That boy is thick!

So we went back after lunch/dialysis to learn that dialysis hadn't occurred yet. They had some trouble getting it started because Paul's blood was too thick. It's normal to have thick blood, but it doesn't work so well for dialysis. They didn't want to give him Heparin to thin the blood because of his surgery, but they ended up giving him a little bit in controlled amounts to thin the blood out. He was finally hooked up to the dialysis machine and was able to go 2 hrs before clotting the machine up. That didn't all finish though until a little before 5, so today was full of waiting. blah.

When we finally got to go see him, the nurse had come out to get us. As we were walking back, he commented that Paul has quite the sense of humor! haha, I take that as a sign that he's feeling okay. The dilaudid is working beautifully, however one of the side effects is lowering the blood pressure, which is the complete opposite of what we want. They were installing an arterial line when we left. With that, they'll be able to have constant blood pressure readings without bugging Paul with the cuff. They kicked us out for that, and then it would be time for shift change, so we've come home for dinner and chub-chub time. :)

I'll go back tonight after shift change and stay as long as they'll let me. They should have bloodwork results by then so we can see how well the dialysis did today. I'll post more when I know more.

Thanks again for all the prayers - keep em coming, they are much appreciated!!!!