A Surprise

 We received a surprise when we walked into the NICU this morning.  They had transferred Kai from the bed to an incubator overnight.  Usually, when they make any changes they call us or let us know, but the possibility of an incubator had been discussed shortly after Kai had been admitted to Primary Childrens, so they didn't call us.  We had thought since they didn't put him in last week that they wouldn't.  It was a shock to me, but J didn't mind as much.  The reason they put him in the incubator is because his hands and feet were cold because he kept moving them out of the blankets and snugly, so it helps to keep him warmer than he can be on the bed alone.  Additionally, it helps to cut out excess sound and light, so babies tend to grow a bit better while they are in there.  I don't know if any of you have been to the NICU before, but even though they try to keep it a quiet environment, with all the monitors beeping, the staff and visitors, it just is not quiet.

Kai actually seemed to sleep more peacefully today while in the incubator, so even though it may seem like a setback, it really is a good thing. 

We still get to participate in his care.  In the picture above, J is helping with what they call "cares."  He is changing the oxygen saturation probe on Kai's foot. They do cares every three hours.  Cares are where they change his diaper, rotate him, take his stats, and feed him.  Kai decided to go through about five diapers while J was changing him.  Between pooping and peeing, we have a very good digestive system going on!

On a positive note, Kai is now up to what they consider full feedings, which means that he will be exclusively on my breast milk, so they took out the PICC line today.  Hooray!  It was quite the ordeal getting the PICC line out because the tape on Kai's arm was so sticky and the nurse wanted to be as gentle as possible in removing it and not tear his delicate skin.  He was a trooper through it though, and even though it was obvious he was in distress, his heart rate didn't exceed 200 and his oxygen saturation levels never dipped.

The PT/OT (physical/occupational therapist) was there while we were taking out the PICC line because she was originally going to show us some massages we can do with Kai, and she commented on how great we were at being able to calm him and respond to his distress signals. :-)  She also mentioned how expressive Kai is with his hands, and she seemed very pleased with his responses.