CHOP time went out the window as we found the team busy at work this morning. The pace hasn't slowed down since. The air is thick with both excitement and tension as the countdown has started - Jordan is coming off ECMO today.
The x-ray this morning was still not quite what they were hoping for, but it was good enough. The ECMO circuit has started consuming blood products again. The team's hand is being forced a bit. There may not be better opportunity as the circuit may need to be changed. A circuit change at this time would make things almost impossible to overcome. Another round of edema and closed lungs - no thank you!
Jordan's tidal volumes continued to improve last night. Tidal volumes represent the volume of lung available on ventilation. This proved to be a deciding factor today. They are performing an echochardiogram to establish a baseline of Jordan's heart function for after ECMO support is removed. It will not be a factor in determining whether or not he's coming off ECMO today.
Like busy bees around a beehive, team members have filled the room with constant activity and discussion about Jordan's stats. What's his his blood pressure? What's the flow of the pump? How are his tidal volumes? How badly clotted is the circuit? Is Jordan shunting and why? What medicines are they going to give? When should they order the blood? What's his gas? - We have heard it all!
We have mixed emotions as this day progresses. We are so excited because Jordan needs to come off ECMO. It has done its job and ran its course. We are also anxious because we know the challenges that lie ahead for our son as he will be required to support himself. From this day on, Jordan's care will center around the removal of life support a little bit at a time. ECMO will be the first item to go. That will happen early this afternoon: a very big step for one tough little fighter...
So exciting and scary! Praying for you all!
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