At Texas Children’s, we’re always prepared to care for our most vulnerable patients, no matter the challenge. One of the most unique aspects of this commitment is the Special Isolation Unit (SIU) at West Campus—a first-of-its-kind biocontainment unit designed specifically to care for individuals with highly-contagious diseases. What makes this unit extraordinary is the dedicated Special Response Team, a group of highly trained volunteers from across the hospital who stand ready to respond when needed most.
The Heart of the SIU: The Volunteer Special Response Team
While the SIU is an advanced medical facility, the driving force behind its success is the dedicated team of volunteers who make it possible. The Special Response Team is staffed by physicians, advanced practice providers (APPs), registered nurses, respiratory therapists, medical technologists, infection control specialists, and environmental services (EVS). In addition, the unit relies on an extended support team that includes TCH security, media and PR teams, food services, child life specialists, social workers, and more.
Volunteer training
Team members are pulled from their home units to staff the SIU in the event of activation. To maintain their readiness, they undergo training three times per year, focusing on high-level personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols and simulated patient care scenarios within SIU rooms. Training extends beyond technical skills—it fosters teamwork, trust, and cohesion. Education also covers emerging global outbreaks, virology concepts, and infection control best practices, ensuring the team is always up to date on the latest in infectious disease management.
A unit like no other
Built in 2015, the SIU was created for pediatric patients with special pathogens, including viral hemorrhagic fevers, novel coronaviruses, and MPOX clade 1. This state-of-the-art facility includes eight uniquely designed rooms on the 5th floor acute care unit, each ICU-capable and equipped with dialysis lines if necessary. With HEPA filtration, negative pressure rooms, and clean, easily sanitized surfaces, the unit ensures the highest level of infection control. In cases of respiratory virus outbreaks, the SIU can expand to accommodate up to 18 patients.
Beyond patient rooms, the SIU houses a specialized laboratory, three dedicated autoclaves for sterilization of category A biohazardous waste, and pass-thru boxes to minimize staff exposure. Large windows and in-room cameras improve visualization, while a family care room with AV technology allows parents to stay connected to their child without risk of exposure. Once activated, the unit is strictly badge-access only, maintaining a one-directional flow to ensure maximum safety.
Join the SIU Team
We are recruiting health professionals who have completed at least one year of service at TCH with experience in Critical Care, Emergency Care or Acute Care environments.
Click here to fill out the interest form.
