This morning I watched as Cathy's blood pressure 'numbers' shot up to 231 over 98. A short while later these numbers were 68 over 47. During both occasions the doctors and nurses 'moved briskly'...... More fluids, less fluids; more pressure, less pressure; increase medication A, decrease medication A..... I sense that the care that the doctors and nurses are giving Cathy is like driving a car using only the shoulders of the road as a guide.. you don't know where you are until you run off the shoulder.
During the past several days, one of the goals for the treatment Cathy is receiving was to remove fluids from her system. Well, it appears that they have removed fluids to the point where Cathy can no longer maintain her blood pressure. They are now pumping fluids back in. Another treatment Cathy has been receiving the past several days are insulin treatments to control the blood sugar increases caused by the steroids she receives. This morning I was a little 'surprised' to see the nurse giving Cathy IV sugars - they had reduced her blood sugars to much......... quick, hard left... no, no I mean hard right...
I have met the new captain of the ship. The attending physician that took over Cathy's care this morning wants to try another ventilator weening trial this afternoon. However, this time they are not going to completely take away all the assistance the ventilator provides. (Sounds to me like the captain wants to make only a slight course correction, I like that). She also stated that "the swelling of the throat is not a contraindication for extibation". (Interpretation: The swelling of the throat is no reason to not remove the ventilator tube from Cathy's throat). Consistent with the previous attending physician, she stated that they will attempt to ween Cathy from the ventilator daily. One day (maybe tomorrow, maybe next week) Cathy will be OK and the tube will come out.
Well, time to go check on Cathy. Keep the good thoughts and prayers coming.
David
1 comment:
David, I can only imagine the thoughts and feelings you had as you learned of Cathy's experience this morning. It is so hard to be so far away...unable to provide physical help and first-hand comfort. I'm ready to come act as "night shift" if you need...just say the word.
C.J., you must be so tired and I imagine that the experiences with the ventilator removals have been scary! Hang in there kiddo. Don't forget that the Great Physician is holding you in the palm of His hand and, though the road is bumpy, it is heading in the right direction and there is a light at the end of the tunnel! I love you!!! XOXOXOXOX BonBon
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