Had a nice, fairly long visit today after a stressful day yesterday (this is the roller-coaster they warned us about). Ryan looks good - his sodium level is still too low, and he's retaining water, so he's gained too much weight. They're holding back some feeds to force him to get rid of some of the extra fluid. They need his sodium to go down so they can start treating the duct.
Nancy was on today, and she just knows her stuff. She could tell he was going to 'DSAT'. That means, de-saturate (oxygen level drops) - he had a bunch of hiccups, and we could see he was uncomfortable, and sure enough the alarms started going. She also told us Ryan turned his head. With his ventilator, this is impressive, but dangerous. Proof again that he is strong. He's not even 2 lbs and he can lift and turn his head. He threatened to do it a couple of times while we were there, but luckily he got a little lazy. Hopefully the night nurse stays close by tonight.
Oh - he had a blood transfusion last night. That scared me, but they've now convinced me that yes, this too is common and he'll probably have 3 or 4 more during his time in the NICU. They will use the same donor blood until it runs out, then Scott has been approved as a donor, so they'll use his if necessary. We also learned that a bag of blood lasts 42 days. No more, no less.
In other news, the infection seems to be clearing up but since the sodium is still low, there is still some cause for concern.
Heading down tomorrow for a 'family meeting' with the lead doctor and social worker (to figure out what kind of support we need... um, lots). This doctor has an interesting way of delivering information - she takes some getting used to. Good thing we have great nurses to translate what she says from scary, to manageable.
I'm currently sitting on the couch with Baxter's head on my lap and the computer propped up on a pillow - less than ideal for proper typing, but I'll take dog cuddles any time.
Cant imagine Kerri and Scott what you guys are dealing with...Just remember that we love you guys tons and think about you guys all the time..Loved the pictures...he is your little surfer dude..and absolutely gorgeous... Congrats on a beautiful little boy...xoxo
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that Ryan is at a hospital with such excellent care (for both him and you!!). He's a fighter alright - you can see that already!
ReplyDeletethank you for letting us into your life Kerri and for sharing Ryans pictures. I'm amazed at his tiny little hand on your finger. Wow! Take care of yourself! You need to stay healthy and strong for your little boy. My prayers for you and Ryan.
ReplyDeleteHi Kerri, My name is Diane and I am the PSW who visits with your grandmother, Bookie. I wanted to write to you and give you some hope. I had twins at 26 weeks gestation. I have been reading your blog and it is like a walk down memory lane. Derek and Shannon are now 17 years old and are preparing to go to University. Derek, while once at one pound twelve onces, now stands at six feet two inches. Both of them are wonderful, adjusted and smart. We never experienced any of the horrible and scary prognosis that the doctors must tell you when your child is born premature. By the time they were two years old they were just the same as any other child in the playground their age. You have a long and difficult road ahead of you, but I promise, it does get better. If you ever need to talk or ask any questions about your beautiful baby boy, do not hestitate to contact me. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Diane
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