Time critical defined transfer guidelines

Demand for critical care services is frequently high and there may be periods when demand for critical care beds exceeds the immediate supply, leading to no ICU bed being immediately available for a critically ill patient requiring timely and appropriate investigations, interventions or ICU care. In these instances, to safeguard patient care, ARV is authorised to nominate a hospital to receive the patient. This is called a 'defined transfer' and reflects the time critical need for appropriate care for a critically ill patient. These guidelines briefly outline the assessment and transfer procedures for 'defined transfers'.