Paediatric Critical Care Unit (Children's)

Contact us

PCCU Intensive Care Unit
Tel: 0115 970 9232 or 0115 924 9924 Ext: 81232

Contact PCCU High Dependency Unit
Tel: 0115 924 9924 Ext: 89041

 

Our location

E Floor
East Block
QMC

Playroom

There is a playroom on the unit to entertain children during their stay. For those children unable to get to the playroom, we encourage play and development at the bedside, such as arts and crafts or electronic entertainment.

 

Parents accommodation

The hospital provides overnight accommodation with washing facilities close to the unit for parents. Due to the children’s care needs, parents are not able to sleep at children’s bedsides. Parents’ rooms will be arranged by the Family Liaison Team or nursing staff upon arrival in the unit.

 

Food and drink

There are kitchen facilities on the unit for parents to make hot drinks. 

A canteen is available on D Floor from 7.30 to 2.30pm Monday to Friday. A smaller cafe (Fontanella) is available at the main entrance of the hospital from 8am to 11.30pm seven days a week. 

Parents with children on the unit will receive a voucher for a small discount from some food outlets. Mothers of children under one year old are entitled to food from the patients' menu. We also have a range of takeaway menus for those wishing to order food in.

 

Car parking

Car parking vouchers are available for parents at a discounted rate. Please ask at reception upon your arrival for more information. If your child is being brought from a surrounding hospital, you will be given a parking pass for the first night.

Our Commitment to You

Having a child in PCCU is one of the most frightening experiences a parent can face. We understand that emotions can be high, sleep can be limited, and the situation can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to support you, guide you, and care for your child with compassion, skill and respect.

You can expect us to:

• Care for your child safely, gently and to the highest clinical standards.
• Communicate clearly and honestly.
• Explain equipment, treatments and plans in a way that makes sense.
• Listen to your concerns and take them seriously.
• Treat you with kindness, dignity and respect.
• Support you when you feel overwhelmed, frightened or unsure.
• Involve you in decisions about your child's care.
• Create a calm, healing environment for your child.
• Protect your child's privacy and safety at all times.

We are committed to working with you as partners in your child's care.

What We Ask From You

We know this is an incredibly difficult time. We do not expect perfection, only partnership, communication and kindness.

To help us care for your child safely, we ask that you:

• Speak to us with respect, even when you are upset or frightened.
• Let us know if you do not understand something. We will always explain.
• Tell us if you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious or unsure.
• Follow staff guidance around equipment, infection control and safety.
• Allow staff space to work during procedures or emergencies.
• Avoid touching medical equipment unless we have trained you.
• Let us know if you disagree with something. We want to hear your concerns.
• Take breaks when you need them. Caring for yourself helps you care for your child.
• Help us keep the environment calm for all children and families.

We are here to support you, and we want you to feel safe and included.

Zero Tolerance for Abuse

We understand that fear, exhaustion and stress can make emotions run high.

We will always respond with compassion first. However, we must also protect the safety and wellbeing of our staff, your child and other families.

For that reason, NUH has a zero-tolerance policy. This policy is not about punishment; it is about keeping everyone safe.

The following behaviours are not acceptable:

• Verbal abuse.
• Threatening behaviour.
• Physical aggression.
• Harassment.
• Discrimination or hateful language.
• Behaviour that puts staff or patients at risk.

If these behaviours occur, we will:

• Ask you to step away and take time to calm down.
• Involve senior staff to support the situation.
• Put boundaries in place to protect staff and families.
• In serious cases, restrict access to the unit.

Working Together

We are on the same team. 

If you are struggling, please tell us. You will never be judged for feeling overwhelmed. We will always listen, support you and help you find the right person to talk to.

Thank you for partnering with us and trusting us to be part of your child's care.

The equipment in PCCU can look overwhelming at first. This guide explains what some of the most common machines and devices do, and how they help care for your child.

Monitors

Monitors track important information such as your child's heart rate, breathing, oxygen levels and blood pressure.

You may hear alarms or beeping sounds. Most alarms are routine and help staff monitor your child's condition. They do not always indicate an emergency.

Lines and Tubes

Lines and tubes allow us to give medicines, fluids and nutrition, and to take blood samples without repeated needle procedures.

They are carefully secured and regularly checked to help keep your child safe.

Infusion Pumps

Infusion pumps deliver medicines and fluids safely and accurately.

Different colours and labels help staff identify each medication or treatment and ensure the correct dose is given.

Ventilator

A ventilator is a machine that helps your child breathe when they need extra support.

