Technology-Dependent ICU (TICU)

At Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, we are 100 percent committed to kids. This means providing some of the most advanced care and medical equipment possible to help care for children. Our Technology-Dependent Intensive Care Units (TICU) are specially designed to care for and treat critically ill children from birth to age 18 who are dependent on technology to heal, survive and thrive. Our multidisciplinary team treats:

• Congenital (present at birth) abnormalities of the lungs or airway
• Conditions resulting from extreme premature birth, including apnea
• Complications from serious illness, injury or surgery

We are fully equipped to diagnose, treat and support critically ill children—even some of the tiniest patients—with complex diagnoses. We use specialized equipment and techniques to provide the care kids need to thrive. Examples of the types of equipment required by technology-dependent children include:

• Mechanical ventilators to support or assist breathing.
• BiPAPs/CPAPs to support or assist breathing.
• Oxygen supplementation, including high-flow nasal cannula, to maintain adequate oxygen levels.
• Tracheostomy tubes for a stable airway.
• Cardio-respiratory (apnea) monitors to monitor heart rate and breathing.
• Pulse oximetry to monitor oxygen levels in the blood.
• Feeding pumps and supplies to maintain nutrition.
• Hoyer lifts to assist with repositioning and wheelchair transfer.
• Infant warmers to maintain body temperature.
• Specialty beds when needed to prevent skin breakdown. 

Our pediatric doctors, specialists and nurses understand that children’s medical and emotional needs are different from adults. Our TICU multidisciplinary healthcare team includes:

• Pulmonologists
• Nurses
• Patient care technicians
• Respiratory therapists
• Rehabilitation specialists (physical therapists and occupational therapists)
• Case managers
• Social workers
• Child life specialists
• Music therapists
• Pulmonary educators
• Patient and family discharge educators

We dedicate resources to ensure the transition from our TICU to your home is safe. And we support families and caregivers throughout the process. Our physicians work closely with each child’s primary healthcare provider to make decisions regarding treatment and long-term care at home. Our team also works with families to coordinate community services needed to transition TICU patients with special needs into their homes.

Having a child in the TICU can be an emotional and overwhelming experience. At Children’s, our No. 1 priority is to support you and your family. Whether caring for an injury or treating a serious illness, we make it our mission to provide the best care—and best experience—for every child. Family is a big part of your child’s well-being. Not only are you a vital member of your child’s healthcare team; you are a source of security and comfort.