Journal of Perioperative & Critical Intensive Care Nursing
Open Access

Life on the Edge: Inside the Surgical Ward of the ICU

Ryou Stephen^{* *}Correspondence: Ryou Stephen, Department of Intensive Care Unit, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan, Email:

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About the Study

A hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) is a specialist division that offers intensive care to patients who are critically ill. In an ICU, there are several different types of wards, including surgical wards. A surgical ward in an ICU is designed to provide care to patients who have undergone surgery and require close monitoring and support to ensure their recovery. The surgical ward in an ICU is staffed by highly trained medical professionals who are dedicated to providing the best care possible to their patients. This team typically includes surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and other support staff who work together to provide comprehensive care to patients in the ward. One of the primary functions of the surgical ward in an ICU is to provide postoperative care to patients who have undergone surgery. This care typically involves monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and ensuring that the patient is stable and comfortable. Patients who have undergone major surgery may require mechanical ventilation to help them breathe, and the staff in the surgical ward will closely monitor the patient's oxygen levels to ensure that they are getting enough oxygen. In addition to providing postoperative care, the surgical ward in an ICU is also responsible for providing preoperative care to patients who are scheduled for surgery. This care may include conducting preoperative assessments, preparing the patient for surgery, and ensuring that the patient is in the best possible condition before undergoing the procedure. The surgical ward in an ICU is also responsible for managing any complications that may arise during or after surgery. Complications may include bleeding, infections, and other medical issues that require immediate attention. The staff in the surgical ward must be prepared to act quickly and effectively to manage these complications and ensure that the patient receives the appropriate care. In addition to providing medical care, the surgical ward in an ICU is also responsible for providing emotional support to patients and their families. Surgery can be a stressful and emotional experience, and the staff in the surgical ward must be compassionate and understanding as they work to provide care to their patients.

One of the most important aspects of the surgical ward in an ICU is communication. Effective communication between the medical staff and the patient and their family is critical to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the patient receives the best possible care. The staff in the surgical ward must be able to communicate effectively with each other, with the patient, and with their family members to ensure that everyone is informed and involved in the patient's care. Another important aspect of the surgical ward in an ICU is infection control. Infection control is critical in any healthcare setting, but it is particularly important in an ICU where patients are often immunocompromised and at higher risk of infection. The staff in the surgical ward must be diligent in their efforts to prevent the spread of infection, including regular hand washing, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and adhering to strict cleaning and disinfection protocols.

Overall, the surgical ward in an ICU plays a critical role in the care of patients who have undergone surgery. The staff in the ward must be highly trained and dedicated to providing the best possible care to their patients. From providing postoperative care to managing complications and providing emotional support, the staff in the surgical ward is essential to ensuring that patients receive the best possible care and recover as quickly as possible.