Patients who require intensive or specialist treatment and close observation, either as a result of a serious illness or injury or following major surgery, are usually cared for in the Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) or the High Dependency Unit (HDU) at Blackpool Victoria Hospital. These are specialist ward areas that are well equipped and fully staffed to provide intensive care and close monitoring. Together they form the department of Critical Care.
Most patients requiring Critical Care services will be placed in the main ITU and HDU areas at Blackpool Victoria.
The department of Critical Care works closely with the Trust's department of Anaesthetics and Theatres to provide a comprehensive service for patients and their relatives.
See also Anaesthetics and Theatres.