The scan didn't identify any sources of bleeding or any problems with the GJ-tube. That's good and bad. Some things that might have been challenging to deal with have been mostly ruled out. On the other hand, we don't yet have a clear path forward. One possibility is that the source of the bleeding just resolved on its own (perhaps aided by discontinuing the blood thinners.) Depending on how the night goes, we may have an exploratory scope tomorrow to see if that reveals anything that did not show up on the CT scan.
After receiving 2 units of blood, the hemoglobin levels went up from 6.2 to 8.5. We're hoping that level will hold steady overnight. That would be another indicator that there isn't currently a major source of bleeding.
For tonight, we will go easy on eating and suspend the tube feeds. We're hoping for some more consultations tomorrow, when more people will be available. (Weekends are a bit slower in the hospital.)
One interesting discussion today was about the balance between using blood thinners for the clots and avoiding blood thinners to prevent bleeding. If they decide to avoid blood thinners, they may place a type of "filter" in one of her veins that would catch any traveling clots before they could get to the lungs or brain. Eventually the filter would also need to be removed.
We are hoping to consult with interventional radiology tomorrow about the issues we've been having with the GJ tube, despite the imaging looking good. We've spent that last couple hours dealing with the GJ tube, which is frustrating, but at least we clearly have the nurses on our side to advocate for a more proactive approach tomorrow.
Until then, we're hoping for a more restful night tonight. We both pulled an all-nighter last night in the ER and didn't get to a room until about 6:30 am. Today we've caught some naps between many visits from health care providers, but a good night's sleep tonight would be great. (Fortunately for me, we have a larger than average room that has a small sofa that I can sleep on -- much better than trying to nap in a chair.)
Comments
Pamela Plantinga: I very much hope you both slept well last night. I'm praying for steady hemoglobin and some answers today.
George Monsma, Jr.: praying for good sleep for both of you, and good progress in resolution of remaining issues tomorrow.
Alisa Tigchelaar: Praying for a good night's sleep for you, and for more clarity tomorrow, Randy and Penny. Grateful with you to hear that the nurses are supportive advocates. Much love. š
Lynne deBenedette: Iām hoping you both can get some rest. Lots of love.
Susan Langeland: Praying for restful sleep and Gj tube answers tomorrow.
Marie VanderLinde : Praying for good sleep and resolution of GJ tube issues! Much love to you both.
Patricia Boer Fischer : Prayin š Ya'll get Some Rest 2Nite š“ Hugg's & Lots of Love ā¤ļø 2Ya's!!! God Bless!!