Rest & Reassurance

The last few hours have been tough for Corinne. She just can't get comfortable and settle down to sleep. She will rest for a few moments, but then her little eyes pop open and she cries out. Her blood pressure is still not where it needs to be, especially when she is uncomfortable. I have been typing this update a few words at a time over the last hour. The nurse just gave her something to help with anxiety. The last couple of attempts at feeding have been less than ideal - she didn't drink very much and spit up twice. If feeding doesn't improve, Corinne will need a ng tube to make sure she gets adequate nutrition. Brett has run back to the house now and will bring back her normal bottles (Dr. Brown Bottles) to see if that helps with the feedings. We also requested that she get formula mixed from powder vs. the pre-mixed stuff, just to make everything as familiar as possible for her...

Corinne's cardiologist, Dr. Jeanne James, just stopped in as I was typing this update. She assured me that Corinne was progressing nicely and that the difficulties she's having are just unfortunate side effects of the surgery/meds she needs. She reminded me that we really are only 24 hours post-op. She said to expect Corinne to perk up much more after another 24 hours or so. She agreed that the ng (feeding) tube might be needed if our plan of familiar bottles/formula doesn't work, but that it would only be temporary and would really help her to gain weight and get stronger. Corinne's weight before surgery was 10.5lbs, so she's still little bitty for her age (but very long, over 24 inches). Overall though, Dr. James was very pleased with Corinne's progress and how well the surgery went.

It's been about 30 minutes or so since Corinne got the anxiety medicine and she's really calmed down and is finally resting beautifully. I feel reassured that all is well after speaking with Dr. James, so time for Mommy to get some rest too!