3.19.06: preparing for extubation

Avery has continued to make progress throughout the week. The doctor considered extubating him today, but decided to give him just one more day to be sure he was ready to breathe on his own. We definitely feel he is ready.

Avery has been a lot more active and restless these past two days. It’s a good sign. We’re trying to keep him happy and prevent having to sedate him as much as possible, but it still becomes necessary at times. It’s obvious when he’s getting to the point of being uncomfortable.

Throughout the week, Avery’s crib has become more decorated with toys, homemade cards from little buddies (thanks Mark, Ted and Jillian), photos and even a beautiful butterfly mobile lent to him by his pals Kyle and Owen. The Child Life folks brought by some toys and a blanket for Avery to keep. If he gets off the ventilator tomorrow as planned, then he will be able to start moving his head around again and will be able to enjoy his colorful surroundings.

It’s time to start eliminating the attachments. Today they pulled the scalp IV. Next will be the ventilator (we hope!) and soon to follow should go the NG tube, if he has no problem returning to a bottle. Best case scenario, he may be able to come home by around Thursday.

We will see how it goes.