Critical care, also known as intensive care, is a specialized area of healthcare that caters to patients with severe, life-threatening illnesses or injuries. These patients require constant, close monitoring and support from a team of specially-trained healthcare professionals. The goal of critical care is not only to treat the immediate life-threatening condition but also to prevent secondary health problems and to support the patient's overall well-being. 

Critical care is a multidisciplinary field that involves a wide range of medical professionals including but not limited to: 

• Doctors

• Nurses

• Respiratory therapists 

• Pharmacists

• Dietitians 

• Social workers 

These professionals work together to provide comprehensive, coordinated care to critically ill patients. 

Key aspects of critical care: 

• Intensive and continuous monitoring of patients 

• Quickly detecting any changes in the patient's condition 

• Respond immediately and efficiently 

In addition to monitoring, critical care also involves providing life-supporting treatments. 

This can include: 

• Mechanical ventilation to assist with breathing 

• Dialysis to support kidney function 

• Medications to control heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital functions 

• In some cases, patients in critical care may also require surgery or other invasive procedures.

Critical care also involves providing support to the patient's family. 

This can include:

• Providing information and updates about the patient's condition 

• Helping to make decisions about treatment options 

• Providing emotional support 

In conclusion, critical care is a specialized area of healthcare that provides intensive monitoring and treatment for patients with severe, life-threatening illnesses or injuries.