Frustrating Afternoon

I have talked to mom a few times today. It has been a frustrating day for both she and dad. Earlier in the day was the event at lunch time - then later it continued. Dad was very uncomfortable early in the afternoon. His abdomen was extended and having a very difficult time with his bowels. Mom discovered that even thought they had only moved a couple of hallways - she felt as though they had gone to a new hospital. They now have a whole new team of doctors - and support staff. Dads meds were cut WAY down. Limited pain and anxiety meds and tons less care.

Eventually mom asked to see the supervisor and had a sit down. The supervising nurse called in the doctor and they discussed moms concerns and things that needed to change. In addition to all the other changes - they also needed to reorder the 'sip in puff' nurse call that dad has been waiting on as well as the special boots (see the blog from last week). Because he is in a new area - it needs to be reordered. They also have changed his doses of meds. My uncle & aunt were there for a while today and my aunt (a nurse by trade) informed dad's nurse that he wears hearing aids and it was probable that he wasn't able to hear her. (Thanks Aunt Barb!) The PT thought that dad wasn't quite as strong as yesterday - but she could also tell that he was extremely tired today.

OOOOHHHHHHHHHHHH - - - Forgot to tell you all!!!!!!!! Dad was breathing on his own for TWO HOURS TODAY! He was a little overwhelmed and totally exhausted by the time he was done - but he did it! Mom said the last 15 minutes were probably more like 4 hours to him.

Dad has moved rooms - but mom didn't know the new room number. I'll get the number to you soon.

Tomorrow morning our family is going to Silver Lake for the weekend. I won't plan on blogging until we get back unless mom needs something put out there. So hopefully you won't hear from us for a few days. You are probably so sick of me and my rambling that you could use a few days off. Have a wonderful holiday weekend!