Considerations and Preparations

Considerations for Critical Care Transport

Because our staff is specially trained in neonatal and pediatric patients, we are able to meet all the care needs for our patient population.

Criteria for Critical Care Transports

• Post-cardiac / respiratory arrest
• Unstable airway and / or respiratory failure 
• Direct admissions to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Cardiac ICU, Neonatal ICU or Trauma Services
• Vasoactive infusions or anti-dysrhythmia medications to maintain cardiac stability
• Mechanical ventilation
• Acute mental status deterioration 
• Indwelling arterial or central venous lines 
• Organ transplant
• Organ failure 
• Uncontrolled seizures
• Respiratory distress 
• Congenital heart disease 
• Complex fluid management
• Nitric oxide requirement 

Preparing the Patient for Transport 

When arranging for patient transport, have the following information available: 

• Patient name
• Age, including date of birth 
• Diagnosis, presenting problem, or mode of injury
• Vital signs
• Pertinent laboratory / diagnostic data (if available)
• Treatment received
• Contact phone number

Prior to the Transport Team’s arrival, please make a copy of the medical records, X-rays, and pertinent laboratory data.