The first 3 days, preemies are at high risk for brain bleeds - and so far we are hopeful that that has not happened. He has an ultrasound scheduled for Thursday to check for any bleeding that could have happened in his 1st 72 hours.
Here is what we know
-- Jackson opened his eyes for the first time today! He will still have to have the protective cover on for a while - but we were able to see his little eyes!
--He is still on the high frequency ventilator. His pH level dropped a little and bumping the ventilator settings will hopefully help raise his pH level back in range. Needless to say we cannot hold him until he gets off the high frequency ventilator. We have not been told how long to expect him on this vent but the doctors said they want him to get off of it as soon as possible since breathing on his own would help strengthen his lungs more.
--All day today they have been lowering his blood pressure meds - and have taken him off of this completely tonight - YAY!
--He is still under a bilirubin light - but his numbers are improving.
--They gave him morphine once to help him calm down yesterday morning but have not needed to since. The nurses said that he doesn't get very fussy when they (or we) move him around and change his diaper or take his temperature. Since the ventilator works best when he is not fighting it, we are happy that he isn't very fussy and all tensed up very often.
--Today the nurses were able to place him on his stomach. They said as long as he "liked" being on his stomach, this would be a great way to help his lungs oxyginate. He really seemed to like being on his stomach so he has been able to stay like that for a few hours!
--He is still on antibiotics for an infection but they are waiting until tomorrow to check his levels so that the antibiotics get some time to work.
--His blood sugars are higher than they want - they are trying to balance the fluids to correct electrolyte levels and get his numbers in line.
We'll leave you with a few pictures from today!
Tummy time!
Annie and Jackson!
My name is Lorri Grubb & I teach at Pella High with Jessica. She shared your story with me last week and I want to let you know my prayers are with you two & Jackson. My grandson, William (Will) was born at Mercy on Oct. 23. He weighed 1.1 lbs @ about 22 weeks gestation. When my husband & I stopped at Mercy to pick up Will's big brother on the 22nd to take home with us, we heard his little heart beat on the heart monitor. We had no idea at the time how precious that sound would be...he only lived 8 minutes. Mercy is a wonderful hospital and you and Jackson are in the most capable hands - and God's hands, too! You will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers as you count the days until you can bring your little boy home! God bless you, Lorri Grubb
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