Transitional Care Unit
Specialized Care for Quicker Recovery
At St. John's Health, we recognize that certain patients need extra time and support before returning home after an acute illness, surgery, or major medical event. Our Transitional Care Unit (TCU) provides specialized care for those patients who need an extended hospital stay before safely returning to their regular activities. Located in the same building as our inpatient physical rehabilitation facility, patients in the TCU benefit from access to a state-of-the-art rehab gym and a dedicated care team that provides expert support and personalized treatment plans.
What is a Transitional Care Unit (TCU)?
The TCU is a bridge from acute hospital care to home. Patients who arrive at our TCU are no longer in need of intensive, hospital-level care but still need medical monitoring, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing services to aid in recovery.
Who Benefits from the TCU?
The TCU is designed for patients recovering from:
- Major surgeries (e.g. orthopedic, cardiac, or abdominal procedures)
- Stroke or neurological conditions
- Serious infection or illness
- Advanced wound care needs
- Prolonged hospitalization with continued monitoring
Personalized Care in a Supportive Environment
Patients in our TCU receive:
- A dedicated physician and care team overseeing recovery
- skilled nursing based on unique needs
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy as needed
- Medication management and wound care
- Assistance with activities of daily living to promote independence
- Modern facility with private suites and picturesque views to encourage healing
TCU vs. ICU vs. PCU vs. IRF: Understanding the Difference
| Unit | Purpose | Patient Needs | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intensive Care Unit (ICU) |
|
Patients requiring continuous monitoring, life support, or advanced interventions | |
| Primary Care Unit (PCU) | Step-down care for patients improving but still needing close monitoring | Patients transitioning out of ICU, needing frequent assessments and moderate medical support | |
| Transitional Care Unit (TCU) | Extended care for recovery before discharge | Patients who no longer need acute hospital care but require rehabilitation and continued medical oversight | |
| Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF) | Intensive rehabilitation for patients recovering from serious injuries, strokes, or surgeries | Patients who can tolerate at least three hours of daily therapy and need specialized rehab for functional recovery |
Preparing for Discharge
Our goal is to help patients regain strength, independence, and confidence before they return home. Our care team collaborates with patients and their families to create a personalized discharge plan, ensuring a smooth and safe transition.
If you or a loved one may benefit from the Transitional Care Unit at St. John's Health, call 307-739-4840 or speak with your care provider.