Coxwell Entrance Closure

MGH's main entrance on Coxwell Avenue is closed as the next phase of our redevelopment project begins. Patients and visitors can use the new temporary main entrance on Sammon Avenue between Coxwell Avenue and Knight Street. View our campus map.

Long Stay Critical Care Program at MGH

  • This program is for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients who may be able to come off the mechanical ventilator breathing machine but still need close monitoring, frequent suctioning, or strong medications that increase blood pressure (vasopressors).
  • The LSP is a 6-bed unit inside our ICU.
  • It is staffed by ICU doctors and nurses who specialize in helping patients come off ventilators.

MGH ICU Room

Care in the LSP unit

  • When a patient moves to the LSP, our team meets with the patient and family.
  • Together, we make a care plan that fits the patient’s needs and goals for recovery.
Recovery Process
  • In the LSP, we help patients:
    • Use the mechanical ventilator breathing machine less over time
    • Get stronger and move more (sitting, standing, walking)
    • Communicate using special tools
    • Take the right medicines safely
    • Support mental and emotional health
    • Build strength with good nutrition 
Family Participation
  • Families are an important part of the care team.
  • We encourage family members to be involved and help support the care plan that matches the patient’s wishes and goals.
Medical Updates

  • Families will get regular updates from the Clinical Utilization Coordinator or the patient’s primary nurse.
  • If there are major changes to the patient’s condition or treatment, a doctor will call to explain.
  • To make sure communication is clear, we ask families to name one primary contact person (spokesperson).
  • If no one is named, we will contact the Power of Attorney (POA) or Substitute Decision Maker (SDM).
Family Meetings
  • Family meetings can be arranged through the Clinical Utilization Coordinator.
  • These meetings include updates from the doctor and a chance for the patient, family, and healthcare team to talk about progress, treatment plans, and goals of care.
Transitioning from the LSP unit
  • When a patient improves, they may move to:
    • The Provincial Prolonged Ventilation Weaning Centre of Excellence (PWC) at MGH
    • A general medical unit
    • A rehab hospital
    • Their first original hospital
    • Their home with Home Care services
  • If a patient still needs some ventilator support, they may move to:
    • The Provincial Prolonged Ventilation Weaning Centre of Excellence (PWC) at MGH
    • Their first original hospital
    • A long-term ventilation centre

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Us
Melanie Liavas, Clinical Utilization Coordinator
Location
J2
Phone
Phone: 416-671-5716
Melanie.Liavas@tehn.ca
Steve Manning, Manager, Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
Location
J2
Phone
Phone: 416-469-6580 ext. 2759
Referral forms
Long Stay Critical Care Program - One-Pager
Learn more about the success of this program
Weaning Programs information for patients and families.
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