The region's only intensive care specifically for children

The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at St. Mary's Children's Hospital cares for infants through age 17 from all around the Northland who require 24-hour monitoring and treatment. Our staff includes three Pediatric Intensivists — Pediatricians specially trained to care for critically ill children — and expert, committed registered nurses. They combine specialized medical knowledge with compassion to give children and families truly outstanding care.

Children come to the PICU through a number of routes, including the emergency room, LifeFlight (air medical transport), ambulance, and referral by their primary care physician. Doctors from out of the area often consult with us to determine whether a child should be transported to our PICU.

Care with kids in the center

When a child comes to us, we center care around them. From our medical staff to equipment to methods of treatment, it's all kid-oriented. The Children's Hospital has a Child Life Specialist on staff who helps kids with diversional activities and medical play, state-of-the art equipment specifically sized for children, and a policy that recognizes how important it is to kids to have a parent present during their illness. We know that you want to be there when your child needs you most, so we never ask you to leave.