This was our hardest day so far. Again, a very emotional day and possibly the hardest day of my life so far...
Shaylie originally had an umbilical line for IV, but they wanted to change it to a PICC line (peripherally inserted central cathetar) because the risk of infection is much less. They tried to insert the PICC line through her left leg, but couldn't get the placement right so they had to take it out afterall and continue to use her umbilical line. The procedure is a surgical procedure and somewhat painful. My heart broke everytime I'd hear her cry. I would have done anything to switch places with her!
Tycen developed a small air pocket in his lungs (pneumothorax), which they removed by sticking a needle in his chest. It then re-accumulated and they decided it'd be best to insert a chest tube which would continuously bring air out of his chest. This, too, is a painful procedure. He was given morphine, which he reacted badly to and needed to be resuscitated(not uncommon for premies, but still very scary).
Both babies bilirubin levels were high (which causes jaundice), so they were put under phototherapy light. They have to wear "sunglasses" to protect their eyes when under the light, so now their faces are completely covered except for their bottom lips and chin.
We didn't get much hands-on time today because it was such a stressful day for the babies. They try to limit the amount of time the babies are stimulated because they should be sleeping at least 23 hours per day to allow their brain and nervous system to continue developing.
Scott went home for a couple of hours for the first time today. The dogs were so happy to see him again!!
17 years ago