You may see breathing tubes, humidifiers and numbers displayed on the screen. These settings are continuously monitored and adjusted by the clinical team to meet your child's needs.

PCCU is different every day, and every child's journey is unique. This guide provides an overview of what a typical day may look like for your child and family.

Morning

Patients are often washed, have their teeth brushed and their bedding changed as part of their daily care.

The PCCU team will carry out ward rounds, reviewing each patient and planning care for the day ahead.

Afternoon

Depending on your child's condition, they may be visited by play specialists, teachers or other members of the wider care team.

Where possible, we aim to provide a period of rest and quiet time. During this time, lights may be dimmed and noise kept to a minimum to support recovery and wellbeing.

Evening

Nursing staff hand over care at around 7.30pm, and doctors hand over at around 8.30pm.

The night team will review your child and confirm any plans for overnight care.

Overnight

We aim to provide a calm and stable environment overnight. Unless there is a clinical need, major changes to treatment are usually avoided during this time.

This quieter period can also give families an opportunity to rest, including in the PONSU accommodation where appropriate.

Important Information

In exceptional circumstances, we may need to ask families to leave the unit temporarily while emergency care is provided to another patient.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation if this happens, as it helps us provide safe and timely care to all children who need it.

We know that having a child in PCCU can be a difficult and emotional experience. A range of support services are available to help you during your time with us.

Family Liaison Nurse

Esther Gordon is the PCCU Family Liaison Nurse.

Available Monday to Friday, Esther provides support to families during their time on PCCU. She can help with concerns, provide practical advice, and offer guidance on matters such as work, finances and accessing additional support services.

If you would like to speak with Esther, please ask a member of the PCCU team.

Nurse in Charge

A Nurse in Charge is available on every shift and can support you with any questions, concerns or feedback about your experience on the unit.

They will usually introduce themselves during their shift. If you are unsure who the Nurse in Charge is, your bedside nurse will be able to help.

Operational Band 7 Sister

From Monday to Friday, a Band 7 Sister is based within the unit office and helps manage the day-to-day running of PCCU.

They work closely with the clinical team to ensure the unit runs safely and effectively.

Harley Jae Trust

The Harley Jae Trust is a charity dedicated to supporting children with complex medical conditions and their families.

The charity provides practical and emotional support, including funding for essential medical equipment and services that can improve the experience of children and families.

Esther Gordon can help put you in contact with the Harley Jae Trust if you would like to find out more.

Chaplaincy

Healthcare Chaplains provide specialist spiritual and pastoral support during times of illness, injury and other life-changing experiences.

They can help support your wellbeing, resilience and sense of hope during challenging times.

Chaplaincy services are available to everyone, regardless of faith, belief or background. Support is personal, confidential and non-judgemental.

Psychology Service

The Paediatric Critical Care Psychology Service supports families whose children are receiving care in Paediatric Intensive Care and Paediatric High Dependency.

If you feel you would benefit from speaking with a psychologist, please speak to your bedside nurse. Referrals are made through the PCCU team.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

PALS offers confidential advice, support and information for patients, relatives and carers.

The service can help resolve concerns about NHS services, provide information about the complaints process, and signpost you to other organisations that may be able to help.

Find out more about the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

There is a lot to take in when your child is in PCCU, and it can be difficult to remember everything you have been told.

We've brought together useful information, leaflets and resources in one place so that you can come back to them whenever you need to and read them in your own time.

We hope this helps you find the information and support you need during your child's stay.

https://www.nuh.nhs.uk/childrens-leaflets

Baby massage is a gentle and calming way for parents and carers to connect with their baby through positive touch.

It can support your baby's growth and development while helping you spend quality time together during their stay in hospital.

Benefits of Baby Massage

Baby massage can help to:

• Promote relaxation and calmness.
• Support bonding between you and your baby.
• Encourage positive touch and interaction.
• Support your baby's wellbeing and development.
• Create enjoyable routines for you and your child.

For parents and carers, baby massage can be an empowering experience and may help bring a sense of normality during what can be a challenging and unfamiliar time.

Things to Remember

• Use gentle movements and always massage the tummy in a clockwise direction.
• Consider whether it is the right time for your baby. For example, are they awake, settled and comfortable?
• Check with your baby's nurse before starting if your baby has had surgery or immunisations within the last 72 hours.

Who Can Help?

Sam, Rachael and Chloe are trained to teach baby massage and would be delighted to support you in learning this skill while your baby is in hospital.

Taking part can be a positive way to be involved in your baby's care and spend meaningful time together.

