Katie has been more alert the last day. Even though she lays with eyes closed most of the time, she can be aroused most of the time. (It takes some effort, mainly speaking loudly, to wake her. But, is this any different than when she was a kid and didn't want to get up?)
She will respond properly to commands to move extremities.
The increased consciousness has been accompanied with increased restlessness the last 24 hours. She is experiencing some pain. Several medications have been tried, without much pain control. Dilaudid has been the only agent effective. After an IV dose, she is restful for a period of time.
Katie started running a fever of 103 yesterday. She has been treated by antipyretic (fever reducing) suppository. She is on ice packs. Her fever has remained about 103. Temporarily, it was down to 102 last night, but returned to 103.
Three days ago, Katie was cultured for pathogens, and all cultures came back negative. A full set of cultures were taken last night. Preliminary results are sometimes possible in 2 days, with full results in 3 days.
We know there will be ups and downs. I consider the last day an up day. Seeing Katie in pain is stressful to us as well as her. But, pain can be controlled, and will improve.
Thank you for your continued prayers.
Powerful pain meds can make her sleepy, too. And Dilaudid made me crazy itchy. Hope she gets comfortable soon!
ReplyDeleteWe are continuing to pray for Katie.
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