Wow…Ella is still rockin’ the casbah =). We were able to enjoy a couple hours of her being awake tonight. Tina and nurse Michelle gave her a little bath, and Ella did so well with the whole experience.
Her stats stayed strong throughout the day. The last blood gas at 10pm was solid (cO2=43, pO2=154). If her next blood gas is this good in the morning, she’ll probably be weened down on the ventilator again. Slow and steady baby girl, slow and steady.
Some of you were curious about her weight. Ella has gained 1lb 1oz since her birth! She is now 6lbs 7oz. Still need to fatten her up though.
The swelling in her head has definitely gone down along with the rest of her body. If she keeps on this track the next few days, they’ll consider removing her chest tubes. The SVC procedure has also been delayed. It will be re-evaluated next week to determine if it’s necessary. I’m betting they don’t do it though because the octreotide is working real well.
The dopamine and albumen have been removed from her regiment of meds. She still has quite a few other meds going in, but at least we’re moving in the right direction.
Nurse Michelle also told us that our other favorite nurses will be taking care of Ella the next couple days. It’s so nice to have the “Fab Four” taking care of our little girl. It really gives us both peace of mind. There is genuine compassion and love that comes from these ladies. Michelle, Angie, Andrea, and Janet really make a difference to us and Ella. They are such wonderful nurses and we thank God for them!
The continued prayers are greatly appreciated. So much grace and peace is delivered through them. God bless you all.
Numbers 6:24-26 (NKJV)
24 “The LORD bless you and keep you;
25 The LORD make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
26 The LORD lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace.”’