HDU (High Dependency Unit) / Surgical Intensive Care Unit

The Surgical Intensive Care Unit/ High Dependency Unit consist of 19 bedded in critical care area. All patients undergoing surgery under anaesthesia would postoperatively stay in SICU (Surgical Intensive Care Unit) or HDU (High Dependency Unit) under the care of our department till they are safe to be sent to their ward/rooms. Critically ill patients are managed in the SICU by our team of Anaesthesiologists with appropriate inputs from the respective surgical units.

In the HDU/SICU, anesthesiologists, nurses will closely monitor the patient as he/she "awakens" from anesthesia. The length of time spent in HDU depends on the type of surgery performed, patient's response to surgery and anesthesia, and medical condition of the patient.

While the patient is in Surgical Care Unit, the staff will observe the following:

· monitor vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse,

  and breathing

· monitor for any signs of complications

· monitor the level of consciousness

· check the wound, tubes or drains

· check intravenous (IV) infusions

· monitor urine output

· Patient’s comfort with pain medication and body positioning.

· conscious enough to swallow effectively before offering something to drink

When patient is conscious and his/her vital signs are stable, he/she will be brought back to a regular hospital room.