Today was a hard day. After these past couple of days of the nurses trying to start IVs, etc., Kaela kind of just crashed this afternoon. Because she didn't have enough hemoglobin in her blood, her heart rate started to soar, going as high as 200bpm (her normal rate is about 140 or so). Her heart was pumping more blood because it didn't have enough red blood cells to carry enough oxygen at a slower rate.
Plus, it took 3 RNs over an hour to start another IV, which ended up going in her little head. It was the only place they could start one. Needless to say, this really stressed us out and made us feel overwhelmed. I know everyone at the hospital is doing their best, and I would never want to start an IV on anyone, especially a baby as small as Kaela.
The doctor talked to us at about 1:00PM today, and said that Kaela needed a blood transfusion immediately in order to stabilize her. It was frustrating, because my(Andy's) blood would be ready for her tomorrow, but they couldn't wait so of course we gave approval to give Kaela what she needed. They started the transfusion at about 3:30PM and it was complete by 6:30PM.
When we went back to the hospital tonight, the difference was incredible. Kaela's color, which had been approaching a taupeish-orange, was once again bright pink (she has the cutest rosy cheeks!). She woke up some and started looking around again and pulling on her tubes, as if to say, "Ah, I feel better now. Now get me out of here!"
The doctor said not to be surprised if she needs blood tomorrow, so we won't. I'm glad she's getting what she needs. I'm also glad that my blood was approved for use in preemies, because it's something that only about 20% of the O negative donor population can do because of a common virus that most people carry. That makes me feel really special knowing that I can keep giving blood and it will always go to preemies and PICU. Now if only I can get past the passing out and vomiting part...
Finally, I took the camera and took some shots as a way to creatively express some of my feelings about everything. I'm feeling ovewhelmed and stressed out, like I just need a break. But I'm also feeling grateful for Kaela's progress and her excellent care. There's no manual for how one should feel about having a baby in the NICU, so I guess it's all normal. Here are some untouched-up photos from Friday night. Wild party, I assure you, just like every Friday night after you have kids =).
Kaela's pinky finger around her orange feeding tube.
A view from inside the isolette.
Through the isolette doors.
Sleepy time. Rest well, and grow stronger, baby girl. I love you.
Love to you all. Thank you for your prayers and kindness. They do sustain us.
--Andy
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