From the first breath in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to the last checkup before college, Bronson Children’s brings together pediatric specialists, compassionate caregivers, and child-friendly environments in perfect harmony—delivering comprehensive care that puts your child first, not just their diagnosis. Take a moment to learn more about how Bronson Children’s supports the youngest patients in the specialized Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and how is it different from other hospital units?
Bronson’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) is a specialized unit with highly skilled doctors and nurses that provide the highest level of care for critically ill and injured children. Our team cares for children that are admitted to the hospital for:
- Severe respiratory illness that may require a ventilator
- Serious brain and nervous system conditions, such as seizures or traumatic brain injuries
- Major injuries due to trauma
- Severe burns
- Dangerous changes in the body’s electrolytes or metabolism
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Ingestions, poisonings or overdoses
- Recovery after surgery
- Other severe or life-threatening conditions
Bronson’s PICU has eight beds and is staffed 24/7 by pediatric specialists, child life experts, hospitalists and care coordinators who work in harmony to provide treatment that is designed specifically for children.
How is a critically ill child admitted to the PICU?
Patients are admitted to the PICU directly from our Trauma & Emergency Department, by referral from regional hospitals, or by transfer from within the children’s hospital. The Bronson Pediatric Transport team is a highly skilled ground team available to rapidly stabilize and safely transport children from regional hospitals to our PICU.
A provider can contact Bronson directly at (269) 341-7654 to reach the PICU doctors and arrange admission.
How is a critically ill child safely transported to the PICU?
If a child needs care at the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, getting them there safely is a top priority.
Bronson Children’s Hospital offers a 24/7 pediatric transport team. The team brings the care of a mobile PICU directly to children at regional hospitals or other medical facilities.
The Bronson pediatric transport team includes specially-trained pediatric professionals who:
- Stabilize children before and during transport
- Use advanced equipment designed for children
- Maintain close communication with referring and receiving care teams
The team cares for children and teens up to age 18 and transports patients from hospitals across southwest Michigan and northern Indiana.
The goal is to make every child and trip as safe and smooth as possible while ensuring each child receives advanced care quickly.
How are families supported while their child is in the PICU?
Bronson Children’s Hospital provides family-centered care that supports both the child and their family. Families play an important role in the patient's recovery and are kept involved throughout the child’s stay.
Support services include:
The care team also communicates clearly and regularly with families to ensure they understand the child’s condition and treatment plan. They create a care environment where whimsical murals, games and toys turn hospital visits into moments of comfort—not just treatment. This approach helps families feel informed, supported and engaged every step of the way.
How does the hospital prevent unnecessary tests or procedures?
Bronson Children’s Hospital is committed to giving patients the care they need while avoiding tests or treatments that are not helpful.
The care team follows evidence-based guidelines and works together when making decisions. Tests and procedures are ordered only when they are likely to improve the child’s health or guide treatment.
This helps reduce discomfort, lower risk and support safer healing for children.
What makes Bronson Children’s Hospital different from other hospitals for critical care?
Bronson Children’s Hospital is the only children’s hospital in southwest and south-central Michigan. Our care is designed just for kids, from newborns through age 18.
The hospital offers pediatric expertise across many areas, including cancer, heart care, neurology and surgery. Equipment and treatments are specifically made for children to enhance a patient’s safety and comfort.
Children in the PICU are cared for by a dedicated team that treats pediatric patients every day. This level of focused care is not typically available in general hospitals.
Specially trained physicians and nurses provide advanced, continuous care for critically ill or injured children 24/7 in the PICU. Families can trust that their child is receiving expert care in a setting designed entirely for pediatric needs.
For parents or caregivers facing a medical emergency, it is important to call 911 immediately.
