Welcome to our Neurological Intensive Care Unit (Neuro ICU)
At St. Joseph’s/Candler, we understand the complex nature of neurological care. Our Neurological Intensive Care Unit (Neuro ICU) is dedicated to providing specialized, high-quality treatment for patients with serious neurological conditions. Located on the second floor of the hospital, our unit is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and designed to deliver exceptional care for those experiencing neurological emergencies or recovery from surgery.
What we treat
Our Neuro ICU is equipped to care for patients with a wide variety of neurological conditions, including stroke, brain tumors, aneurysms/brain bleeds, brain surgeries and spinal/back surgeries.
Our team of experts is committed to providing the best possible care for each patient, using the latest advancements in neurology. With a high volume of stroke patients in our region, our dedicated unit ensures that every patient receives the specialized care they need in a timely and efficient manner.
State-of-the-art facilities
Our Neuro ICU spans 14,000 square feet and is designed to provide a calm and comfortable environment for both patients and their families. The unit includes:
- Private, Spacious Patient Rooms: Each room is designed for comfort and equipped with ample natural light, offering a peaceful space to recover. Ten rooms feature windows that provide sunlight, and two rooms are fitted with skylights to enhance the healing environment.
- Comfort for Families: Each room is equipped with a fold-out couch for a family member to stay overnight, offering a convenient space for rest and support. We encourage family involvement in the recovery process, with spaces designed for visitors to feel comfortable and engaged in their loved one's care.
- Family Waiting Area: A dedicated waiting area allows family members to relax in a warm and private space while awaiting updates on their loved one's condition. This space is designed to support emotional well-being during difficult times.
- Nursing Stations: Our nursing units are located in pods directly outside patient rooms, allowing for quick and constant access to patients and enabling nurses to closely monitor their care.
The importance of lighting in recovery
We believe that the environment plays a crucial role in recovery, especially for neurological patients. That’s why every room in our Neuro ICU is designed with attention to lighting. Exposure to natural sunlight helps patients maintain their circadian rhythm, promoting better rest and recovery. This is particularly important for patients recovering from strokes, as sundown syndrome—a condition where patients become disoriented in the late afternoon or evening—can be exacerbated by a lack of natural light.
Our staff
The Neuro ICU is staffed by a dedicated team of experienced physicians, nurses and specialists who are all trained in the latest neurological care techniques. Our team is here not only to manage the medical aspects of care but also to provide emotional support and guidance to families during what is often a difficult and stressful time.
Visitation guidelines
We understand that family and loved ones play an essential role in the recovery process. Our visitation policy ensures that family members can be involved while maintaining a healing environment for the patient:
Visiting hours:
- 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Quiet time from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Overnight Visitors: One visitor may stay overnight, but we encourage everyone to take rest at home to maintain their well-being.
Only two visitors are allowed at a time, except in comfort care or bereavement situations.
- No visitors under the age of 12, unless otherwise mandated (e.g., during flu season).
- During medical procedures, visitors may be asked to step out of the room to maintain the patient’s safety and comfort.
Patient privacy and communication
To protect patient privacy, we have implemented a password system for communicating patient information over the phone. Families can add a password to the account to ensure that sensitive information is shared only with authorized individuals.
Your advocates in care
Our Neuro ICU is not just a place for treatment—it is a healing environment where empathy meets innovation, and families become part of the care team.
We believe that recovery is a collaborative journey. That’s why we prioritize building meaningful, trusting relationships with every family that walks through our doors. From the moment a patient is admitted, we take the time to listen, to explain, and to empower.
Our healthcare providers are not only clinical experts in neurological care—they are also dedicated advocates, educators and partners. We ensure families are fully informed and actively engaged in every step of the care process, making complex medical decisions easier to understand and navigate.
Here, your voice matters; your questions are welcome; and your presence is valued as a vital part of the healing process. Together, we work toward the best possible outcomes, honoring both the science of medicine and the humanity of care.