Downs and Ups
If yesterday was less encouraging, today was more so. They were able to start administering steroids to fight the liver inflammation, so peripheral infections seem under control. Also, her kidney function improved, and, most importantly, ventilator numbers look better.
The vent's positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) was reduced today from 10 to 8. This is essentially the residual pressure left in the lungs, and it holds open the air sacs in the lungs between breaths. If Suzy's blood oxygen levels hold up with this reduction, they can begin to think about weaning her from the vent, which would (in my mind) constitute tangible progress as opposed to the small steps we have been taking. Tomorrow they plan to aspirate some accumulated fluid from the abdomen.
The care she is receiving is top-notch. We are indeed lucky to live in close proximity to such a first rate medical facility as Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
Update, 9:30 PM: Suzy's O2 levels held, and her PEEP remains at 8. Yay!
The vent's positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) was reduced today from 10 to 8. This is essentially the residual pressure left in the lungs, and it holds open the air sacs in the lungs between breaths. If Suzy's blood oxygen levels hold up with this reduction, they can begin to think about weaning her from the vent, which would (in my mind) constitute tangible progress as opposed to the small steps we have been taking. Tomorrow they plan to aspirate some accumulated fluid from the abdomen.
The care she is receiving is top-notch. We are indeed lucky to live in close proximity to such a first rate medical facility as Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
Update, 9:30 PM: Suzy's O2 levels held, and her PEEP remains at 8. Yay!
posted by Kurt | 6:20 PM
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