2 Chest Tubes, ICU...Day 15

We got another surprise yesterday in ICU. Got there wanting a report on the callopsed lung and expected to hear update regarded the possible removal of the respirator. Instead we got news they wanted to insert a second chest tube for the other side of the lung. Apparently, even though puncturing her lung was a mistake and not what anyone wants the upside is that things were draining well. They felt draining the other side with chest tube rather than another needle extraction was needed to remove as much fluid as possible to increase her ability to breath when respirator was removed and to improve her vitals. So, another painful day for Mom. They pulled off quite a bit of fluid during the procedure and even more after by way of the tube. The got her situated, medicated again after the procedure and I think thats the most restfull I've seen her in this long 2 weeks. We all left, as visiting hours were over. Hubby and I headed back when visiting began again at 9 pm to tuck her in. I like to stay until I know she's sleeping and as comfortable as possible. Last night is the first time she was asleep when we got there and remained so. We checked on her 3 times before heading back home.

With any luck at all the next post will be that she's improving, and things are looking up. I thank you again for your support and prayers.

Knitted 2 pair of booties yesterday during our waiting time. Will toss some more yarn in my bag today as I prepare to head back to the hospital.

**Favor to ask
I posted a mini new post on my travel blog (it's nice to post something unrelated to the hospital, something I already have pictures edited for etc.), please stop in look around, post a comment or two. I'd really like to improve traffic on that page. Thanks!

Another backward step in the ICU......

Yesterday , last night specifically marked 2 full wks Mom's been in the hospital-The ICU-, fluid levels seemed to be improving, vitals were leveling out some and we were feeling some encouragement. They discussed removing the ventilator/respirator but her throat was too swollen to do so. They added IV steriods to her long list of meds to help with that problem. Yesterday, that problem seemed resolved and they told us they might remove it today (Thursday). They decided she still needed to have more fluids off her lungs to help with the breathing and her vitals and did a double lung tap yesterday (one to each side), however shortly after doing so x-ray indicated the lung may have been punctured in the process. A scan was needed to ascertain that they did in fact punture the lung. Now, in addition to everything else she has a punctured lung and a chest tube was inserted. Another drain, another wound, something else to add to her pain and discomfort. We understand chest tubes do heal pretty well, but are quite painful.

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. I truly appreciate it.

I left work early, as soon as I got the call and headed over. I've told them I won't be at work today, and am unsure what tomorrow will bring.

A Good Day in The ICU

Things are looking brighter for us in The ICU. My brothers, Dad and I had a consultation today with The ICU Doctor, got lots of our questions answered and received a pretty decent report. Test results have come back and things are looking better than they have for the last 5 days. She's still in ICU, she still has the respirator on; but....toes and fingers crossed we think we're seeing some improvement and we're told they definately do.

Thanks to all for the good wishes, prayers and the positive vibs......all are truly appreciated.

Just a mini update here. I am planning to go to work tomorrow for the first time since this all began. I'll have cell on naturally and go to the hospital after work; but ...it will be good to get back to some normal activity.

Day 11 in the ICU

Hoping to get a few things done here on the computer before we head back to the hospital for day 11 or 12 (think I might have lost track of which day it is). Yesterday was a more peaceful day. They elected not to drain the other side of the lung due to the possible complications of it. They may still; but are holding off. Likewise they did not yet do the eletrocard, they did do another chest x-ray. We know she has fluid still around the lungs and some around the heart. She appeared to be a little better yesterday with regard to vital signs; but no real results yet of all the cultures done on the fluid removed from the lung the previous day.

The ICU is such a sad place, so many critical patients and sad families. We've gotten to be an odd group there. We don't really know each others names, but we all ask each other each day how the loved ones are doing. Some are doing better, some not, it seems such an up and down yoyo for so many of us. Many of us stood a good part of the day, as the waiting room was so very crowded with families comforting each other. Some folks chat, some play cards, some read, some watch TV, I knit and or crochet as we share the day. We take turns visiting when it's permitted.

Thank you all for your continued support and prayers. I do hope to come visiting.

Sandy

I would love the diversion of you all visiting and commenting on my travel blog, it helps to take my mind to other place.