Coronary Care Unit (CCU)

The coronary care unit (CCU) is a dedicated space within the hospital for patients with acute heart problems such as heart attack, unstable angina, rhythm disturbance, cardiogenic shock (occurs when there is failure of the pump action of the heart) and for those patients who have had catheter lab procedures such as insertion of devices like pacemakers and defibrillators, and interventions such as angiograms/angioplasties.

Patients can be admitted from accident and emergency and the medical assessment unit – from home or other wards/specialist areas within the Trust. Each patient receives continuous observation, treatment and specialised care for 24 – 48 hours. This close monitoring facilitates early recognition of changes in a patient’s condition, and early intervention. It is important that a calm, quiet and relaxed environment is promoted in the area.

The unit is made up of four beds and a procedure / pacing room which can be used for cardioversions (a procedure that helps the heart to return to a normal rhythm) temporary pacing wires and transoesophogeal echos (TOE) (a test to create images of the heart chambers, valves and surrounding structures).

Coronary heart disease 

Coronary heart disease is a chronic condition and to help you understand about the impact this has our specialist cardiac rehabilitation nurses will visit you. They will provide you with ongoing information to enable you to make healthier lifestyle choices in the future. These are choices only you can make, so the responsibility for future changes lies with you. All members of staff are happy to help you with any questions or uncertainties you may have so feel free to talk to us at any time.

Your time in the unit is an acute episode which may make you feel concerned for your future. However, the course of your recovery extends far beyond your time in coronary care; our intention is to start you on that journey to independence.