Another Post-op Update

     Today's been pretty good. Although Ethen has slept most of today, he has had some periods of contented wakefulness this afternoon. Overnight Ethen was in some pain, but he was probably more irritated because of itchiness from morphine. Thankfully there are other options for pain management.

     Ethen has been drugged and groggy most of the day, but he seems to have progressed well. The nurses came in during the afternoon to remove Ethen's catheter, which I'm sure was a relief! A little later they took out the naso-gastric tube that was draining bloodied gastric liquid resulting from the gastric tube placement. Draining Ethen's stomach was done to prevent vomiting---we are thankful that he did not vomit. By late this afternoon there had been no drainage since mid-morning, which signaled that it was time to take the N-G tube out. With that, Ethen has been cleared to drink water or other clear liquids. Going forward we are listening for borborygmus, or as the doctor likes to say, "We're looking for farts." Because the surgeon had to manipulate Ethen's intestines during the operation, there is a chance that Ethen could develop ileus. This sort of bowel obstruction can be serious, but we are not at a point to be concerned.

     Please pray that Ethen's bowels will recover well. Please pray that Ethen can eliminate fluids. You can possibly see his swelling in the picture. Pray generally for a speedy and complete healing.