A High Dependency Unit, or HDU, is a section of a hospital, normally near the intensive care unit, where patients can receive more intense care than on a regular ward, but not to the point of intensive care. It is suitable for patients who have undergone major surgery or who have single-organ failure. Patients may be admitted to an HDU bed if they are at risk of requiring intensive care admission, or as a step-down between intensive care & ward-based care.