Q: Pediatric Progressive Care Unit (PCU)

This 24-bed unit within the critical care continuum manages medically complex, mechanically ventilated, tracheostomy dependent patients. The unit provides a nationally recognized education and training program that supports technology dependent children's discharge to home.

Question 1

Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)

Accepted Answer

This 74-bed, blended acuity, multidisciplinary unit serves critically ill children who require the most advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services. You’ll work with advanced technologies, including high-frequency ventilation devices, sophisticated neurological monitoring devices, Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), Peritoneal Dialysis, and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT).

Sub-units:

PICU South: 24-bed unit with a mixed medical and surgical population. Patients require intensive care in a variety of medical subspecialties, including a specific subset of oncology receiving radioactive therapy.
PICU Main: 26-bed unit with a mixed medical and surgical population. Patients require intensive care in a variety of medical subspecialties.
PICU West: 24-bed unit predominately focused on neurocritical care patients. You'll also see patients that require pediatric intensive care.

Question 2

Pediatric Progressive Care Unit (PCU)

Accepted Answer

This 24-bed unit&#xa0;within the critical care continuum manages medically complex, mechanically ventilated, tracheostomy dependent patients. The unit provides a nationally recognized education and training program that supports technology dependent children's discharge to home.

Question 3

Cardiac Care Unit (CCU)

Accepted Answer

This unit provides intermediate-level care to patients—ranging from newborns to young adults—with congenital and acquired heart disease, primary rhythm abnormalities, or who are recovering from surgical procedures. CCU patients may require non-invasive ventilation, such as CPAP/BiPaP and stable trachs; mechanical support, such as ventricular assist devices (VADs); or continuous inotropic infusions to support heart function.&#xa0;

Question 4

Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU)

Accepted Answer

This unit cares for patients with congenital and acquired heart conditions that require medical or surgical intervention, some within hours of being born. One of the largest in the world, CHOP’s CICU is led by highly trained medical providers, nurses, and respiratory therapists. State-of-the-art medical technology—including ventricular assist devices (VAD), ECMO, dialysis—and open-heart transplants are readily seen in the CICU. &#xa0;Nurse care for 1-2 patients in the assignment based on the acuity of the patients.

Question 5

Newborn/Infant Intensive Care Unit (N/IICU)

Accepted Answer

The Harriet and Ronald Lassin Newborn/Infant Intensive Care Unit (N/IICU) offers the latest technology for sick newborns and infants. Nurses join a team of top neonatologists and pediatric surgeons; participate in cutting-edge neonatology, surgical, and pediatric subspecialty care research; and support deliveries in our Special Delivery Unit. CHOP’s 100-bed N/IICU is spread over five individual units, each with its own manager and leadership team.&#xa0; Sub-units:&#xa0; NICU West 1:&#xa0;17-bed unit that sees&#xa0;all surgical diagnoses (gastroschisis, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, omphalocele, tracheoesophageal fistula, etc.). NICU West 2:&#xa0;24-bed unit focused predominantly on&#xa0;surgical diagnoses, but includes a&#xa0;mixed medical population.* NICU Central:&#xa0;12-bed unit&#xa0;for surgical overflow, mixed medical population,&#xa0;and&#xa0;patients who need peritoneal dialysis therapy. NICU East:&#xa0;24-bed unit with a mixed medical and chronic lung disease population (patients who require&#xa0;airway evaluations, potential trachs, etc.). NICU Northeast:&#xa0;24-bed unit with&#xa0;mixed medical population, chronic lung disease population, the&#xa0;preemie core team, and the developmental care team. Extremely Low Birth Weight patients are cared for on this unit.&#xa0; *Mixed medical populations include birth trauma, sepsis, prematurity, respiratory distress, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), meconium aspiration, and more.

Question 6

12 Northwest: General Pediatrics

Accepted Answer

The 12NW General Pediatrics Unit is a 16-bed inpatient medical unit dedicated to caring for general pediatric patients. This unit provides comprehensive medical care for children with common diagnoses such as asthma, pneumonia, viral illnesses, gastroenteritis, and dehydration.

