Sunday, April 26, 2009

Pressure, not Oxygen

Andrea is back on CPAP, as we mentioned yesterday. Last week, there was some discussion between the nurses about whether Andrea needed the CPAP for oxygen or pressure. When she was moved to nasal cannula, that provided oxygen without pressure, sometimes as high as 45%. Now, she's back on CPAP, with a pressure of +7, but oxygen of only about 23%. Room air is 21% oxygen, so it's obvious that she needed the pressure, not necessarily the oxygen. We spoke to the respiratory therapist today, who was pleased with how Andrea tolerated the transition back to CPAP. When I see the doctor again, I'll ask when they might try nasal cannula again.

Andrea gained another 10 grams, weighing 1180 grams (2 pounds, 9.6 ounces). At 1250 grams, she can start wearing an undershirt. Every little step like that brings us closer to her homecoming. She's still getting her 22 ml of fortified milk and MCT oil. She'll be measured tonight, so by tomorrow we'll know if she added any length to her body. This week, she'll have another eye exam on Wednesday, and a thyroid follow up on Friday.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

"I may not be there yet, but I'm closer than I was yesterday."

Author Unknown

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