Step Down

Jeff sleeping in the ICU

If you've ever spent any time in an ICU you know how loud it is.  If you haven't, consider yourself lucky, and take my word for it.  Noise cancelling headphones are good for airplanes and noisy hospitals.  I think Jeff slept the best when he had these on.

Being nothing if not persistent, once I left yesterday Jeff continued to badger people about why is back hurt.  He finally found someone who told him.  He had a drain tube inserted behind his lung inside the chest cavity.  Every time he inhaled it was pushed by his lung into his back.  Once he knew why it hurt he could concentrate on other things.  Always has to know Why.  Life with an engineer.

Jeff's chariot awaits

Today was moving day.  Drain tubes were gone so were some of his IV's and Jeff was ready to go.  Only one problem.  Our mover, Bill was on his lunch break.   So I sat back down and continued to work, Jeff went back to sleep and we waited on Bill.

Jeff and nurse Eric, waiting on Bill

Once the infamous Bill arrived we moved into the Step Down ward.  Jeff has his own private room, #16 and a view of the Pulmonary Clinic and Case Western University.  It also has a fold out futon for guests, a.k.a. Me.

Arrival at Room 16

Guest bed and TV

Nice View huh?

Jeff will stay here for a few more days.  Right now we don't know how many that will be.  It's a day by day decision that is made by his cardiologist and Dr. Svensson.  Before we leave we'll meet with an after care nurse who will give us instructions on what to expect and what to do after we leave the hospital. 

Jeff is making tremendous strides.  I can't believe the changes I see in him everyday, even from just the morning to the afternoon.  He doesn't use the pain medicine button at all.  Whatever dose they have him on works great.  He's concerned about a slight tremor in his hands.  The cardiologist doesn't know what it is but will keep an eye on it.  It's probably an effect of the anesthesia still leaving his body.  He has full sensation in all areas and mobility.  He is very motivated to get out and return to his normal life.

Cheers from Jeff