Patients on 12NW typically present with three or fewer medical problems, and the average length of stay is approximately 2.5 days.

Staffing and Care Delivery

Average Nursing Care Hours: Each patient requires approximately 11 hours of nursing care per day.
80% of care is delivered by Registered Nurses (RNs).
20% of care is provided by Senior Nursing Aides or Nursing Students.

Patient Volume
The average daily census for the Medical Hospitalist Care Unit is 14.4 patients per day.

Question 7

11 Northwest: Complex Care/General Pediatrics

Accepted Answer

16-bed inpatient unit for medically complex pediatric patients that are followed by 3 or more subspecialties and general pediatric population. Our unit primarily provides care for the infant and toddler population (ages 2mth-3yrs) but can also see patients that are generally under the ages of 10-12. The complex care service is typically comprised of ex- NICU patients that are stable enough to no longer require intensive care but require more care than the needs of a general pediatrics service. We see a multitude of diagnoses, but our primary complex care population consists of infants and toddlers with variations of chronic lung disease, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, short bowel syndrome, endocrine issues, and ophthalmology. The general pediatric population includes patients with bronchiolitis, RSV, gastroenteritis, malnutrition and more. Our unit typically has 10 patients on the complex care service and 6 patients on the General Pediatrics service.&#xa0;

Question 8

9 South: Neurology

Accepted Answer

The 9 South Neuroscience Unit is a 24-bed inpatient medical unit for neurology and general pediatrics patients. Can flex up to 28 beds with treatment room and 3 doubled rooms for increased capacity needs.&#xa0; On Neuroscience unit we see a mixture of neurology & general pediatric patients. This unit is unique due to the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) to diagnose new onset seizures. The neurology population includes but not limited to patients with; epilepsy, keto initiation, multiple sclerosis, Guillain Barre syndrome, transverse myelitis, encephalitis, optic neuritis, migraine, and neurosurgical patients. The general pediatric patient population includes but is not limited to; behavioral health, asthma, bronchiolitis, meningitis, feeding intolerance and cellulitis.

Question 9

8 South/8 Central: Pulmonary/Complex Care

Accepted Answer

Our 34-bed unit specializes in the care of patients of all ages with pulmonary and complex medical needs, many of whom are technology-dependent. A significant portion of our patient population has compromised lung function from birth, often due to prematurity and other co-morbidities, including neurologic and developmental challenges. Our complex care population consists of a specialized group of patients requiring coordinated care across multiple consulting services. These patients often have longer stays or return to our unit intermittently throughout their lives. In addition, we provide care for general pediatric patients with a range of medical conditions.&#xa0; Our goal is to provide high-quality, patient and family centered care to all. We welcome nurses at all stages of their careers who share our passion for these values. Our unit has a proven track record of successfully integrating nurses into a fast-paced environment where high acuity, time management, and critical thinking are key to success. We are proud of our inclusive and supportive culture, where every team member is valued and empowered. We would love for you to visit and experience the culture and atmosphere of our unit firsthand!

Question 10

5 South/5 West B: Gastrointestinal/Endocrine

Accepted Answer

We are a 37-bed GI and Endocrine unit and we principally care for patients with diabetes, additional endocrine disorders and digestive system issues, non-bacterial gastroenteritis and malnutrition. Over the past year, we have cared for over 3,000 patients, whose average age ranges from 1to 14years of age. Almost all admissions are unplanned and have a median length of stay of 2 days. About 18%of our patients require surgery, about 40% are medically complex and and about 30% have a scheduled follow-up appointment. Fewer than 5% of our patients are readmitted within 7-days.&#xa0; 25% are technologically dependent. Most patients go home with 3-11 medications prescribed.

