This is the second post of the day.
Pain management continues to be a considerable issue of concern. It is difficult to balance pain management and sedation. James has to be awake to take advantage of Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA), but James has been on sedation, because of his excruciating pain. The team is working on finding the right balance of medication.
Unfortunately, James is back on pressure control on the ventilator, because of increasing carbon dioxide levels. This is most likely in relation to the difficulties with high levels of sedation and analgesic medications. These agents can depress the respiratory system, and James has developed a very high tolerance. Ideally, James will be able to be awake with reasonable pain management.
We have to remember that within all the euphoria and excitement of James' progress, James will have complications. We must remain hopeful and optimistic, but it is also important to prepare ourselves for invariable difficulties. Recovery is a long process. We need to have realistic expectations. There is still reason to celebrate. We are moving forward.
These are indeed early days post transplant and you have both endured so much just to get to this point - yeah James; yeah Adena!
ReplyDeleteLife post-txn is all about balance - balancing sedation & pain meds to provide comfort vs. the need to keep James alert; balancing the dosages of immuno-suppressing meds to prevent rejection vs. minimizing unwanted side effects of the meds; balancing the high of just being transplanted and wanting to take on the world with the lows of just getting your legs back under you. If there are two people who can man the scale - it's you.
We are Happy Dancing for you, knowing that you are in the best place (medically - TGH; emotionally - with each other; mentally - total focus and tenacity together; spiritually - surrounded by love coming at you from coast to coast). We take these coming days one hour at a time for now - we will celebrate each milestone and we will hold you up when the road dips beneath you. Love, love, love
Sending you healing vibes north of Toronto! You can do it James!
ReplyDeleteGo James go! Thinking of you both!!!
ReplyDeletePraying with all my heart!
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ReplyDeleteI'm amazed, I must say. Rarely do I come across a blog that's equally educative and interesting. Thanks. Pain management San Diego CA
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