Glossary on intensive care medicine for patients

Analgesia

Targeted pain therapy, often via pumps or catheters, to relieve pain during awakening and recovery.

Support or replacement of the patient’s own breathing by a machine if the lungs do not supply enough oxygen or remove enough carbon dioxide.

temporary confusion with restlessness, hallucinations or disorientation, which can occur in some intensive care patients.

Blood purification with a machine if the kidneys are not working sufficiently; removes toxins and excess water.

Cardiopulmonary support from the outside; draws blood, enriches it with oxygen and returns it to the body.

Tube that is inserted into the windpipe via the mouth or nose to supply patients with air and oxygen via the ventilator.

Special area in the hospital for patients with life-threatening illnesses or after major operations.

Continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, respiration and other vital functions.

Breathing support via a mask on the mouth and nose, without a tube in the windpipe; often used for respiratory distress.

Deep sedation or light sleep through medication so that patients do not feel pain and reduce stress.

Life-threatening reaction to an infection; bacteria or viruses lead to massive inflammation throughout the body.

Point system for assessing the severity of an illness in the intensive care unit based on organ function.

Surgical tracheotomy to create permanent access for ventilation and to facilitate secretion management.

Drugs that increase blood pressure when it is too low, for example noradrenaline.

Narrow tube that opens into a large vein to deliver medication, fluids or nutrients directly into the blood.

Important tips for preparation and aftercare

  • Discuss the progress of your treatment with your medical team and nursing staff on a daily basis and ask any questions you may have.
  • Make a note of visiting times or ask relatives to establish fixed routines for visits and information.
  • If possible, bring personal items (photos, small pillow) to create familiar anchors in the overwhelming hospital routine.
  • Inform the team about existing allergies, medication, previous illnesses and your normal everyday life so that the therapy can be optimally adapted.
  • Make sure you move as much as possible (even small exercises in bed) to prevent complications such as thrombosis or pneumonia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. What happens in the intensive care unit?
You will be looked after around the clock by specialized doctors and nurses and monitored on equipment.
2. How long will I stay in the intensive care unit?
The duration depends on your state of health and the course of your recovery. The team will inform you daily when it is possible to return to the normal ward.
3. can I have visitors?
Yes, usually several times a day at set times. But plan breaks so that you can rest.
4. Why am I so sleepy or confused?
Medication for sedation, pain therapy and the stress of a serious illness can lead to fatigue or delirium. This is usually temporary.
5. What does sepsis mean?
A dangerous inflammatory reaction to an infection that requires rapid treatment with antibiotics and supportive measures.

What else you might know

  • Psychological support, such as pastoral care or specialized social services, can help to overcome fears and uncertainties.
  • After the intensive care period, there is often an early rehabilitation period in which physiotherapists and occupational therapists accompany you.
  • Relatives can take part in discussion groups to share experiences and obtain specialist information.
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