Question 11

5 West A: Medical Subspecialties

Accepted Answer

This 20-bed unit treats a range of patients, including those with nephrotic syndrome, Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), acute and chronic renal failure, Sickle Cell disease, anemia, and hemophilia, as well as children who are peritoneal dialysis (PD) or hemodialysis (HD) dependent and pre- or post-kidney transplant.

Question 12

5 East: Intermediate Care and General Pediatrics

Accepted Answer

5E is a 22-bed unit that typically provides care for all-aged patients who no longer require intensive care monitoring in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU). In addition, we care for patients from local subspecialties and the general pediatric population. The cardiac patient population transitioning from the CICU includes medical management and pre- and post-surgical care of patients with a variety of acquired and congenital heart defects.

Question 13

4 East: Surgical/Trauma/Infant Transitional Care

Accepted Answer

1 of 2 inpatient surgical units at CHOP. 4 East is a 22-bed unit comprised of seven different surgical services. The multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care to a variety of medically complex children with ages ranging from infant to adolescent. Common diagnoses/surgical procedures include appendectomies, posterior spinal fusions, hernia repairs, and complex urologic procedures. Our nurses are trained to care for our trauma population, as well as patients requiring chest tubes, wound vacs, tracheostomies, and central venous catheters. The Infant Transitional Care Unit population accounts for 10 of the 22 beds. This population consists of post-surgical infants that have recently transferred out of the NICU.

Question 14

4 South: Surgery/Trauma

Accepted Answer

The 4 South Surgical/Trauma Unit is a 24-bed inpatient medical/surgical unit, caring for multiple surgical populations, trauma, and general pediatric patients. The multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care to a variety of medically complex children with ages ranging from infant to adolescent. Common diagnoses/surgical procedures include appendectomies, posterior spinal fusions, hernia repairs, lymphatics, and complex urologic procedures. Our nurses are trained to care for our trauma population, as well as patients requiring chest tubes, wound vacs, and tracheostomies.

Question 15

4 West: Adolescent

Accepted Answer

This 20-bed unit located in Children’s Seashore House cares for patients ages 12 and older with a wide array of medical and behavioral health diagnoses. The care team includes physicians, nurses, advanced practice providers, social workers, inpatient clerks, Behavioral Health clinicians, and Child Life experts who emphasize collaboration and strive to deliver safe, effective care to all patients and families.&#xa0;

Question 16

4 East: Medical Behavioral

Accepted Answer

Located in Children’s Seashore House, this 10-bed single room unit treats patients with acute medical illness and behavioral concerns (i.e., acute delirium, ingestion, Autism, diabetic suicidal ideation); those who may not have active medical concerns, but are awaiting inpatient placement or additional services; and general pediatric needs (ages 2+).

Question 17

3 East: Adolescent/General Pediatrics

Accepted Answer

We are a 15-bed general pediatrics unit, and we primarily care for patients with asthma, bronchiolitis, and malnutrition/failure to thrive. Over the past year, we have cared for over 1,000 patients, whose average age at admission is 2.5 years old. Our patient’s median length of stay is 1.5 days.&#xa0;

Question 18

3 East Oncology: Bone Marrow Transplant

Accepted Answer

26 Bed unit specializing in the care of Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant patients. Care for all ages -infancy to early adulthood. Common diagnoses treated on the unit include Leukemia, Lymphoma, Solid Organ Tumors, Neuro Oncology disease processes which may result in Stem Cell Transplant.

Question 19

3 South Oncology: General Oncology

Accepted Answer

24 bed medical unit specializing in the care of Oncology patients. We care for children of all ages, ranging from infancy to early adulthood. Common diagnoses treated on the unit include Leukemia, Lymphoma, Solid Organ Tumors and Neuro Oncology disease.

