The rollercoaster that is ICU has taken major downturn

Overnight we’ve gone from thinking my dad could be off the vent in a couple of days, to being asked if we want to go in.

During the night they had to do a bronchoscopy to clear a lot of secretions in his lungs. They don’t know if it’s new secretions or clearing of secretions from deep in his lungs. They think it’s more of a mechanical problem of not being able to clear his airway as there don’t seem to be signs of additional infection.

His oxygen requirement went up to 100%, though they’ve got it back down to 60% now.

I’m trying to remain hopeful, but don’t know how I’ll act or what I’ll say when I go in. I don’t want to say anything that will make him think he won’t make it if there’s a chance he could. He’s a sensitive soul and I don’t want to say anything that will upset him too much.

Does anyone have any advice, words of encouragement or suggestions for me?

[FamilyHistorian]

I can’t remember if your dad has any grandchildren. How about taking in some messages from them - written , video , audio.

[Hidden in reply to FamilyHistorian]

Yes, great idea, thank you!

[LeopardGecko]

I always told my husband how well he was doing and how proud everyone was of him - he probably got tired of me telling him to "keep up the good work"! 😃

I agree with FamilyHistorian - messages would be lovely for him to hear or read. I sent my husband messages from friends and family as well as videos of our little boy. Not sure if you have already sent in photos but this is something my husband liked as well and also gave the staff something else to talk to him about.

[LeopardGecko]

I'm not sure if you are visiting your dad tonight but there is a relatives support group on tonight from 6:50-9 run by ICUSteps Chester. I'm sure they will have some words of support and wisdom for you if you wanted to join.

[Hidden in reply to LeopardGecko]

Thanks, I reached out to Sepsur to ask about joining.

[Maddie232425]

I’m so sorry for what you’re going through. It’s such an incredibly painful time. I just want to say that you are in my thoughts and so is your dad. Warm hugs to you all x