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What an intensivist does

An intensivist is a doctor trained to care for critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Training is a DM, DNB or fellowship in Critical Care Medicine after MD/DNB in Medicine, Anaesthesia or Chest Medicine. Intensivists coordinate a team of nurses, physiotherapists and specialists, and support failing organs while the underlying illness is treated.

When a patient needs the ICU

• Respiratory failure needing oxygen support or a ventilator.
• Septic shock, severe infection or very low blood pressure.
• Heart attack with complications, arrhythmia or heart failure.
• Stroke, head injury, seizures or reduced consciousness.
• Major surgery recovery, trauma, poisoning, or severe dengue or malaria.
• Kidney or liver failure and diabetic ketoacidosis.

What happens in the ICU

Patients are monitored continuously: heart rhythm, blood pressure, oxygen, breathing and urine output. Frequent blood tests including CBC, electrolytes, kidney and liver function, blood gases and lactate guide treatment. Support may include oxygen masks, high-flow oxygen, ventilators, medicines to support blood pressure, dialysis and nutrition through tubes or veins.

For families

Visits are limited to protect patients from infection. Ask the team for daily updates on condition, goals and expected course, and discuss treatment limits openly with doctors. Understand that outcomes depend on the illness, age and other conditions, and that ICU care can be demanding emotionally and financially.

Costs and choosing

ICU costs vary widely by city, hospital and level of support; ask for an estimate and daily tariff, and check insurance and Ayushman Bharat coverage. Choose hospitals with a consultant-led ICU, nurse ratio, infection control and 24-hour specialist cover. Find hospitals on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.