High-Containment Pathogen Preparation in the Intensive Care Unit

The recent Ebola virus disease outbreak highlighted the need to build national and worldwide capacity to provide care for patients with highly infectious diseases. Specialized biocontainment units were successful in treating several critically ill patients with Ebola virus disease both in the United States and Europe. Several key principles underlie the care of critically ill patients in a high-containment environment. Environmental factors, staffing, equipment, training, laboratory testing, procedures, and waste management each present unique challenges. A multidisciplinary approach is key to developing effective systems and protocols to maintain the safety of patients, staff, and communities.