Terrifying Day

I have been through a lot with Michael over the past 8 years, but today was probably the most terrifying day of my life. I understand that weaning from the drugs Michael is on, is very difficult, but I was not prepared to see him in such pain, such fear and seeing how uncomfortable as he was today. The nurse & I just didn't get along. I wanted her to change Michael's position, provide mouth care for him and keep him comfortable. She made herself scarce. I had to get other nurses to help me with Michael's care. At one time during the day the nurse had the bed on rotation. (It moved from side to side. She failed to make sure that there was sufficient slack in Michael's line attached to the Trach.) The Trach became dislodged from the vent! I called for help. Many of the staff came running, not his nurse.

I spent the day providing mouth care, washing him with a washcloth, moving him and trying to explain to him how to communicate. His alarms were going off all day. I am home now, but in the back of my mind I can still hear that sound.

Michael continues to progress as expected. Now is the time to select an Acute Care facility which specializes in helping patients wean from the vent. I visited one location yesterday and one today. I was told to check out each place during both the day and night shifts.

I keep falling asleep, so I am off to bed.