The pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital is a 25-bed state-of-the-art facility serving the entire four-county Inland Empire containing a population of over four million. This bustling unit averages 110 admissions per month which provides residents with exposure to a vast variety of critical care patients. Approximately one-half of the admissions are brought in by transport services, including ground vehicles, helicopters, and fixed-winged aircrafts. Residents have the opportunity to participate in the transport of critically ill children from surrounding hospitals to our facility for a higher level of care.
Second- and third-year residents on the intensive care rotation are the primary physicians in the management of acutely ill and injured patients under the guidance of fully trained pediatric intensivists. Residents are exposed to and educated on the complicated pathophysiology of acute illness, principles of invasive and noninvasive monitoring, and medical procedures. Significant experience is gained in invasive procedures such as controlled intubation and placement of arterial and central venous lines.
Residents consider the PICU rotation to be one of the most educational and valuable clinical experiences. For the motivated and aggressive resident, ample clinical research opportunities exist. A fellowship program in pediatric intensive care is also available at LLU Children's Hospital to the resident that would like to pursue a career in this dynamic field.