Developing a Trauma Intermediate Care Unit

Trauma-specific nursing units are integral to providing quality trauma care. Yet, little has been published on intermediate care units for the trauma population.

This article aims to describe one trauma center's journey to develop and implement a trauma intermediate care unit.

The need for a trauma intermediate care unit was identified during the review of patient care at a Level II trauma center. An interdisciplinary team was created and met weekly for 6 months to plan the implementation of a trauma intermediate care unit. Education plans, training, equipment procurement, and staffing were evaluated throughout the process.

Positive results were noted from the implementation of the intermediate care unit through the first year following implementation. The average length of stay for patients in the surgical trauma intensive care unit was reduced, resulting in cost savings for the organization. In addition, this collaborative work positively impacted patient safety, staff engagement, and finances.

With leadership support, the proper key stakeholders, clear deliverables, and a well-defined development plan, the implementation of this intermediate care unit was successful.