Patient Endurance

Fred is doing better, thank God!! He did have low grade fevers yesterday;100.4 last night, and was given Tylenol. Since the doctor had decided on Friday the 19th to give him continuous tube feedings and nothing by mouth until another swallowing test on Monday, this has caused him discomfort. He frequently asks for something to drink. He has to stay in a semiupright position(30 degrees) all the time, and it's hard for him to relax enough to dose off. His bed is firm and very unlike the extremely comfortable bed he sleeps in at home. He has to keep the tubing in his nostrils in for extra oxygen, which he's not crazy about. The IV Picc line in his left arm was bothering him, and he has another tube in his back which is draining his kidney. No wonder that it's hard to get comfortable! Fred needs to stay in the hospital until all the IV antibiotics are finished and there are no signs of infection. Obviously, it's hard to get rest in a hospital, and especially the critical care unit where Fred spent four and a half days. This has been a very long weekend for Fred, who has patiently endured much suffering for the last ten days. His spirits are good through it all, and I am amazed at the miraculous power of prayer and the body's ability to heal!