Feb 19, 2009

First Meal




Davis had his first meal yesterday! He ate around 10 cc from a bottle and then went into a milk coma. We don't think he has an oral aversion, as some kids who have been intubated do, yet he still isn't quite sure what to do with a bottle. He gets a little confused and starts just sort of chewing on it after a while. He is now on a schedule to eat every 3 hours, and this morning they doubled the volume to 14 cc's each feed. We're still on pins and needles waiting to see how his intestines tolerate feeding. He hasn't pooped yet, but it could be that his intestines are just moving slowly because of surgery and morphine. 

Speaking of morphine, he's down to 30 mcg, and coming down by 10% every day. The phenobarb, a medication he started Tuesday, seems to be helping most of his withdrawal symptoms, yet he still has some... tremors, nasal flaring, fussiness, etc... 

If Davis makes great progress on feeds, we could possibly avoid another surgery to have a Broviac line inserted. He could have all his medications switched to be administered orally. Honestly, it's not likely that he'll make that much progress quickly enough. Our other option is to try again for a PIC line- maybe the 7th time is the charm?- so, as much as I hate to stick him again, they'll make another attempt on that today. He's on the surgery schedule for tomorrow in case the Broviac is needed. 

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Awww, look at sweet Davis eating! I'm so proud! I am praying. I will continue to pray. I hope things go smoothly if he has to have surgery again. I have no doubt that your little man is capable of anything! I love you all so much.
*Noelle

The Vierig's said...

congrats you guys! Just stick with it and keep being positive. He is such a cute little guy and I can see the love in your eyes while you hold him!

Lana said...

I am so happy for you at being able to hold your precious boy and that he is doing so well. I know that Aunt Catherine can't wait to get back up there and be with you all and Davis is trying hard to be where she can give him her real hugs and kisses! By the way thank you for writing all you do!!!

Anonymous said...

The "First Meal" was great news! We hope the intestines will react properly and that a surgery will not be necessary. His great grandpa likes to eat so I'm sure he's got the genes for it! We are excited about each new improvement and are praying they will continue. Let us know if we can help in any way. Love all three of you! Great Grandma and Grandpa