This afternoon, Dad was freed from a number of other attending tubes and devices. The biggest deal is the chest drain. The drain was a rubber hose the diameter of my pinky that has been in his chest since the surgery. This afternoon it was removed. While it was a painful process, it’s an important step toward healing and recovery.
Also, he no longer needs constant connection to IV drips. This means he can go for a walk around the floor without dragging an IV tower with him. The IV connections (two of them) are still in, as standard practice in the ICU, in case they need to administer drugs or fluids quickly, but they aren’t currently in use. The only major connections he has left are the pacemaker wires and a telemetry connection to electrodes on his chest. Both of these are related to monitoring and/or controlling the heart’s current condition.
They turned the pacemaker down, so it will only kick in if his heart rate drops below 54 beats per minute. This speed decrease means his normal rhythm can take charge and control his heart. Unfortunately, the “bundle of his”, which carries the signal from the sinoatrial node to the ventricles, isn’t carrying the signal to beat. The ventricles have developed their own rhythm, but this means that the atrium and ventricles are not beating cooperatively as they should. The electrocardiology folks suggest letting his natural rhythm run overnight, to see if they sync up. If they don’t, a pacemaker will be installed to keep the two in sync.
Assuming all goes according to plan, and Dad still needs a pacemaker by tomorrow afternoon, they will install it then. He’ll need a couple more days in the ICU to recover, and then he should be ready to go to the general hospital floor. When that milestone is reached, he’ll just be a few more days away from going home. Here’s hoping that comes soon. :-)
Michael, so good to see the pictures and your smile.You are a good sport. Love, Terese
Good morning dear Mike, I love the pictures. Wonderful detailed reporting, Benson. Mara Oakes and John Burkhardt send their regards. Carole, is there anything you want done at home with regard to your possible extended stay? Take care. Bobbie B
Mike, you look great, and it’s great to see your smile! Just goes to show you that you can’t keep a good man down! Keep up the good work and wishes for a speedy recovery! L.
OMG !! what did they do to his hair!!! or have I never seen him with out a hat. Try some Aretha Franklin or Little Richard to get the rythm right
I predict two more days and he’ll be crewing at Shilshole on a big boat. Don’t forget the hat. Hike hard, ‘ole buddy-Mike
Mike: All of us at ONP are happy to hear of your progress! I know we are all rooting for your speedy recovery. Take care.