The Silence of the Hiccups

Guess whose hiccups have been gone for 24 hours? Mine, and booooy am I happy.

Just kidding. Sleeping beauty is finally sleeping peacefully. For the first time since his discharge, the only sound is that of the hum from my computer, an occasional cough from Craig and water dripping??? (Time to put on my plumber's hat and/or saggy pants, whichever).

I'd like to give Craig credit for finally figuring out how to suppress his hiccups and he might write on this blog one day to brag that he did. But, truth be told, it was the liver with fava beans and a nice chianti. ;0) 

No, no, no. It's likely a combo effect: the higher dose of Haldol, Craig's will power, and my incredible nursing skills (although "apparently" I clamp his chest hair in his Hickman. To which I say--it's a little difficult to avoid, Sasquatch). I felt horrible at the time but discovered Jill did it too, so I don't feel so bad.

In all sincerity, Craig really held up under what most would consider sheer agony. To have your chest, belly, neck, nearly every part of your body spasm every 5-10 seconds would be intolerable, but he dealt with it as best he could. After initial tears, anger and disappointment, he buckles down and accepts each new symptom as part of the process he has to endure with the hope that it will someday disappear and give him peace. Thankfully, that someday has arrived with regard to the hiccups (spin around twice, knock on wood that they won't return!!). Now, he's catching up on much needed sleep. 

This is also day 3 without vomiting. I would have to consult FNJ (Fake Nurse Jill), but I think this is a record--so says FNE (Fake Nurse Erin). Plus, the pain has been managed to a certain degree. He bolted up this evening and immediately requested liquid morphine to cut breakthrough pain in his abdomen, but, by and large, it's been managed.

Now, if we can only help the horrible fatigue...

~E