Glossary

Intensive care unit

Intensive care unit

Intensivstation·Also: IPS

The intensive care unit is a hospital area for monitoring and treating severely ill or life-threateningly ill people. Vital functions such as breathing and circulation are continuously monitored and supported there. It is often abbreviated as IPS.

Symptoms rather than terms?

Describe what's going on — we'll find the right doctor for you.

Editorial content · as of 9/5/2026