Day 40

Busy day

It was a very busy day at the hospital today. Nicki spoke with Robins doctor, who said that this week we will just focus on Robins growth, and make no changes to his optiflow and he increased Robins milk to 30mls per 2 hours. Dr Headly and Nicki spoke about the possibility of getting a Robin home for Christmas, which Dr Headly said might be possible – but is a bit of a stretch goal. Maybe with the early release program we may be able to achieve it.

Nicki also spoke with the physiotherapist, who will start to do some assessments of Robin over the next week. She will the come back and talk to us about what we can do to support Robins physical development.

Robin had another try at breastfeeding, and although he got tired quite quickly, he is certainly learning what to do. The supplementary milk he gets from breastfeeding is minimal at this point, but will increase over time. We are starting with one try on the breast per day, and once he is comfortable with that, we can increase in a few weeks.

Nicki and the nurse accidentally let a small amount of water flow backwards in the optiflow tubes – that meant that poor Robin got a nose full of water! The poor little duck had an immediate Brady and desat, but he reacted really well – he reflexly blew it all out and protected his airway. Some premie babies would have gasped or breathed in the water, but Robins breathing reflex is obviously well developed. We cleaned him all up, and he was back asleep like nothing had happened within the minute.

Robin also had a bit of a spew, so Nicki cleaned him and his cot up with minimal support from the nurses. Whilst they offered to help, and were there to assist, Nicki managed to do most of it one handed, with the other hand occupied holding Robin. She wanted to do it by herself, since when we get home, the nurses won’t be there to help with everything, so it’s good for Nicki to practice.

Visitors: Granny Suzy

Stats

Weight: 2040 grams

Air: optiflow 2L/ min

Feed: 30ml / two hourly (gavage)

Nurses: Judith / Ari