Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
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PICU Frequently Asked Questions
When my child is in the PICU, where do I stay?
You many options to choose from and our Guest Services can help. First, there are numerous hotels available within Fargo/Moorhead that will provide a reduced price during your child's stay at MeritCare. Another option is the Ronald McDonald House of the Red River Valley. Fargo has two Ronald McDonald houses where you are welcome to stay for the duration of your child's medical treatment. By contact our Guest Services at (701) 234-5524 we will work to find arrangements best suited to you and your needs.
How often and for how long can I stay in the unit?
Visiting hours do not apply to parents; we consider them a part of our care team. As long as the patient can tolerate visitors, parents are allowed to stay in the room as long as they want and may come and go as they please.
Who can visit my child?
Visiting hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for friends and family (excluding parents). Friends and family may visit parents of the child in the family room at any time. Siblings may visit for brief time periods. It's important to remember children admitted to the PICU need intensive medical care – visiting siblings must be in good health – no temperatures, coughs, etc., and will be screened by the nurse. All visitors must check in with the PICU staff before entering the unit. This is done by picking up the phone line in the family room. To prevent your child from being over stimulated, only two visitors are allowed at any given time (excluding parents).
Who will be involved in my child's daily care?
- Pediatric Intensive Care Doctors
- Doctors and Specialists
- Registered Nurses
- Dietitians
- Respiratory Therapists
- Physical Therapists
- Speech Therapists
- Occupational Therapists
- Social Workers
- Child Life Specialists
Will other sick kids in the PICU affect my child and his or her condition?
No. As part of our new renovation, we changed the PICU from one open ward to six private rooms and two isolation rooms with reverse airflow. The new private individual rooms allow children and their families individual space and helps ensure a safe space for each child to heal.
What is a PICU?
The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) is designed specifically for children with the most critical injuries or illnesses. The staff is specially trained to care for very sick children ranging in age from a few months to 17 years. At MeritCare Hospital the adult version of this service is called the Critical Care Unit.
What is family-centered care?
Family-centered care is a philosophy that strives to support families in the care-giving role by building on their unique strengths and viewing parents and family as integral to the care team. MeritCare encourages family involvement in a child's care and we also want to include family members in decision making processes.
When will my child leave the PICU?
Your child's doctor will determine when he or she can leave the PICU. Every child is different and every illness is different. The decision will depend on your child's diagnosis and length of treatment.