Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit Model

Abstract Pediatric cardiac critical care medicine plays a central role in the care of patients with complex congenital and acquired heart disease. Over the last two decades, specialized cardiac intensive care units have emerged as central components in the management of critically ill neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients with congenital and/or acquired heart disease. Although data regarding the optimal method of care delivery to this specific patient population continue to emerge, there are significant center variations based on surgical volume, medical staff organization, and space allocation. What seems to remain paramount in the care of this highly specialized patient population is that a dedicated team of professionals be tasked with the comprehensive care of critically ill pediatric and adult patients with congenital and/or acquired heart disease.