I know it's been almost a week since the last update, sorry for that.
Dad's brother spent last Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning with Dad. He mentions that he is still having hallucinations, which seem to get worse after he takes a drug to regulate his blood pressure: Clonidine is the drug. This frustrates me for two reasons: 1. The nurse tells me that he is no longer on blood pressure meds, yet he is on them!; and 2. Clonidine has known side effects that fit many of Dad's current conditions, so why is it a surprise to some doctor's why he is behaving the way he is? Craig mentioned that the doctor agreed to ween him off this drug to see if this affects Dad in any way.
His hemoglobin level is still 7, which is dangerously low. This has been this way for a long time.
Allie was down visiting him this past Sunday and left earlier today. She mentioned that he seems to be sharper lately, which seems like the waning the clonidine is helping (somewhat--he is still hallucinating although much more mildly). Allie says that Dad was making jokes while she was there, and he was watching some videos on the internet.
The transplant doc says his kidney is doing fine; he has good color. We just have to keep in mind that all this time spent in the hospital--even though he seems to be disturbed--he is continuing to heal. We hope he heals enough to get out sooner than later. He will remain in the hospital until the hole in his stomach closes (still not there yet).
He has sitters that remain with him throughout the day. They don't really do anything or know anything, but I'm sure it helps Dad to have some company (or some sort).
Our social worker is trying to locate an acute care facility for his transfer once Dad is discharged. Since none of these places exist in New York State, they are looking toward Erie for a facility that will accept him and his high care needs.
I will be going to Pittsburgh this Friday until Sunday to celebrate Father's Day with Dad. Looking forward to seeing his cleanly shaven face (Thanks, Allie!).
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