Intermediate
Technical
IVT
PICU
Pronunciation: PIE-kyoo
Also written as: PICU — Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Specialized hospital unit providing intensive care for critically ill children and adolescents.
Full Definition
A dedicated intensive care unit designed specifically for the treatment of critically ill pediatric patients from infancy through adolescence. PICUs are staffed by pediatric intensivists and specialized nursing staff trained in pediatric critical care, equipped with age-appropriate monitoring and life support equipment, and designed to address the unique physiological and developmental needs of children in critical condition.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize when used as an acronym; lowercase when spelled out except in headings.
In Context
- "The 8-year-old patient was transferred to the PICU following emergency surgery." — Medical record documentation
- "PICU protocols differ significantly from adult intensive care standards." — Clinical policy document
Also known as
pediatric ICU
children's intensive care unit
Don't confuse with
NICU
adult ICU