Tuesday 11/4/2014

One more machine gone!  Ava was successfully weened off the nitric today.  Her blood gas numbers were spot on after they took her off so they carted the machine away.  It feels so good to see the machines and pipelines leading to her dwindling!  

She continues to have problems with eating/puking.  They don't think this has anything to do with her system- because all systems are at full production, if you know what I mean!  Liezel and the docs believe that Ava gagging on the vent that is in her throat.  Because she is a bit fistey - a mover an a shaker - the tube hits her gag reflex.  They are a bit worried she is going to try and pull the vent out so they have started putting mittens on her.  The girl know what she wants! 

Tomorrow they are doing an MRI at 1:00ish.  The MRI is done to check for any brain bleeds or abnormality due to low oxygen levels. Doc Taylor said she appears to be a normal infant with lungs that need to clear but they do this as a matter of protocol before the vent comes out since it is easier to sedate and monitor her this way. 

Doc also said this will not tell us anything of certainty about her long range outcome.  Unfortunately it is hard to see what has been damaged in her brain because babies don't talk, walk, eat, etc like adults.  Although they did say that babies brains are much more plastic and her little brain could learn to work around any trouble spots - should there be any.  It seems like this will be a good baseline to get should she have any issues in the future.  In the event they see anything concerning we would then meet with Neurology Team- but for now we are saying that's not going to happen! 

We were home for the last two days for Big Mimi's wake and funeral- beautiful services.  My Mom took up post with Ava and we had our two favorite Nurses looking over our girl as well.  

Liezel....

Jill...

And #1 Daddy and Husband :)