A High Dependency Unit (HDU) looks after patients who are more unwell than those on a normal ward.

They may have one failing organ system, or require postoperative care.

HDU has more nurses and more monitoring, allowing closer observation of patients.

HDU may provide more complex interventions such as non-invasive ventilation, invasive monitoring or epidural care.

An Intensive Care Unit (ICU) looks after patients who require mechanical ventilation or have two or more failing organ systems.

If there is no ICU in the hospital these patients may be in HDU.