Basic HDU requirements. A HDU has to be geographically linked with the ITU and resources for resuscitation of the critically ill must be immediately available.<sup>3</sup>
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Medical staff
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A medical/surgical trainee with appropriate training and experience available 24-hours a day.<br/>
An attending Intensive Care Specialist who is also responsible for admissions to the HDU.<br/>
Designated Medical Director trained in Intensive Care medicine.
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Nursing staff
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Nurse-to-patient ratio of 1:2.<br/>
The majority of senior nurses should be qualified in intensive care or high dependency care nursing.<br/>
HDU Charge Nurse should have a degree in Intensive Care medicine.
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Services
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Seamless access to ITU, opecrating theatres, radiology, pharmacy and pathology laboratories.<br/>
Regular input from physiotherapists and other health care professionals (including occupational therapy, dietician, tissue viability services, etc).</br>
Technical and clerical staff.
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Operational
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Guidelines on admission, management and discharge of patients.<br/>
Formal auditing procedures and policies to implement changes.<br/>
Infection control/isolation protocols (including designated cubicles).
Access to facilities for continuous professional development.
Formal introductory program for new recruits.
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