Question: Why might the patient in Fig 1 need High Dependency care?

Answer: He has had major surgery including a laparotomy, so is at risk of deterioration and needs close monitoring. Note the oxygen concentrator and resuscitation equipment available.

He is nil by mouth, has a nasogastric tube and IV fluids, so needs careful fluid management, monitoring of urine output and fluid balance.

He has had a laparotomy and orthopaedic surgery, so requires good analgesia and care of multiple wounds.

He is immobile in traction, so is at risk of deep vein thrombosis and pressure sores, and needs more nursing care.