PICU Update # 3

     Ethen is continuing to progress well. The medical team continues to gradually reduce Ethen's oxygen supplement and the pressure of the ventilator. He has responded well to all the adjustments. This is obviously encouraging. We are also encouraged that, as X-rays seem to indicate, it does not appear that Ethen's lung injury will have any longterm effects on his breathing. The X-rays also indicate that there is still some congestion/fluid in Ethen's lungs, but it is much less than a day ago. Another adjustment made today was to halt the paralytic meds. We were happy to be finished with these, but we had to tie Ethen's arms down to prevent him from extubating himself. It's hard to see Ethen struggle against the restraints, but it was good to see him showing his urge to fight (even through the other sedative medications). We will continue to take small steps toward recovery. Please pray that Ethen continues to respond well to the adjustments.