If you have not already been approached about baby massage and would like to take part, please speak to your bedside nurse.

Rest and sleep are an important part of your child's recovery and wellbeing.

Some children in PCCU may receive medicines that help them sleep while they recover. When this is not needed, we try to maintain a normal day and night routine as much as possible.

PCCU can be a busy and noisy environment, but we make every effort to create opportunities for rest. During the afternoon, lights are often dimmed to encourage quiet time and relaxation. Overnight, the main unit lights are usually switched off, while individual bed spaces remain safely monitored using bedside lighting and equipment.

Looking After Yourself

One of the most important ways you can support your child is by looking after your own health and wellbeing.

We understand how difficult it can be to leave your child, especially when they are unwell. However, getting enough rest will help you feel better able to support your child, take part in conversations about their care and make important decisions when needed.

Where possible, we will provide access to a Parent Overnight Stay Unit (PONSU) room. These rooms offer a place to rest and include facilities for sleeping, washing and preparing meals.

Please remember that taking time to rest is not taking time away from your child. Looking after yourself helps you be there for them when they need you most.

We understand how important it is for families to spend time with their child while they are receiving care in PCCU. To help us provide a safe and comfortable environment for all patients and families, we ask visitors to follow the guidance below.

Visiting Hours

• Parents and carers may visit their child at any time, 24 hours a day.
• Grandparents and siblings are welcome to visit between 7am and 8pm.
• Other visitors may only be permitted in exceptional circumstances and with agreement from the senior nursing team.

At the Bedside

• A maximum of two visitors may be at the bedside at any one time.
• Your child's bedside nurse will help manage visitor numbers if needed.
• Food should not be eaten at the bedside.
• Hot drinks must be kept in a lidded travel mug to help maintain a safe environment.

Any exceptions to these arrangements are made at the discretion of the senior nursing team.

If You Cannot Visit

If you are unable to visit the hospital, you can contact the team caring for your child using the numbers below:

• Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU): 0115 970 9232
• Paediatric High Dependency Unit (PHDU): 0115 970 9241

Please note that staff can only share information with individuals who have parental responsibility or who have been authorised by the child's parent or guardian.

If you would like further information about visiting arrangements, please speak to a member of the PCCU team.

We understand that having a child in hospital can place additional pressures on families. To help support you during your child's stay, PCCU can provide assistance with parking and meals.

Free Parking

Families of children staying in the Children's Hospital may be eligible for free parking for up to two vehicles.

Karen Morley, our Family Support Worker, or a member of the reception team will provide you with the form required to apply for free parking.

Once completed, please take the form to the Security Kiosk at the Main Entrance on B Floor.

Meal Vouchers

Parents and carers may be eligible for meal vouchers during their child's stay.

• Up to two meal vouchers are available each day (one per parent or carer).
• Each voucher has a value of £7.50.
• Vouchers can be used in the hospital restaurant on D Floor and the café on B Floor.
• Vouchers cannot be used at Costa Coffee.

If you have any questions about parking, meal vouchers or other support available during your child's stay, please speak to a member of the PCCU team.

When your child is well enough that they no longer need intensive care, they will usually move from PCCU to a children's ward.

Although this is an important and positive step in your child's recovery, we understand that it can also feel worrying for families.

Preparing for the Move

In PCCU, your child may have received one-to-one or two-to-one nursing care, with continuous monitoring and support. Moving to a ward environment can feel like a big change, especially when there are more patients being cared for in the same area.

While this adjustment can be difficult, moving out of PCCU is a positive sign. It means your child no longer requires intensive care and is making progress in their recovery.

Paediatric Critical Care Outreach Team (PCCOT)

If your family is based in Nottingham, you may meet a member of the Paediatric Critical Care Outreach Team (PCCOT) before your child leaves PCCU.

PCCOT nurses support children who have recently transferred from critical care and will continue to review your child after they have moved to the ward.

Transfer to Your Local Hospital

If Queen's Medical Centre is not your local hospital, your child may be transferred closer to home when they are well enough to continue their recovery.

In these circumstances, the Children’s Medical Emergency Transport (COMET) may be involved in arranging and carrying out the transfer.

Sharing Your Feedback

Before you leave PCCU, we would be grateful if you could tell us about your experience.

Your feedback helps us understand what we are doing well and where we can improve. The views of children, young people and families play an important role in shaping and improving our services.

A member of the PCCU admin team will at some point provide a paper feedback form during your child’s admission and any feedback provided allows us to make positive changes to our care delivery and service.

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and for allowing us to be part of your child's care journey.