Advanced Cardiac Nursing Care

At the Stony Brook University Heart Institute, your comfort and well-being are our top priorities. We understand that your interactions with our staff are a major part of your experience. Our highly skilled nursing team is dedicated to providing exceptional patient- and family-centered care.

Our specialized nursing care is provided across several dedicated units within the hospital, each designed to support a specific stage of your recovery.

Specialized Units for Your Cardiac Recovery

Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU) and Step-Down Unit (CTICR)

This is where you will go immediately after heart surgery for close monitoring. After a couple of days, you will move to the adjoining step-down unit as your recovery progresses.

  • Expert staff: Nurses in both units have specialized cardiac critical care training.
     
  • Comfort and privacy: You will have a large, private room with a window, a private bathroom and a shower.
     
  • Family-friendly: Each room includes a sleeper couch for a family member or friend to stay comfortably. A separate family waiting area and private consultation room are also available.

Cardiothoracic Intermediate Care Unit (CICU)

Located on the 16th floor, this 29-bed unit is where you will continue your recovery after leaving the step-down unit until you are ready to go home.

  • Discharge planning: Our Discharge Nurses will prepare you and your family for your return home and will follow up with a phone call after you've been discharged.
     
  • Recovery programs: We offer unique programs to help you recover safely and quickly, like our daily Walking Program at 11 am and 4:30 pm, where music encourages you to walk with our staff.

Cardiac Acute Care Unit (CACU)

Adjacent to the CICU on Level 5, this 25-bed unit provides care for patients who need continuous cardiac monitoring for various cardiovascular conditions.

  • Advanced care: You will receive state-of-the-art care from your healthcare team, including access to a wide range of diagnostic tests.
     
  • Dedicated discharge support: A dedicated Discharge Nurse will work with you and your family to prepare you for a safe discharge.
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