Staph Infection Update

Not a whole lot to update today. Things are relatively stable and that is good. The infections disease team came in to evaluate Elias and make recommendations on antibiotics for the MRSA. They switched the antibiotic to Clindamycin since he had been on the other one before. Clinically, Elias' CBC numbers are going in the right direction so that is a good sign the meds are eradicating the MRSA from the blood. One other positive to the switch is the Clindamycin can actually be given PO (through his G-Tube) or IV. This is great given the IV access problems. It is more effective with IV, but at least there are options. Elias has really had a time the last 3-4 days with that going through 7 IV sites. It averages 60-90 minutes to get a new one going. Friday night to get the blood culture and IV it took just over 3 hours and about 6 nurses to get it started. That is probably the biggest issue with Elias right now. The poor guy is just exhausted from the poking. He did get some good sleep in yesterday and overnight. So far this morning he has continued that rest. We are glad he needed it. His nurses are working around "his schedule" not disturbing with him until he is awake.

Yesterday, I learned to suction Elias' Trach tube. I was able to do this several times through the course of the day. Although Elias gave me the dirtiest look when he was done the first time. Too bad there wasn't a camera ready. His nurse was laughing, then came the boo-boo lip. Daddy apologized to Elias and after a quick kiss to the forehead Elias gave me a smile!! Tomorrow is the another dilation of his esophagus and changing the trach tube for the first time in the OR. This trip to the OR should be much smoother than the last, thankfully.

Finally, to everyone who has sent us emails over the last several days, thank you! There have been some great suggestions and showing of support. We are working to respond to them, slowly I'm afraid. We know you all understand and appreciate how busy things are, but we want to acknowledge the time and effort you all put in to writing us. You will hear from us soon. We just really are happy that so many people are taking an active interest in Elias and offering some wonderful advice. Please keep them coming, they are so valuable.