Yu Kawai

Yu Kawai, M.D., is a Clinical Assistant Professor at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, affiliated with the Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. As a Pediatric Critical Care Specialist, he focuses on diagnosing and managing pediatric ICU delirium, therapeutic plasma exchange for sepsis-induced multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and enhancing patient safety and quality improvement.

• B.S. in Bio-psychology & Cognitive Science - University of Michigan (2005)
• MD - Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine (2009)
• Residency in Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics - University of Michigan Health System (2013)
• Fellowship in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine - University of Michigan Health System (2016)
• Clinical Scholar in Patient Safety and Quality Leadership (PASQUAL) - University of Michigan Medical School (2016)

His research integrates Pediatric Critical Care with Delirium and Sepsis management. He pioneered Therapeutic Plasma Exchange applications and Noise Pollution reduction strategies in ICU environments. Recent publications highlight trends in Quality Improvement initiatives and Nonpharmacologic Delirium Management.

• Top Doctor - Minnesota Monthly (2022, 2023)
• Teacher of the Year - Mayo Clinic (2020)
• Best Poster Award - Mayo Clinic (2018)
• Employee Recognition Programs - Mayo Clinic, University of Michigan
• Active memberships include the Society of Critical Care Medicine and American Delirium Society

Dr. Kawai mentors pediatric residents and leads quality improvement committees, including the Pediatric ICU Liberation Collaborative and Delirium Bundle implementation. His work bridges clinical practice, education, and research to advance pediatric critical care standards.