D Update #12: Temperature 102

By Bill Craig
Dondra's started running a temp tonight (102). Blood cultures have been drawn, as well as a urine specimen taken to lab. We're thinking atelectasis, but no chest x ray has been ordered as of yet.

Atelectasis sets in when a post-operatve patient doesn't cough or deep breathe with the aid of incentive spirometry. It sometimes happens when the patient is under general anesthesia and is being breathed through an endotracheal tube by the anesthesiologist. The patient avoids deep breathing afterward because of the pain at the operative aite. Pneumonia can be the result of atelectasis, sometimes referred to as "whiteout".
The blood cultures have to incubate, but the urine specimen might reveal a kidney infection. D's is very concentrated, even though she's been drinking clear liquids.

I sometimes wish I didn't remember so much about my days as an RT.

Thanks

Bill

Comments

Anonymous said…
so sorry to read there are continuing complications. Sending good vibes and wishes that the docs can figure all this out and you will be on your way to a full recovery and back home.

Love and hugs to both of you, Becks
October 13, 2011 at 4:02 AM
Margaret said…
Hang in there, Dondra and Bill. Sending mojo your way, that Dondra may get better real soon.
You're right, sometimes knowing about medicine might make things tougher-- they say doctors are the worst patients...
Hugs, bon courage,
Margaret
October 13, 2011 at 1:46 PM
kels said…
Sending all my love and positive thoughts your way.<3
October 14, 2011 at 9:30 AM
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