Nicklaus Children's Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) is one of the few pediatric CICUs in the nation and the first dedicated pediatric cardiac unit in the Southeast. The cardiac care unit provides highly specialized pre-and post-operative care for children undergoing cardiac surgery and interventional catheterization.

The latest equipment and a multidisciplinary team ensure the finest care for patients in the cardiac care unit. Innovative therapies available in the pediatric CICU include nitric oxide (an inhaled medication used to relax blood vessels), new inotropic agents and mechanical cardiac assist technology, bed side lab testing and results and a computerized data collection and storage system providing an integrated data base for management of patients with complex lesions.

CICU Services for Parents

• Parent Support Group-HOPE (Heart Organization for Parents-and Education) run by parents of children with congenital heart disease and supported by Nicklaus Children's Hospital.
• The CICU offers private rooms and the step-down unit includes a playroom and family lounge. In addition, parents have access to the Michael Fux Family Center featuring a library, movie theater, full kitchen, laundry facilities and gymnasium.