Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the PICU and PCTICU?
The PICU and PCTICU are located on the 5th floor of Ronald Reagan Medical Center. The address is 757 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90095. Both units are on the North side of the 5th floor.

How long will my child be admitted to the PICU or PCTICU?
Your child's length of stay will vary depending on the reason they are admitted. Once your child has stabilized, he or she may be transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit or to the Pediatric Ward.

How do I get information about my child when I am not there?
You can call the PICU or CTICU 24 hours a day to get information regarding your child's status. The main phone number is (310) 267-7540.

Who else can get information about my child?
Unless requested by the parents or legal guardian, we will not provide any information regarding your child to anyone.

Who takes care of my child in the PICU or PCTICU?
Your child will be taken care of by a team of experts with special training in pediatric intensive care. There is a nurse assigned to your child 24 hours a day who generally takes care only of your child, but sometimes will also be taking care of one other child in the PICU.

When can I visit my child?
You can visit your child 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There may be times when access to your child may be limited briefly due to procedures or emergencies in the PICU / PCTICU. Please be patient during these times and we will try to give you an estimated time of when you can return to your child's bedside.

Can I sleep in the room with my child?
There is a chair to fold out into a narrow bed in each room for sleeping. Frequent patient assessments are made throughout the night, and although we will try as much as possible not to disturb you, you should expect regular interruptions to your sleep.

Can I use my cellphone in the PICU or PCTICU?
You can use your cellphone in the PICU / PCTICU and at the bedside. There is also a phone in your child's room if you would like family and friends to call you there instead. Wireless internet access is also available.

Can I breastfeed my child while he or she is in the PICU or PCTICU?
Once your child has stabilized, you can likely resume breastfeeding. If your child is unable to breastfeed, you can express milk with a breast pump and store it for use when your child is able to eat. We will provide the breast pump and supplies.