loved one is in the intensive care unit (ICU), he or she likely has a life-threatening condition that requires round-the-clock medical care. Problems that can land you in the ICU include brain injuries, accidents, and other serious illnesses. You may be harboring fears and anxiety because of their critical condition. But don’t despair. Here is a list of what to expect when your loved one is in an ICU.
Calm for Better Healing
Most patients admitted to the ICU may be so severely injured or in such physical distress that it is necessary to help keep them calm so their body can heal. Hence, medications may be administered by IV to help keep patients relaxed and sedated. It may be difficult to see your loved one at less than his or her usual energy level but doing this can help ensure their energy is spent toward a speedy recovery.
Plethora of Emotions
Most family members who visit a patient in the ICU experience a rollercoaster of emotions. This is why scheduled visits should be restricted to an intimate few. Even young children may become distressed by the situation. In most cases, however, once you see that your loved one is in good hands, it can bring some relief to otherwise fraught circumstances.
Communicate With Critical Care Team
There are many healthcare professionals who make up your loved one’s critical care team. These doctors and nurses not only care for and monitor patients, but they can help you understand your loved one’s current condition and identify any steps you can take to help. You’ll want to maintain an open line of communication with this team of healthcare professionals – they will be the ones there when needed to troubleshoot in critical situations. If you feel emotionally overwhelmed, there’s no harm in taking notes and asking questions.
Take Care of Yourself
Understandably, you may be upset and exhausted over your loved one’s condition. However, make it a point to sleep and rest as needed because it is impossible to take care of anyone else if you’re not healthy yourself. Give yourself a break, daily – making time to eat, shower, and otherwise care for body, mind, and spirit. Doing so will make you better able to cope with visits to your loved one in the ICU and better able to comprehend their medical condition and what that may mean for you.
Intensive Care with Carrus Health
If someone you know requires ICU care, you should make sure they’re somewhere like Carrus Health, with its highly specialized critical care team who can properly and compassionately take care of your loved one and ensure their speedy recovery.
At Carrus Health, we provide you with the critical care services you need. Our competent and professional staff can also address any concerns you may have. Contact us now at (903) 870-2600 to find out more or to schedule a visit.
