Best Day Yet

Eric has had an awesome day. All his vital signs have been superbly stable. His SpO2 has been 100% all day. (Vent settings; SIMV 13, pressure-limited at 16, PSV 10, PEEP 5, FiO2 .45) That left lower lobe pneumothorax that developed last evening has completely resolved. He had PT twice today, and sat on the edge of the bed for 5+ minutes! He's been awake, alert, all day, nearing the end of the sedation weaning protocol and no signs of withdrawl. He sent his friend Noelle in Hawaii an email, typed it all by himself. He's been writing us notes on his dry erase board all day, and he can't wait til Tuesday to get his tracheostomy. Somewhat worrisome is that they weighed Eric today. He weighs a mere 94 pounds. He was 130-135 prior to getting sick. But he's getting nutrition through both TPN and NG tube feedings now.

Eric's evening episodes the past two nights seem to be related to the fact that his left chest tube seems to be positional. As long as it stays in good position, Eric feels great. Otherwise . . . not so good.

Bob and I are attempting to take better care of ourselves. I took a walk today. Bob took a nap at the Ronald McDonald House. We have a room there tonight, so we should be able to take turns getting some good sleep.