Hi all,
As many of you know, Dad had the ventrix clamped last night at midnight to see if his brain would drain his spinal fluid properly. He went down for a CAT-scan at 6am; the results weren't quite ready when we arrived at 7:30. Around 8, Carol (one of his many awesome nurses) popped in to let us know that the ventricles had swelled and the pressure in his brain was building. This was a bit of a downer for everyone. We were hoping that everything would go smoothly if only to prevent Dad from having to be re-intubated for shunt surgery. Though we haven't spoken to Dr. Alverez yet, the nurses, PA, and ICU staff all informed us on various occasions today that Dad will very likely have a shunt or shunts put in this week.
Though he was a little sleepier than he was yesterday, he was still happy and upbeat. Carol, Marie (his night nurse), and Dad all sang "You are my Sunshine" for us this morning. It was really sweet. We wanted Dad to rest so we didn't stay too long this morning.
Later in the afternoon we came back for a couple hours. Dad was much more alert and was somewhat responsive to the commands we've been giving him (lift your arm, thumbs up, squeeze hands, wiggle toes). His right side was a bit more sluggish today. We've noticed that he seems to have one up day and then one sleepy day. After yesterday, we should have expected him to need some additional rest. I think we were all a little disappointed with the CAT-scan results so we ended up wearing him out plenty this afternoon! All in all, he was pretty much the same. We are looking forward to catching Dr. Alvarez tomorrow to determine if and when the shunt will be put in. As I mentioned yesterday, either way, the ventrix should be coming out in the next few days.
On a more positive note, Dad's breathing has been great! He's kept up his oxygen level all day without too much help and is sleeping soundly with the Bi-pap mask. This is a welcome relief!
Thank you for your love and kindness!
As many of you know, Dad had the ventrix clamped last night at midnight to see if his brain would drain his spinal fluid properly. He went down for a CAT-scan at 6am; the results weren't quite ready when we arrived at 7:30. Around 8, Carol (one of his many awesome nurses) popped in to let us know that the ventricles had swelled and the pressure in his brain was building. This was a bit of a downer for everyone. We were hoping that everything would go smoothly if only to prevent Dad from having to be re-intubated for shunt surgery. Though we haven't spoken to Dr. Alverez yet, the nurses, PA, and ICU staff all informed us on various occasions today that Dad will very likely have a shunt or shunts put in this week.
Though he was a little sleepier than he was yesterday, he was still happy and upbeat. Carol, Marie (his night nurse), and Dad all sang "You are my Sunshine" for us this morning. It was really sweet. We wanted Dad to rest so we didn't stay too long this morning.
Later in the afternoon we came back for a couple hours. Dad was much more alert and was somewhat responsive to the commands we've been giving him (lift your arm, thumbs up, squeeze hands, wiggle toes). His right side was a bit more sluggish today. We've noticed that he seems to have one up day and then one sleepy day. After yesterday, we should have expected him to need some additional rest. I think we were all a little disappointed with the CAT-scan results so we ended up wearing him out plenty this afternoon! All in all, he was pretty much the same. We are looking forward to catching Dr. Alvarez tomorrow to determine if and when the shunt will be put in. As I mentioned yesterday, either way, the ventrix should be coming out in the next few days.
On a more positive note, Dad's breathing has been great! He's kept up his oxygen level all day without too much help and is sleeping soundly with the Bi-pap mask. This is a welcome relief!
Thank you for your love and kindness!
Your doing great Kate! The updates are wonderful, not always the best of news but informative and some relief to know you are with your Dad. How is your Mom doing, please let her know I was asking for her, if she is up for a phone call my number is in your Dad's phone. I am sending my love & prayers to you all...and of course a big kiss & hug for Brad!
ReplyDeleteCherry
A very Happy Birthday to Brad. Please tell him I have him in my thoughts and prayers. Brad is a tough YANKEE, and he will pull through this event. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong for him. Thanks Sue Rauch, Bayonet Point, Florida
ReplyDelete