The new normal: Chronic stay in the paediatric ICU

Advances in treatment options have resulted in a growing population of children who require chronic medical support in order to survive: children with medical complexity (CMC). Their complex medical needs are not easily met outside the hospital. The gap between the protective hospital environment and home proves to be extensive, which is why it is extremely challenging for this particular group of patients and their families to make that transition. In this case report, on the background of a child with medical complexity who endured an extremely lengthy admission to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU), we will elaborate on the changes that are occurring in PICUs worldwide due to the growing CMC population as well as a transitional care unit as a possible intervention for this pressing issue.