Critical Care

Our trusted team provides 24/7 services to critically ill and injured patients in our state-of-the-art intensive care units.

Our Critical Care Services

UMass Memorial has ICUs focused on the critical care needs of different conditions and age groups, including:

  •  Cardiac ICU (CICU) helps patients with heart failure and individuals recovering from heart attacks and severe heart rhythm disorders.
  • Medical ICU is for patients with cancer and individuals who have lung, kidney, liver and gastrointestinal problems and blood infections.
  • Neonatal ICU (NICU) cares for newborns who have or are at risk for severe issues, such as breathing, neurologic or digestive concerns.
  • Neurotrauma ICU provides specialized services that promote recovery from traumatic brain injuries.
  • Pediatric ICU (PICU) is for infants, children and adolescents who experience severe illness or injuries.
  • Surgical ICU provides intensive monitoring to patients who need or are recovering from major surgery.

UMass Memorial uses an innovative ICU telemedicine (eICU) service supporting minute-by-minute monitoring even when we’re not at your bedside. This added layer of oversight alerts us to subtle changes the moment they occur, so you receive immediate attention. Programs like our eICU have been demonstrated to speed recovery and lower the risk of complications.

What to Expect During an Intensive Care Unit Stay

Our ICUs provide around-the-clock services to meet the unique needs of critically ill patients. Services include: 

  • Bedside treatments, such as respiratory therapy and physical therapy
  • Drain tubes to help blood and other fluids exit the body
  • Frequent checkups from intensivists and critical care nurses
  • Intravenous lines through which we deliver fluids and medications
  • Monitoring equipment that continuously assesses breathing, heart rate, brain activity and more
  • Ventilator assistance, if needed, to help you breathe

Being in the ICU is worrisome and can bring unexpected challenges. We are here for you and your family with heartfelt support. Services are available from social workers and chaplains who address the spiritual needs of people of all faiths.

UMass Memorial Excellence in Critical Care Services

Personalized Services

In our intensive care unit, highly skilled nurses are assigned only one or two patients at a time, enabling them to be extra attentive to your recovery. UMass Memorial ICUs are equipped with advanced technologies, like bedside monitors and other equipment. Having these devices nearby makes it possible to respond quickly should your needs change.

Education and Research

We are training the next generation of intensivists in partnership with UMass Chan Medical School. We run a competitive fellowship program and provide undergraduate and graduate medical education. Our experts also participate in research that’s improving critical care and outcomes. Areas of interest include monitoring technologies, quality and safety.

Multispecialty Care

Intensivists and critical care nurses are part of a multispecialty team delivering services that optimize your ability to heal. UMass Memorial has all the providers you need to achieve the best possible outcome. You may receive services from respiratory therapists, pharmacists, physician assistants, physical therapists and dietitians.

Get Care for Any Emergency or Urgent Medical Issue

If you or a loved one experiences a life-threatening issue, call 911 or go to the emergency department immediately. For mental health emergencies, call 988. For less serious issues, contact your primary care provider at 855-UMASS-MD during business hours. Services are also available in urgent care clinics, some of which are open evenings and weekends. 

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