What does acute care mean Meaning and Definition
What does acute care mean
Pronunciation
/ˈækjuːt keɪr/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of medical care that provides immediate and intensive treatment for patients with severe or life-threatening illnesses or injuries, often in a hospital setting.
Examples
- The patient was admitted to the hospital’s acute care unit for treatment of a severe stroke.
- The intensive care team provided round-the-clock care to the patient in the acute care ward.
Synonyms
- Intensive care
- Critical care
Antonyms
- Chronic care
- Outpatient care
Etymology
The term “acute care” originates from the Latin word “acutus,” meaning “sharp” or “immediate,” and refers to the urgent and intense nature of this type of medical care.
Usage Notes
Acute care is often used in a hospital setting to provide immediate treatment for patients with severe or life-threatening conditions. It may also refer to the level of care provided in an emergency department or intensive care unit.
Additional Information
Acute care is a critical component of modern healthcare, providing patients with the highest level of care and treatment possible. This type of care demands a high level of medical expertise, complex equipment, and close monitoring to ensure the best possible outcomes. Acute care teams typically consist of skilled professionals, including physicians, nurses, and other healthcare specialists, who work together to provide individualized care to each patient.
Acute care can be provided in various settings, including hospitals, emergency departments, and intensive care units. The goal of acute care is to stabilize and treat the patient as quickly as possible, allowing them to recover and return to their normal life.