Cathy has been on the ventilator for two weeks. The doctors are becoming concerned that she may start developing 'complications' from being ventilated for this amount of time. (They did not expand too much about what the complications are other than problems with the throat and larynx). Therefore, today they are going to extibate her. If Cathy does not tolerate breathing on her own, she will be reintibated with a smaller tube. If Cathy must be reintibated, tomorrow they will perform a tracheotomy.
During the night Cathy's anxiety medication was switched. This one appears to be working well. Her blood pressure is holding at good levels and her respiration rate is low (maybe a little to low occasionally).
The doctors asked for permission to give Cathy another unit of blood (she was given three her first day in the ICU). Her red cell count is low. Adding this blood will allow her body to carry more oxygen and possibly give her a little more strength.
The doctors have laid out this plan, however, as always, they will not commit to a time. The unit of blood has not been started yet. Therefore I assume the process will not begin for a while yet. The respiratory therapist is preparing his 'stuff'. If extibation is successful, Cathy will be on a pressurized mask that will provide both oxygen and a cool water mist. The water mist is used to keep her throat moist and reduce swelling. For now all we can do is wait. and pray.
David
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