The Paediatric High Dependency Unit (PHDU) is a six bedded unit situated at the end of the inpatient ward.
We care for paediatric patients 0 - 16 years that require an enhanced level of observation and monitoring, and those that require non-invasive ventilation. We have fully equipped bed spaces with cardiac monitors at each bed side so continuous monitoring can be carried out.
Our team comprises of nurses, doctors and allied health professionals.
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is a teaching hospital and you may be cared for by nursing and medical students during your child’s stay. We work closely with our colleagues in Physiotherapy and Dietetics.
Staffing
The nurse/patient ratio is 1:2. All the staff working within the PHDU team are very experienced and have undertaken Paediatric High Dependency and/or intensive care training.
Support
If your child’s condition requires intensive care, a doctor will discuss this with you and your child will be transferred to a paediatric intensive care unit at another hospital for appropriate care.
Across all our ward areas, we work with our colleagues in the play team and catering to make your child’s stay as comfortable as possible. Please ask if you need assistance with play activities or nutrition and hydration while you are with us.
If you wish to discuss any aspect of your child’s care please ask to speak to the ward manager, on-call senior nurse or consultant on duty.
Last reviewed: 12 June 2026