Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

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Visiting Hours

Visitors are regarded as an important part of the patient's day and are very welcome.  The welfare of the patient must, however, always be taken into consideration.  If the patient is likely to become unduly upset or tired, certain visiting restrictions may be imposed. Patients need adequate rest to help the healing process.

Visiting in the ICU is from: 2pm - 4pm and from 6pm - 8pm. For the safety of our loved one, only two immediate family members can be present by the bedside at one time. We do not advise visiting by children under the age of 16. If you are unwell, for example have diarrhoea, vomiting, cough or cold please do not visit. If you are unsure then please contact the Clinical Nurse Manager on duty. 

How to Find Us

Our Intensive Care Unit is on Level 2. Take the lift or the stairs to Level 2 and walk towards Theatre, the entrance to ICU is on your right hand side. Please ring the bell and staff will admit you to the Unit, take a seat in the waiting room and a member of staff will bring you into the unit, you must follow this process everytime you visit the Unit. Please remember to switch off your phone during your visit to the ICU. 

Description of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

ICU cares for patients that need constant monitoring and support from specialist staff, medication and equipment. Many of the patients need support for many organs such as the heart, lungs and kidneys. Specialist equipment such as ventilators (provides breathing support) and dialysis machines (provides support for the kidneys). 

Prevention of Infections in ICU

Tallaght Hospital is committed to reducing the spread of infection. Please use the Alcohol hand gel provided at the entrance to the hospital and again as you enter the ICU. The gel should also be used before and after contact with the patient whom you are visiting. Hand hygiene must be attended to after coughing, sneezing, blowing nose and disposing of tissues. Remember to use the alcohol hand gel before leaving the hospital. 

What Can You Bring for your Relative?

Due to lack of space at the bedside and for infection control reasons, personal belongings are limited. Anything that isn’t needed will be sent home, any valuables will be kept in the hospital safe, then returned to you. Fresh flowers are not allowed on the unit but items you can bring include: 
- Shower Gel
- Small soft toothbrush and toothpaste
- Comb or hairbrush
- Aerosol deodorants
- Glasses / hearing aids that the patient uses
- Family photographs
- Music cd's that your relative enjoys

How Long Will My Relative Stay in ICU?

There is no easy answer to this as every patient is different. The length of time depends on how they respond to treatment. Your relative will have good days but can also experience setback in their recovery. Please try not to get discouraged by this and rely on your family and friends for support. We encourage you to share your worries with the nursing and medical team who are here to listen and offer assistance, answering any questions you may have. 

Where Will My Relative go After ICU?

Once your relatives conditions improves, the medical team will decide whether they can go to the High Dependency Unit or to a ward. The medical team including the physiotherapists will then help your relative get back their independence and strength as much as possible. 

Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care Services are available for patients. Nursing Staff will arrange for a member of the Pastoral Care Team to visit a patient if required.