Robin is doing quite well and has a renewed positive attitude. She is feeling so good that she rescinded the DNR that she had wanted at the time of the surgery. She is writing on the white board w/o any problems. Most of her requests are to scratch an itch on her head. She has told me things to do regarding the children. When I told her Katelyn was going to Steak-n-Shake after her competition she asked if I gave her money.
The last time she had surgery it took a long time (a month) to rid herself of the fluid that had accumulated in her tissue (edema). In the last 2-3 days she has lost most of the fluid she has gained. This is wonderful progress.
The edema is painful and causes lots of complications. They have to be careful giving her diuretics because of its effects on the kidneys. It also causes problems with BP and heart rate. But Robin has had none of the problems. Her vital signs have held and her kidneys are functioning well. She can bend and move her legs and she is just more comfortable. (We did some PT on her legs today). Also because the edema is gone they can take the central line out of her neck and use her leg instead (if they don't do a PICC in her arm). The fluid tended to leak out of wherever it could - like her surgical scar. So now that can heal better. Also because she has less fluid in her the platelet count is better although the # may be the same. It's a higher %. So a count of 24 today is a lot better than a count of 24 a week ago. In fact, I think they are skipping a platelet infusion. Not having the edema makes it easier to sit up which is better for respiration. Also she needs to be sitting up to be fed.
Everything today was positive. When they changed the dressing on her surgical scar it was dry. The biliary bag was changed and was draining properly. Kidneys are fine and she doesn't have any new infections. She is healing and getting stronger.
Unfortunately, they don't wean off the respirator on the weekends in case of problems so we'll have to wait until Monday. But I'm pretty sure she is close to not needing it.
Thank you again to everybody for the help and prayers.
3 comments:
What a difference a day makes. We had some real quality time with Robin today and she remained awake for almost five hours. Her spirits and everyone else's were high and I truly believe she is feeding off all of our positive energy.
Great news, it is so nice to read positive feedback, I can feel your enthusiasm and I love it. Please tell Robin how much I miss her and love her, she is the best. We are still planning our trip this summer and I will personally deliver the margueritas.
Love,
LiseAnne
Post a Comment