Our pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) cares for children who are critically ill or injured

Our PICU team cares for infants, kids and adolescents who have undergone major surgery or transplants, are fighting cancers or severe illnesses, or are victims of trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident, fall or violence. We have 24/7 access to pediatric specialists and life-saving treatments that no other pediatric intensive care unit in central Virginia can offer. 

Why choose CHoR for pediatric intensive care? In your most challenging times, we're here

• We were the first critical care in Virginia: Opened in 1978, our PICU was a pioneer in the state of Virginia, the first to offer the new specialty of pediatric critical care. Today we continue to offer the highest level of medical care for children.
• We provide unrivaled care, and it shows with recognitions such as the Beacon Award for Excellence and Level 1 trauma center designation: Our children's hospital PICU has recently earned a silver-level Beacon Award for Excellence from the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. We also are the only Level I pediatric trauma and burn center in central Virginia. Our team is prepared to handle any trauma, for any child, 24/7
• CHoR is staffed 24/7 by board-certified pediatric critical care physicians: We're the only medical center in the Richmond, Virginia area staffed 24/7 by board-certified pediatric critical care physicians. Our doctors collaborate closely with nurses, respiratory therapists, child life, nutritionists, social workers, pharmacists, chaplains and other health care professionals.
• Specialized intensive care for children: As part of an academic medical center, we offer your child the most advanced technologies and treatments – applying knowledge gained from our own research and from around the world. With a team approach and attention to detail, your child will have a dedicated team of nurses who are specially trained in the art and science of caring for critically ill and injured children. 

Tour our PICU

Why might my infant or child need to be in the PICU?  

• Cardiovascular conditions
• Endocrine and metabolism conditions 
• Fluid, electrolyte and renal diseases 
• Gastrointestinal conditions 
• Infectious diseases 
• Neuromuscular conditions 
• Poisoning and environmental injuries