Intensive Care Unit

At Lane, we emphasize a multi-disciplined approach to provide the best available healthcare to our patients. From the staff members providing direct patient care, to the volunteers that you will meet in the waiting room; everyone at Lane is working together to assure that the patient and family needs are met, promoting a return to a state of optimal wellness.

As a close friend or family member you have an important role in the care of our patients. Your support, caring reassurance, and advocacy for the patient is essential for their well being. You are a valued member of our ICU team and we're glad you're here.

While caring for the patient is our first obligation, we know the patient is not the only person affected by the situation. We recognize that the hospital and certainly the ICU may be unfamiliar and even intimidating to many friends and family members. Our staff will make every effort to ease this stressful time by being sensitive to the needs and concerns of your family. Our social worker, a healthcare professional, helps patients and families adjust to the ICU and deal with repercussions of the patient's hospitalization. Social workers have access to community resources and use those resources to help families plan for the future and adapt to the changes each new situation brings. In times of stress and indecision, many patients and family members seek comfort in their religion. Our ICU team can coordinate a visit from the clergy of your denomination. Lane's chapel is located on the first floor. Feel free to visit anytime. By working together, Heart to Heart and Hand to Hand, we can provide the best available healthcare to our patient.

How Can I Help

As the patient's advocate, your role frequently involves making informed decisions about the patient's care and keeping other family and friends updated on the patient's progress. The following tips from our staff will help you fulfill your role as the patient's advocate and help us provide the beset care.

1) Select One Family Member To Be The Family Spokesperson Or Advocate...
and have that person communicate with other concerned individuals. The ICU staff want to answer your questions, but must also provide optimal care for the patient. Ask your family members to call the waiting area at (225) 658-4517 for updates or have them call a designated person. Due to laws governing patient confidentiality, the ICU staff cannot release information over the telephone to those who call into the Intensive Care unit. The staff will return calls to the patient's immediate family.

2) Don't Be Afraid To Ask Questions
Our staff is committed to provide you with updated information on the patient's condition. If you are unfamiliar with any terms or have an questions about treatment plans, equipment or medication, please ask. if you understand the rationale for treatment, it will often help relieve stress and anxiety. We want you to be informed.

3) Share As Much Information About The Patient As You Can, Especially If The Patient Cannot Communicate.
It is important for you to provide our medical team with honest information about the patient's psychological, physical, and social status as well as the patient's wishes if he/she is unconscious. Be assured that any information shared in the hospital is strictly confidential.

4) Make Sure The Staff Can Get In Touch With You When You Leave The Hospital
Whether it's a telephone in a home or a hotel, a cellular phone or a beeper, please be sure the hospital's staff can reach you in an emergency or for a critical decision. Rest assured, we will call you if needed. You need your rest, too!

When Can We Visit?

The sound of a voice, the touch of a hand, and the smile of a familiar face promote the patient's recovery as much as any medication. Your visit is undoubtedly important to the patient. Equally significant to healing is the highly structured environment. The many routines and rules associated with the ICU are designed to ensure optimal care, promote healing, and protect the privacy of critically ill patients.

Our staff will make every effort to accommodate your family's special needs related to visiting, however the need for care, rest, and privacy are our first concern. In order for your loved one to receive optimal care and appropriate rest we ask that you visit during our scheduled visiting times.

Lane ICU Visiting Times Are:
9:00 AM to 9:30 AM
12:00 PM to 12:30 PM
2:00 PM to 2:30 PM
5:00 PM to 5:30 PM
8:00 PM to 8:30 PM

These hours may change to meet specific patient needs or in the event of an emergency.

Children visiting the ICU should be accompanied by an adult and be 12 years of age or older. Arrangements can be made for younger visitors in certain situations. Please discuss this with your nurse if applicable.

Additional Information For The ICU

What Should You Bring From Home?
We will provide everything necessary to care for the patient. Flowers and plants are not permitted in the ICU patient rooms. These items will harbor germs that may be detrimental to the patient's recovery. Electric razors, cosmetics, and other personal grooming items may be permitted but must be inspected by the hospital personnel prior to use.

Is A Phone Available?
Since physicians and hospital staff must have access to the ICU telephones, usage of the phones within the unit can be used only in emergencies. A phone is available in the ICU waiting room.

When Is The Best Time To See The Doctor?
Each doctor has a different schedule, and unfortunately they do not all make rounds at the same time. Find out your physician's schedule and be available when they make rounds. Prepare for the meeting by making a list of questions or concerns. Keep a pen and pad for taking notes. The ICU staff can be of assistance in providing customary times for most of our physicians, but the best source is the physician.

Take Care Of Yourself!
No one is ever prepared to take on the difficult, demanding, and stressful role associated with having a loved one in ICU. While devoting your energies to improving the patient's condition, do not neglect your own physical or emotional health. If you need support or assistance at any time, please consult our staff. Remember, you are not alone - you are a part of the ICU team.

If we can be of any help or answer any questions, please do not hesitate to page the patient representative at 409-3262, or call the director of ICU at 658-4519, or the chief nursing officer at 658-4505.