Questions Parents Ask

Find your care

Our pediatric cardiologists provide world-class care. To learn more about our services, call 310-267-7667.

If you would like to refer a patient to the UCLA Congenital Heart Program for congenital heart surgery or for a discussion of surgical candidacy, please complete this Surgical Referral Form.

FAQ for Parents

Where is the CTICU?
The CTICU is located on the 5th floor of Ronald Reagan Medical Center. The address is 757 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90095. The unit is within the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit on the north side of the 5th floor.

How long will my child be admitted to the CTICU?
Your child's length of stay will vary depending on the reason they are admitted. Once your child has stabilized, he or she may be transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit or to the Pediatric Ward.

How do I get information about my child when I am not there?
You can call the CTICU 24 hours a day to get information regarding your child's status. The main phone number is (310) 267-7541.

Who else can get information about my child?
Unless requested by the parents or legal guardian, we will not provide any information regarding your child to anyone.

Who takes care of my child in the CTICU?
Your child will be taken care of by a team of experts with special training in taking care of children with heart disease. There is a nurse assigned to your child 24 hours a day who generally takes care of only your child, but sometimes will also be taking care of one other child in the ICU.

When can I visit my child?
You can visit your child 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There may be times when access to your child may be limited briefly due to procedures or emergencies in the ICU. Please be patient during these times and we will try to give you an estimated time of when you can return to your child's bedside.

Can I sleep in the room with my child?
There is a chair to fold out into a narrow bed in each room for sleeping.

Can I use my cellphone in the CTICU?
You can use your cellphone in the ICU and at the bedside. There is also a phone in your child's room if you would like family and friends to call you there instead.

Can I breastfeed my child while he or she is in the CTICU?
Once your child has stabilized, you can likely resume breastfeeding. Your nurse can also provide equipment for pumping breastmilk until you can resume breastfeeding.