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Medical Emergencies can happen without any prior indication. Usually, the first action normally recommended in the aftermath of any emergency is immediate medical attention. This can happen either in an Emergency Department or an Intensive Care Unit of any nearby hospital. While both may sound similar, there is a difference between ICU and Emergency, which need to be understood. However, to be best prepared to meet any medical emergency, it is important to understand.

This article is aimed towards taking us closer to that difference.

How ICU differs from Emergency Care

• Emergency is the first point of contact at the onset of any medical emergency. ICU or Intensive Care Unit is a department that is well-equipped with advanced life support equipment where a patient is monitored round the clock, for serious health conditions.
• Conditions that can be treated in an emergency room might include accident care, trauma, minor injuries, etc. More severe conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and life-threatening conditions that require continuous care are referred to the ICU.
• Emergency conditions require a shorter stay that can range from a few hours to a day. ICU stays depend upon the patient’s prevailing condition and can go on for days, weeks, or even months.
• Medical staff in emergency care include emergency doctors, nurses, and trauma care specialists. ICUs on the other hand are well-equipped with a more high-profile team that includes, intensivists, critical care specialists, and well-trained ICU nurses.
• Emergency care includes the use of X-ray machines, CT scans, and Nebulizers. On the other hand, ICUs are well-equipped with Ventilators, dialysis machines, infusion pumps, etc.

When it comes to saving lives, both Emergency Care and Intensive Care are equally important however, there is a difference in both when it involves addressing a patient in distress. Hence, it is important to understand when to go to the emergency room vs ICU. Your choice of the right hospital can also contribute to a life decision. If either you or your loved one is contemplating which hospital to choose, do not think further and visit our expert team of emergency and ICU care specialists at Suguna Hospital. Advanced technology-driven equipment, an experienced team of doctors, quick access to diagnostic services, and a professional approach are a few factors that continue to win us the trust of over 1000 successfully addressed patients who needed emergency and ICU care. Always be alert – because every second is crucial in a medical crisis!