The ACCU (Acute Cardiac Care Unit) is a 44-bed inpatient unit specializing in the care of high-acuity pediatric cardiac patients. The ACCU functions as a higher-acuity floor that supports the care progression of patients transitioning from the ICU, operating similarly to a step-down unit while maintaining higher acuity than a traditional inpatient floor. The unit operates under a collaborative coverage model that includes both Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) and residents, ensuring continuous and comprehensive patient care.
BC
Critical Care Certification is required Care Model With the ACCU now at 44 beds, patient care is supported by three daily rounding teams: two General Cardiology teams (Train and Star) and the Heart Failure/Heart Transplant (Balloon) team. The Train team is staffed with residents and APPs, with a cardiology fellow supervising and a General Cardiology attending. The Star team is staffed by APPs and General Cardiology attendings. The Balloon team is staffed by the HF/Heart Transplant attending, a resident, and an APP
1. General Cardiology
a. Includes pre- and post-operative patients b. Management of congenital and acquired cardiac conditions
2. PACC (Pediatric Advanced Cardiac Care) focused on Heart Failure and Heart Transplant
a. Includes transplant candidates and post-transplant care
b. Complex medical management of advanced heart failure patients APPs on the ACCU provide care across both service lines and may be assigned to any of the three rounding teams, requiring advanced clinical expertise and adaptability. APPs write daily notes.
Acuity Highlights:
Patients often present with complex needs, including:
Stable VADs (Ventricular Assist Devices)
Trach/ventilator dependence • Inotropic infusions: Milrinone and Dopamine
Chest tubes (including management and removal)
External pacing wires (AAI mode only)
Stable peritoneal dialysis Staffing Ratios:
Day Shift: 6-7 patients per provider, 7-8 total providers weekdays and weekends (APPs residents) Night Shift: up to 15 patients per provider; 3 total providers (2 APPs and 1 resident)
