Thoracentesis Thursday

I think I have the right name - Thoracentesis... They removed the fluid from around Dorothea's right lung. You or I would have approximately 50ml of fluid in this location... they removed over 1000ml from her...right side only. We have not been told yet if they are going to do the left side. She said that it was painful, but she agreed that the benefits definitely outway the pain.

Around 1pm today they took her off of the ventilator and attached a T-tube to her trachea. This provides her with oxygen and allows her to breathe on her on. Yeah!!! They were planning on keeping her on the T-tube for 8-9 hours and then put her back on the vent overnight. Sounded like a good plan to us. She was breathing fine, keeping her oxygen saturation number high all day. However, she still complained that she felt like she couldn't breathe. We are guessing that she is feeling that way from the pressure from the fluid around her lungs. She and I also discussed that it might be a little bit of anxiety also. Totally natural.

PT came in today twice. The first time they came in and went through 15 reps of their leg exercises, and then repeated them all. They came in later in the day to work her arms. She doesn't particularly care for this...but she knows it is important. They did not sit her up a second time since she sat dangled her feet during the Thoracentesis procedure for about 15 minutes.

Typically I come during the day and John and Bob coming during the evening. I wasn't able to come until after 6 tonight but it worked out well since the boys were not able to come tonight. She definitely likes having company. When I was leaving she asked if I would ask someone to come in...so I asked her what she needed from the staff...she said - nothing - I just want somebody to come in and say hi. So sweet...

As I was leaving she told me that she wants the night to go by fast. I think she really misses Dad a whole lot and is anxious for him to return each morning. That is so reassuring to her. I am leaving town again so I am turning over the reigns to Dad for a little while. It is really hard to go - but mom was very sweet and encouraging me to go and have a great time. I really needed to hear that.