Critical Care

What is Critical Care Medicine?

Critical Care Medicine (CCM) is a branch of medicine dedicated to the care of patients who are critically ill or have a complex medical illnesses that requires consistent monitoring in an Intensive Care Unit.

A critical care patient is one who might be experiencing failure in one or more of the major organ systems such as cardiac, pulmonary, neurologic, liver, kidney or gastrointestinal systems. Other patients may require the close monitoring of a critical care setting during the early stages of surgical recovery, until the patient is stable enough to be transferred to another unit.

Our Board-cerrtified physicians work with other highly-skilled medical professionals of Providence Hospitals to understand the cause of the illness, and to address the complex needs of each patient.

Compassion is essential when working with critically ill patients.

That is why our physicians partner with the patients and families to maintain open lines of communication, and to receive feedback about developing a care plan that is right for each individual. We understand that medical care decisions need to be consistent with the wishes of the patient and his or her family.

Additional Resources

• Advance Directives
• DNR Form

If you or your loved one is critically ill and facing end-of-life decisions, please contact the Providence Hospitals Pastoral Care department at 803-256-5305. We would be happy to provide you with information about Advance Directives such as a Living Will or Health Care Power of Attorney.