Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine

The Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine provides full intensive care services for pediatric patients from birth to young adults.

The Intensive Care Units provide maximum supervision and support of patients of all ages who are at risk for, or suffering from, acute, life-threatening conditions. The units are staffed by full-time, board-certified, pediatric intensivists working in cooperation with all other physicians in the hospital as well as specially trained nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, social workers, and multiple other professionals.The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) cares for children following severe trauma and major surgery, including transplantation, as well as those suffering from a broad range of critical medical disorders.

The Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) provides supervision and support for infants and children with congenital or acquired heart disease. The CICU intensivists, nurses, and entire staff have special expertise in the management of patients with cardiac disorders and work in close collaboration with cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons.

Ground and air transportation arrangements for critically ill patients are coordinated and monitored through the Children’s Hospital Communications Center, a pediatric emergency dispatch system. Frequent updates are provided to the receiving physician. Medical advice is provided to the referring physician for stabilization prior to transport. Backup from attending intensivists and surgeons is available 24 hours a day via phone dispatch. Multiple conferencing capabilities enable consultation with appropriate specialists.

Research and Clinical Studies

As a nationally recognized research center, UPMC Children’s Hospital’s Department of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine participates in the latest clinical studies, which involve human volunteers and are intended to add to our medical understanding.

Referral Requirements

Emergency referrals should be made using the Children’s Hospital Communications Center, 412-692-5000. Questions also may be directed to the intensivist on call by calling the hospital operator at 412-692-5325.

Referrals are required from primary care physicians or other Children’s Hospital specialty services. Referrals for patients enrolled in managed care insurance plans also may require authorization from the insurance provider and primary care physician.