 Gus got a new lid (stocking cap) today during his isolette change. Hand knit and a really cool pattern. |
 Both Jill and I got to hold Gus today. I know it wasn't very long for each of us, but it sure does seem like a long time when you have this amazing person in your arms... |
 Gus was sticking out his tongue and making funny faces - not uncomfortable but maybe something else was going on. I didn't check... |
When we first arrived today a new doctor we had never seen came up to us and announced in a rather alarmed tone that they wanted to put Gus on steroids and caffeine to get him off the ventilator. We were pretty shocked by the way he presented this news, not even introducing himself or giving an assessment of Gus before launching into this scary prescription. I told him we would have to think about it and do some research.
We asked our nurse, Susie, if this was a normal process and she assured us it was pretty regular. I was still uncomfortable and called the NICU when we got home and talked to a different doctor. She first explained Gus' health - he is doing very well: maxed out on his mother's milk feedings, stomach processing well, staying off the bilirubin lights, good blood counts, not needing other medications or supplemental nutrition, etc. Because he is so strong in so many ways, not because he is in imminent danger, they feel that this is a good time to start healing his lungs with the steroid and is a great step forward. The caffeine is used to prevent apnea - the part of the brain that controls regular breathing is underdeveloped before 32 weeks so this is a VERY normal part of preemie life when transitioning from the ventilator to self-sustained breathing. Overall, this is not alarming news as explained by this second doctor, rather it is good news for Gus' progress.
Note to the other doctor this afternoon - please take some sensitivity classes on bedside manner! We are grateful you know the science behind caring for premature babies, but you are caring for humans so please try not treating us like machines.
Please continue to pray with us as Gus takes these treatments and works to get off the ventilator. This is an important time for his progress and we are sure of God's caring Spirit for Gus and all the babies in the NICU.
Peace,
Gregg, Jill and Gus
2 comments:
I can understand your feelings about the Dr.!! Doctors do need to take sensitivity training before they even come in contact with patients and their families. I have had some problems with them myself. They have to be taught that they are treating PEOPLE and they should not treat them like they are unfeeling and stupid. I pray that God shows you wisdom and knowledge regarding the care of little Gus.
Praying for Gus here in Wisconsin!
Victoriaats
Man, I had a doctor while there that still leaves a bad taste in my mouth - not in the NICU though, just in the maternity ward. Anyway, great news about coming off the vent soon! I'll pray it works the way it should! He's such a trooper and so, so beautiful!
K-
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