Intensive Care
After a severe injury, serious illness, or major surgery, you may spend time in the intensive care unit (ICU) at Johnston Health in Clayton or Smithfield. You’ll benefit from round-the-clock monitoring and expert staff specially trained to help you recover.
What is Intensive Care?
Intensive care, also called critical care, gives you the hospital’s highest level of medical support. Nurses and doctors with certifications in life support watch your vital signs 24/7 and respond quickly to changes in breathing, heartbeat, and other body functions. Their timely care helps you stay as well as possible.
Conditions We Treat
Expect intensive care for conditions that threaten your life or a major organ:
Visiting Guidelines
Visit a loved one in the ICU any time. Up to three guests may be in the room at once. Children may not visit during flu season (fall to early spring).
Advance Directives
Make advance directives to explain your wishes regarding health care if you’re ever unable to speak for yourself.
Support for Families
Request spiritual care for emotional support and counsel on issues of ethics—regardless of your faith background or personal beliefs. Your family will receive compassionate guidance from an empathetic chaplain or trained volunteer.
After Intensive Care
When your condition is stable, you’ll move to a progressive care unit—an intermediate level of care. Your doctor may recommend rehabilitation services to help restore your ability to move, do tasks, speak, or swallow after a serious medical condition.