Procedures

Crew had a lot of procedures today.  Because of constant leaking and plugging, he had both chest tubes replaced with larger tubes.  His little lungs are fragile and keep collapsing (pneumothorax) in areas making it hard for him to ventilate properly.  The chest tubes help to relieve the air and fluid that have leaked into the pleural space, allowing his lungs to re-inflate. They also put him on a new ventilator called the Jet.   This ventilator is specifically designed for babies with chest tubes and reoccurring pneumothoraces. He seems to be more comfortable with this new vent, and is oxygenating well.

He also received a new arterial line . . . the old one wasn't working well.  And, a new IV line for blood products.  He tolerated all of these procedures and changes as well as can be expected.    His urine output is slowly increasing . . .  he has a lot of catching up to do.  And, his heart rate has been within normal limits for over 24 hours now . . . hurray!!

The doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists are going to try not to bug him tonight, so that he can get some rest.  Hopefully his daddy and mommy can get some rest too.

Thank you all for your prayers!!