Main Content
Intensive Care: A Guide for You and Your Family
In the ICU – Information for family and friends
The ICU
What to expect
Treatments
Behaviour
What you can do
Looking after yourself
Dealing with relationships
When it’s your partner in the ICU
Helping your child
When your loved one leaves the ICU
If your loved one doesn’t survive
In the ICU – Information for patients
Your time in the ICU
Your healthcare team
Leaving the ICU
Going home
When you get home
Follow-up care
Your relationships
How you may feel
Your body
Making sense of your stay in the ICU
References and resources
In some communities if you have complex medical needs you may be asked to go to a follow-up outpatient clinic where you’ll be seen by a doctor or nurse practitioner. If your community doesn’t have this type of clinic, your family doctor will provide the ongoing care you need.
Some ICUs in Alberta also have a member of your healthcare team from the ICU meet with you 2 to 3 months after you leave the ICU. Usually the meeting is at a clinic or the hospital to discuss how you’re doing. This includes physical, emotional, or mental health issues you’ve had since you left the hospital. They may make a referral to more or other services if needed. If this isn’t offered in your community talk to your family doctor or healthcare provider about how you’re feeling and any concerns you have.
Go to Top
