Laurie underwent approximately a 9 hr surgery. We were finally able to briefly see her late that afternoon. She was hooked up to all these machines, including a breathing tube, some nitric oxide machine and a machine that worked with a balloon that was inserted into her heart. I'm sure you all can relate and know exactly which machines I'm referring to. She was heavily sedated so we said good night for now. The following morning, my kids and I were grateful we didn't receive any phone calls throughout the night. Friday morning we visited with Laurie, who was more alert, however, seemed very agitated and was complaining of the breathing tube. I felt so helpless, unable to help her. Due to her being very upset and agitated, the nurse increased her sedation medication. Laurie appeared to be stable and resting more comfortably.
Saturday, 10/27/12: we arrived at 9:00 am and found Laurie to be much more alert and responsive. She was able to communicate with us by writing on a pad. She expressed her dislike of the breathing tube and was thirty. The doctors then informed us that they were satisfied and happy with her numbers, therefore, they were planning on removing the machine with the balloon. As a result, they had to increase the sedation medication to remove this. I noticed the pulmonary hypertension numbers prior to the surgery were in the mid to high 90's now the were in the 40-50 range. I also noticed her BP prior to surgery was in the low 90's/70 now it's around 115/77. Anyway, getting very tired, going to bed. My children are leaving tomorrow. Gonna miss them. Thank you all for the concern/support. Till the next time.
