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intensive care unit
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Learn about the use of modern technology in monitoring infant brain waves for signs of distress
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intensive care unit
intensive care unit An intensive care unit.

intensive care unit

medicine
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Also known as: ICU, critical care unit
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Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.
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Last Updated: • Article History
Also called:
critical care unit
Probe underway at Odisha govt hospital after families claim 5 patients died of ‘wrong injection’ • June 4, 2025, 4:53 AM ET (The Indian Express)
Driver shot by police after Miami officer lands on hood appears in bond court from ICU • May 30, 2025, 6:37 AM ET (CBS)
Healthy man goes camping—lands in ICU for 40 days with respiratory failure • May 28, 2025, 12:54 PM ET (Ars Technica)
Post-Intensive Care Syndrome patients experience long-term deficits in cognitive and physical function • May 20, 2025, 4:03 PM ET (News-Medical)
intensive care unit
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intensive care unitA monitor showing information about heart function for multiple patients in an intensive care unit.
Learn about the use of modern technology in monitoring infant brain waves for signs of distress
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Learn about the use of modern technology in monitoring infant brain waves for signs of distressInfant brain waves being monitored for signs of distress at a neonatal intensive care unit.
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intensive care unit, hospital facility for care of critically ill patients at a more intensive level than is needed by other patients. Staffed by specialized personnel, the intensive care unit contains a complex assortment of monitors and life-support equipment that can sustain life in once-fatal situations, including adult respiratory distress syndrome, kidney failure, multiple organ failure, and sepsis (see septicemia).

This article was most recently revised and updated by Robert Lewis.