Today the nurse said for a patient in the ICU, a few days of stable vitals means the patient is moving from a holding pattern to a healing pattern. She used the word 'normal' instead of 'stable' to describe his vitals. 'Normal' sounds so wonderful, so normal!
The respiratory therapist turned down the ventilator for a few hours this morning, and then again for a few hours this afternoon and both times, he tolerated the exercise without any trouble.
He's back on a 'drip' of medication to help him stay comfortable, whether it's Versed or Fetynal I'm not sure, but the amount is so minimal it should not interfere with his neurological state, or ability to 'wake up' - which leads me to the really good news. This afternoon my mom asked him to look at her, he had his eyes open already and he did - he moved his eyes to look at her. It's a small step, I realize but this is the first sign we've had in over a week. Still not wiggling his toes or squeezing my mom's hand, but thank goodness - we're moving in the right direction.
This experience is another opportunity for me to practice patience, a skill set that will likely come in handy in parenthood. Looking forward to posting another positive update in the morning.
A small step forward and quite a lift for Joanne. I loved the cheery note from her yesterday and I can just see her and Susan trudging through the snow, shivering, but looking like fashionistas in thir new cold weather gear. Looking for ward to a trip to Stienmart one day soon. All the gals in the bridge group send their wishes for a healthy outcome. Marge
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