Another good day in the NICU. Justin was taken off the phototherapy lights this morning because his bilirubin (jaundice) levels are low enough that he doesn't need lights anymore. They also say that once feedings are more frequent his levels will go down even more. He gained 2.5 ounces since yesterday which is his first day that he hasn't lost weight. They increased his feedings to 1.1ml per hour and he seems to be tolerating that just fine. When he was born, they put an IV in his belly button (umbilical artery) and that is where he has been receiving all of his meds/nutrients. They took that out today because it has been in for a week and they don't want it to get infected. They started another IV in his arm but it is not a normal IV. This one should last 7-10 days and he shouldn't need one after that (as long as his feedings continue to increase). They use this special IV (not sure what it is called) because the normal ones only last for one day. This will be better because he won't have to get poked everyday with a new one.
I just thought I would comment...some people have asked when his actual due date was. His due date was December 15th. So, he was 28 weeks and 4 days when he was born.
I have been able to hold him everyday since the first time. Tonight, Jason will take a turn at Kangaroo Care. They say that it is great for dads to participate too and I think he is looking forward to it.
Oh, by the way, Justin is a week old today and the doctors couldn't be happier with his progress...and us too!!
Well, any nephew of mine is certain to be an overachiever! His older cousin, Ali, is also very proud of the fact that they both have shared in the billi lights experience. We're thinking of you all everyday and can't wait to meet him someday.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the good work champ!
XXOO Auntie Kim
What a little champ!! Love the new picture as well!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the updates-I think of you guys everyday!
Katie