Things have progressed more rapidly for Nicholas in the last couple of days. They have stopped one medication (the diuretic used to make sure he didn't have too much fluid on board with extubation and the other breathing problems he was having), increased the calories of his breast milk to 25 calories, increased the amount he gets to 13 cc's every 2 hours, weaned his CPAP to 3 from 5 (good) and gained 80 grams in one day. That's a lot for a guy who weights in at just over 2.2 pounds. As a result, Nicholas's body is working hard to accommodate all the changes, so, we are not going to hold him today. We look forward to that time with him but want to make sure he's doing ok and is up for it. It's amazing to think of the amount of calories he burns to do the simple things in life. We want to spare him the calories today in exchange for more growth.
There is a Ronald McDonald room here for parents of patients. It's a place to get away for awhile and they provide snacks, phones, computers, dinner on the first Tuesday of the month and other things parents might need. Seeing the hospital from the inside out versus coming in for a day or two for work and leaving has really changed our perspective. Even though we'd like to think we're good at what we do, we think we'll be even better as a result of our experience with Nicholas. We'll try to capture a good picture of our growing guy in the next couple of days to share.
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One doesn't realize all the energy it requires for such a small guy. But, still good to hear that he is taking some more milk and nutrients.
ReplyDeleteAnd, lower pressure on CPAP is another good step.
Amazing little dude and we look forward to when he is a big dude and can be held and cuddled. Knowing how hospitals can be intimidating, it's good that they are working with parents, etc. to improve things for families. We also know the two of you would make the staffs' job easier with your knowledge and help. One month has flown by even though it probably didn't seem like it to both of you. Hopefully the next month will go by even quicker from the growing and less dependency on hospital equipment. Nicholas, you deserve an extra hug at the next kangaroo session.
Love,
Judy/Dave
Nicholas, I can not believe that you are one month old today, the time has gone so very FAST ...Grandma and PaPa
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