Difference between ACU and PCU?

Nurses General Nursing

Published

This may be a dumb question but what is the difference between a Progressive Care Unit and Acute Care Unit? I am thinking PCU must be patients that need close monitor but not as close as ICU (sort of like a step down unit from ICE) and ACU is more like Med/Surg or is the same thing as Med/Surg?

Thanks

YankeeHater

24 Posts

hmmm, never heard those terms. Sorry, can't help you.

ACU deals with the requisite treatment of a disease, which is in a severe stage, for a short period. The services rendered are like those in an emergency department. The aim is to ensure a quick discharge.

PCUs are more specialized and focus on specific systems. They are also technologically better upgraded and involve greater monitoring than med/surg units.

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