The guys I know work in week blocks...pretty busy and then do OR time when not covering. They share SICU coverage with surgical critical care group and cover the neuro ICU.
As for procedures, our surgery service provides most trachs in the ICUs using a modified bedside percutaneous approach. They are generally prompt but are known for delaying trachs because "they are too busy" or perseverating about marginal and insignificant lab values.
Occasionally, we will consult ENT to place a tracheostomy in the OR if we deem the patient too high risk for our general surgeons' bedside approach.
Perc trachs are a skill that can be acquired with appropriate tutelage and proven safe in appropriate patients. The procedure is employed by intensivists of all types, with the appropriate training and careful attention to patient selection.
Echoing LaCirjuana sentiments about bad trachs...I have seen trachs placed by surgery, ENT and pulm/CCM go bad...Oft times because judgement was swayed by time constraints or inability to book OR time...which is inexcusable from my standpoint...but happens in the real world of busy, big hospitals.
Regardless of who performs this anal-sphincter tightening procedure...picking the appropriate procedure for the patient and his/her situation is of paramount importance.
As for PEGs, its shared by our surgeons and gastroenterologists with radiology available in certain situations.
