9:10 AM
Gabriel had a good night.
His oxygen saturation fluctuated between 93 and 98, he didn’t have a fever, and he even pooped!
(We never thought we’d be so happy about poop)
Gift: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVQSbgG69Sc&pp=0gcJCdgAo7VqN5tD
During the night, they changed his position twice, moved the oximeter, and performed some respiratory physiotherapy sessions.
His uncle told us: “He’s more beautiful every day!”
And we totally agree!
It was also the last night with his uncle/godfather. Indeed, he’s returning to São Paulo today.
A huge thank you to him: he was present every single night without exception, even during the worst moments (especially during ECMO), and supported us with his valuable advice, thanks to his experience with hospitals.
It really helps to have support and to be able to count on another person during these difficult times.
This morning, I spent an hour with Gabriel.
He was wide awake, more responsive than yesterday, and his eye movements were less jerky.
The doctor came by and confirmed an improvement in his general condition.
Gabriel had another good big poop (yay!), and I was able to observe the bedsore on his lower back.
In reality, I didn’t see anything. Which is probably a good sign, as the nurses confirmed that it had improved a lot.
Depending on today’s blood test results, they might consider removing the dialysis.
(Great news too, one less thing to worry about if it happens!)
The liver still needs to be monitored: additional tests have been requested to better assess its condition.
A specialist doctor is expected to come during the day to look into this part. It’s reassuring to see that all of this seems to be well taken care of.
Upcoming organization:
We’re going back to two people to ensure the rounds, as the grandparents are unfortunately in quarantine due to the H1N1 flu caught by grandma.
We’re planning 12-hour shifts alternating with Manuela, while waiting for the arrival of two of her cousins this week to lend us a hand for a few days of the week.
The X-ray is available and seems good (even though I still can’t read X-rays, haha).
We’re now waiting for the blood test results + doctor’s opinion for the next steps.
21:10
The liver specialist doctor didn’t come today, but the blood results showed a slight improvement, or at least stabilization.
This is rather encouraging, even if the values remain very high (Gamma-GT still exceeds 700).
The invasive arterial pressure catheter, installed before the ECMO and directly connected to a femoral artery, was removed this afternoon. One less thing!
Dialysis has also been discontinued. However, they decided to leave the umbilical catheter in place, as a precaution.
There was no PCR test performed today.
The doctor didn’t say much more, except that Gabriel’s general condition continues to improve. And frankly, that’s more than enough for us!
This evening, I reported a small invasion… of ants, right next to Gabriel. Yes, ants! Unexpected, in an ICU.
Overall, it was a good day of improvement. And it feels good!
Good night everyone 🌙
