Pediatric Critical Care
The Division of Critical Care at Lurie Children’s treats children in the Lefkofsky Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). We provide top-quality care using the most recent advancements in equipment and techniques, with specialized attention to pulmonary issues, critical care and other specialty needs.
Approach
We believe in family-centered care, which means we involve the whole family in a patient’s treatment plan. From bringing family members into care plan meetings, to providing support and distraction to a patient’s siblings, we do our best to help fit our care within your lifestyle.
The PICU provides advanced care to children of all ages and with a vast range of serious conditions. The latest interventions and treatments are available in the PICU, including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), specialty ventilation techniques and transplant services. We also work closely with the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Regenstein Cardiac Care Unit (CCU).
The division offers a fellowship program providing comprehensive training to pediatricians in the scientific and clinical practice of pediatric critical care medicine. Learn more about our fellowship program.
Nationally-Ranked Care
Lurie Children’s continues to be the #1 children's hospital in Illinois and is ranked in 11 specialties by U.S. News & World Report.
Conditions We Treat
We treat a wide range of serious medical and surgical conditions, such as:
Main Hospital Critical Care Specialists
Colleen M. Badke, MD
Attending Physician, Critical Care
Matthew Barhight, MD
Attending Physician, Critical Care
Amanda C. Becker, MD
Attending Physician, Critical Care
Central DuPage Hospital Critical Care Specialists
M. Ikram Akhtar, MD
Attending Physician, Critical Care
Elizabeth A. Bello, MD
Pediatric Intensivist, PICU at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Central DuPage Hospital
Rush Affiliated Critical Care Specialists
Stephanie Lam, DO
Attending Physician, Critical Care
Ancy S. Mohan, MD
Attending Physician, Critical Care
Joanna C. Tylka, MD
Attending Physician, Critical Care
Critical Care Research
Our research includes all aspects of delivery of care to critically ill children, including treatment, prevention and understanding of diseases on the most basic biological level. The lessons we learn from our research are directly incorporated into medical practice, keeping Critical Care physicians at Lurie Children’s on the cutting edge of science, wellness, technology and healthcare.
Our Location
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
225 E. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, Illinois 60611
312.227.4000
Critical Care News & Stories
New U.S. Estimates of Sepsis in Kids Point to Urgent Need to Reduce High Mortality Rates
New national data reveals pediatric sepsis affects over 18,000 U.S. hospitalizations each year, with mortality rates remaining unchanged, highlighting an urgent need for improved detection and care.
When Families Can Initiate Access to Interpreters in Pediatric Intensive Care, Communication Time with Medical Team Doubles, Study Shows
Giving families in the PICU direct access to interpreters can double communication with their child’s medical team, according to new research.
From NICU to Kindergarten: Joey's Journey with Down Syndrome
From complex surgeries to first steps, Joey has overcome incredible odds. Supported by a loving family and dedicated care team, Joey's journey with Down syndrome is a testament to a child's resilience.
Mia's Story: A Little Warrior With Big Impact – Living with Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome)
After years of facing several medical challenes, Mia is now a thriving 6-year-old. Her family's journey at Lurie Children's inspired them to found the Edwards Syndrome Association and change lives.
Research Aims to Prevent Lung Damage in Babies and Toddlers with Severe Flu, RSV
Flu and RSV can hit babies and toddlers especially hard. At Lurie Children’s, Dr. Bria Coates is studying how to protect young lungs and help kids recover faster.
Chicago's Top Doctors for Kids 2025
Several of Lurie Children's providers were recognized in Chicago Magazine Castle-Connolly Top Doctors 2025 list.
Philanthropy
Your support is vital in helping us continue to make a difference in the lives of patients and families. Lurie Children's relies on philanthropic funding to enhance its programs, services and research for children. To learn more, please e-mail the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Foundation at foundation@luriechildrens.org or call 312.227.7500.