Published: August 2026. Next review: 2031.
The level 4 intensive care unit (ICU) standards provide guidance to support safe, high‑quality and sustainable intensive care services across metropolitan, regional and rural NSW.
Level 4 ICUs are specialised units that manage critically ill patients and provide short‑term life support within a closed, collaborative model, led by an intensive care specialist or an experienced senior clinician.
This resource outlines the role, standards and operational expectations for level 4 ICUs, aligned with the NSW Role Delineation Guidelines of Clinical Services. It is for clinicians, service managers and health planners involved in the delivery of level 4 ICU care services.
The resource includes:
- Guiding principles that describe the intent, values and system expectations underpinning level 4 ICU care.
- Standards that translate these principles into operational requirements for service delivery.
- A self‑assessment tool to support service planning, review and continuous improvement.
Care for Aboriginal people who need intensive care should always be culturally safe. This includes how you engage with families, carers and community; and integrate care with Aboriginal health services to strengthen the Aboriginal workforce and deliver culturally appropriate care.
Use the self-assessment tool (PDF 1.0 MB) together with the standards.
Standards
1. Clinical leadership and governance
Governance arrangements, networks and quality improvement.
2. Workforce
Staff mix and skills, qualifications and experience.
3. Comprehensive care and escalation
Clinical models, patient management processes and networked services.
4. Protocols and procedures
Standardised and clear guidance and pathways.
5. Quality outcomes and national standards
Data collection, quality improvement and ongoing evaluation.
6. Education and training
Workforce education, training and professional development.
7. Technology and sustainability
Equipment, new technologies and services, and sustainability.
