PICC line in

Steve has returned to the room from the PICC line placement. It was successfully placed in his upper right arm. A huge step toward going home!

I administered the two last doses of IV antibiotics. It's not difficult, but there are many steps to remember -- reconstituting the drug, clamping, unclamping, releasing air, plugging, etc. Yesterday's RN assured us that I won't be able to do anything to hurt Steve, and I know there are a few of you out there I can call on for help or advice.

We had a moment of concern last night/early this morning. The drug schedule has stretched over the week. He was receiving doses every six hours, then every eight. Last night they changed it to every 12 hours -- more medicine, less frequently. That meant we needed to wake at 1 a.m. to give the drugs and 3 a.m. to remove the IV.

One of the rounding doctors this morning says we can be flexible with the times, so we're not stuck with 1 a.m. and 1 p.m. for the next two weeks. We'll choose a time that's more compatible with our need to sleep when Cooper and Katie sleep.

Today's RN seems to be on a mission to get Steve out of here before noon. We're waiting on the case manager to stop by with more information on equipment and drugs for home.

We hope you all are enjoying Christmas Eve!