Increased patient numbers in pediatric ICU to cause some surgical postponements - Shared Health

A resurgence in respiratory illness circulating in the province over the past week is contributing to high patient numbers at HSC Children’s pediatric intensive care unit.

There were 17 pediatric patients receiving intensive care this morning. The normal baseline capacity for the pediatric ICU (PICU) is nine. A significant number of these patients were experiencing medically complex cases that were further complicated by respiratory illness, including infants and young children.

A mix of respiratory illnesses are currently circulating in the community. These viruses often have a more profound effect on the health of young children, who are frequently more vulnerable to serious illness.

Patient volumes in the children’s emergency department remain relatively stable. However, the number of pediatric patients visiting the ED with influenza-like symptoms has increased in the past two weeks, from a low of 22 on March 18 to 47 yesterday.

There were 51 patients in the neonatal ICU this morning (NICU). The normal baseline capacity is 50.

In response to the increased pressure on the PICU, approximately 10 staff – including some from pediatric surgical and recovery units – are being temporarily reassigned to support these patients’ care. While all urgent and life-threatening surgeries will continue to be performed, these staffing moves may result in the postponement of some non-urgent procedures. Families of affected patients will be contacted.

In the meantime, we are reminding parents that there are a number of measures they can take to protect their child’s health – the most important of which is ensuring they don’t interact with people experiencing cold-like symptoms. The likelihood of getting sick is directly related to the number of personal interactions a person may have. This includes interactions between young people and individuals who may not know or acknowledge they may be unwell (and who may be looking to hold and kiss the baby).

Parents can also help their children by protecting their own health in a number of ways, such as:

• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick;
• Regularly washing their hands;
• Touching their child’s face with unwashed hands;
• Avoiding the sharing of drinks and face towels;
• Regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces (door knobs, taps, countertops, etc.) to keep it free of germs;
• Sneezing or coughing into one’s elbow instead of hands;
• Ensuring they are up to date on their vaccinations; and
• Masking when out in large crowds.

Advice for parents on how to treat their sick or injured child, as well as when and where to take them for care, can be viewed at KidCareMB.ca.

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Increased patient numbers in pediatric ICU to cause some surgical postponements - Shared Health
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