Question 20

Day Medicine (Clinical Nurse Only)

Accepted Answer

Day Medicine is an outpatient infusion center located in the Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care. Hours are 0730-6pm, Monday through Friday with one evening a week until 9 pm. On average 25 patients per day are treated in Day Medicine. The unit provides care to patients who are seen by 9 different divisions. The staff mainly treat children with chronic conditions who fall under services such as neurology, immunology, rheumatology, endocrinology, dermatology and renal who need frequent IV therapies. Staff are proficient in PIC placement and central line access. All staff are PALS certified. This is a fast-paced dynamic area to work in with opportunities for growth and professional development.&#xa0;

Question 21

Day Hospital Oncology Clinic (Clinical Nurse Only)

Accepted Answer

Oncology Clinic and Day Hospital is in the Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care. Outpatient Oncology sees an average 100 patients per day, Monday-Friday 0730am-9pm. The clinic is closed on weekends and holidays however there is a phone triage nurse staffed every day, including holidays. Nurses partner with attending physicians, fellows and APPS to provide care to the patient population. Other areas within the clinic include, the general anesthesia procedure and recovery area, as well as day hospital infusion area. Bone marrow aspirates and lumbar punctures are performed daily therefore all nurses are PALS certified. The day hospital cares for both hematology and oncology patients, administering blood products and chemotherapy. Oncology clinic also functions as the ER for the oncology population daily until 6pm. All staff are proficient in PIV placement and central line care. This is a fast-paced dynamic area to work in with opportunities for growth and professional development.

Question 22

Observation Unit

Accepted Answer

The fast-paced, 16-bed General Pediatrics observation unit primarily cares for patients from the Emergency Room who require a 24- to 72-hour admission for bronchiolitis/RSV, asthma, BRUE, common childhood infections, infant fevers, failure to thrive, constipation/dehydration, and hyperbilirubinemia. Specialty populations include post-operative patients recovering from arm/leg fractures, cholecystectomy, appendectomy, tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy, and urology procedures. This multidisciplinary team—including nurses, attendings, social workers, case managers, respiratory therapists, and Child Life specialists—partners on care management, nursing interventions, and discharge planning. The patient to RN ratio is typically 4:1. &#xa0;

Question 23

Extended Care Unit

Accepted Answer

This unit is comprised of a general pediatric and lower acuity medically cleared behavioral health patients. Patients are from the Emergency Room who requires a 24-72 observation admission. The Extended Care Unit nurses provide compassionate, evidence-based, patient-family centered care to children requiring close observation and treatment after an emergency department visit. Collaborative teamwork, professional advancement opportunities, and participation in multidisciplinary quality improvement projects are core components of this nursing team. 24-72 hours target to go home.&#xa0;

Question 24

3 West: Physical Medicine and Rehab Unit

Accepted Answer

Our Rehabilitation Unit at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is an 18-bed unit that is built on a foundation of delivering safe, high quality, family centered care that has fostered medical discoveries and innovations that have improved pediatric healthcare. Our Rehabilitation Unit specializes in treating children recovering from brain injury, stroke, spinal cord or orthopedic trauma, neuromuscular and more, empowering them and their families through intensive evidence-based care. After an illness, surgery or injury, rehabilitation helps patients regain strength, skills and function in order to reach their fullest potential. Recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) for its excellent care, the unit offers interdisciplinary treatment tailored to each child’s needs from nursing, physical, occupational, and speech therapy to neuropsychology, integrative health, and child life programs.

Question 25

Cedar Avenue

Accepted Answer

CHOP's first inpatient behavioral health facility at Cedar Avenue will include a 46-bed acute inpatient psychiatric unit and a walk-in crisis response center.

Divided into child and adolescent units, our inpatient psychiatric program will serve a diverse group of youth ranging from 7 to 17 years old. Multidisciplinary teams include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, behavioral health clinicians, creative art therapists, behavioral analysts, and teachers. Care focuses on patient safety, developing appropriate coping skills, improving social functioning, decreasing maladaptive behavior, and more.

Our Crisis Response Center (CRC) will be open 24/7, providing crisis triage, evaluation, support, and community-based resources that promote wellness and help children thrive at home, school, and beyond.

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