Tropical Medicine
Clinical experience is punctuated by exposure to Tropical Infectious Diseases, and toxic envenomations, supported by thrice weekly meetings with Infectious Disease specialists and access to a dynamic Toxicology service.
Indigenous Health
About 30% of all patients admitted to the ICU are Indigenous, some from very remote communities on the Cape and Torres Strait. We work with our Indigenous Liason officers to provide culturally safe care in an environment that is clinically complex and geographically challenging.
Research
Cairns ICU is active in the research space undertaking research within the unit, including recent publications in conjunction with the medical and ID departments. With the support of our research nurse, the ICU is participating in ANZICS mutlticentre trials such as MEGAROX and FEISTY II.
Teamwork
We enjoy working in a multidisciplinary team in a friendly and supportive environment. Close relationships with Social Work, Indigenous Liason Officers, Allied Health team help the Medical and Nursing team acheive the best possible outcomes for our patients. JMOs have a monthly wellness breakfast to support them in the challenges of training.
Meet some of the team here.
Outreach
ICU provides outreach to the hospital with tracheostomy outreach and TPN provision. ICU attends more than 500 met calls per year, supporting home teams in the management of the deteriorating patient.
Support
Social Work in the Cairns ICU specialises in providing trauma, grief and loss support to our patients and their families. Our hospital is located at the gateway to the Cape and Torres Strait, and Cairns itself is a renowned multicultural destination. This means we work with a diverse clientele and adapt our practices to provide support according to each person or family’s needs. Our social work skills and values bring a unique, crucial skillset to the multidisciplinary team at the Cairns ICU where every day is different and dynamic.
Allied Health
Our Allied Health team are a dynamic bunch of Physios, Dieticians, Speech Therapists and Occupational Therapists dedicated to the care of our patients. We support early mobilisation with ceiling hoists and in bed cycling; tracheostomy care; and complex nutritional cases which draw on the strengths and expertise of our amazing MDT.
Our team is extremely supportive, always considering the patients' goals of care and how Allied Health can best support this
We love working here because of the mutual respect across all professions and clinicians, we value the team and the team values us
