Today when I got to the hospital at 9:00 they had already gotten Doug up and put him in his chair and fed him, what little breakfast he would eat. He was back in his bed with fresh sheets. They were prompt when Doug's IV ran out to change it, without me having to call them. They actively checked on Doug's personal needs. It was amazing. The doctor came to see me. He was very nice and very thoughtful. It was a different day. Obviously my complaints worked because there was a huge difference in his nursing care today. I am so grateful.
They decided to put a PIC line in so that they can deliver nutrients to Doug. Doug is eating a little however the doctor is still concerned that he is not eating enough. He is seriously low on nutrients since he went 6 days without really eating. He is very weak and sleeping most of the day. Hopefully, with the medication, lower temperature and some nutrients he will begin to perk up some more.
We had a bit of a scare, when trying to the PIC line in they thought they felt a blood clot. They then needed to do an ultrasound. I got the radiology report a little while ago and good news, no clots.
I talked to the hospital transition person again today. I told her the concerns we had of going to a skilled nursing facility. I also called a Home Health company. I learned that Home Health will only come in 2 to 3 times a week for a couple hours each time. The transition person then said there might be another facility that Doug might qualify for that is for people who need a little longer term care. It is a hospital with skilled staff. There are 2 facilities in Boise. One is Southwest Idaho Advanced Care Hospital and the other is Vibra. I thought I would check these two hospitals out tomorrow. I am concerned about bringing Doug home as weak as he is with so little services available. If the hospitals don't work out I am thinking about hiring someone to come and help us. Thank you everyone, who provided me feedback and ideas about resources for getting services for Doug and of the consideration you helped me to think through.
Doug is more alert tonight. He is watching a little TV and talking a little bit. Baby steps but we are moving in the right direction. His doctor says that he will be here in the hospital through the end of the week and maybe through the weekend.
As for me, I went to the orthopedic doctor, Myers Johnson today. He occassionally went to Grace while we were there. It was nice to see him. He ordered an MRI for my knee. We are now waiting for the insurance approval. I do feel like it is doing better. The brace has helped a lot. So we shall see.
It is time to pray.
God of all Faithfulness, bolster our faith in the midst of challenges. Sustain our vision of all that is possible. Remind us of your healing power, when we become fearful or discouraged. And dear Lord help us to remember the joy we felt at the time of transplant, strengthen our hope and vision to return to wellness and new life. Amen
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