Monday, February 8, 2010

A better day so far-except for the rain...

Rain all day...how miserable to care for patients. Our scrubs are covered in mud, we are sweating under the ponchos (for those that have them), and then freezing in the ICU and OR. All not as bad as my little friend here...he has 60% BSA burns, goes to the OR every other day for a dressing change. He came back 94 degrees after the OR! I should have NOTHING to complain about! George has been operating on him every time since he's been here and we are at the end of our rope with what we can do with his grafts, and we just heard word that he is accepted state-side soon!

As for my ventilated patient, Dr. Previl was ecstatic that this was the first successfully ventilated then extubated patient they have had here at Sacre Coeur! As you may recall, when I got here my 1st day, she was intubated with a heart rate of 140 and breathing 55 times/minute, completely lethargic. Her brother was here today, she is all smiles, using her incentive spirometer.

14 comments:

  1. Joe, Awesome Job!! Tell Dr Previl that I said Hi.
    I know how difficult it is hang in there!!
    It is all worth it!
    It was great working with you!
    I returned home to Pittsburgh to 28 inches of snow!
    Take Care
    Gene Fordyce RRT,RCP

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  2. To: Dr. Walsh

    HHHHHHHHHRRRRRRRMMMMMMMMMPPPPPPHHHHHHHHHH!!!

    T-Bear & Patty

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  3. Randy - We have enjoyed reading about your work and seeing the pictures. It will be nice to hear many more details in a few days, when you return. We are thinking about you often and can't wait to talk with you. Love, mom and dad

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  4. Fred-
    We hope you have been able to find some cigars to keep the mosquitoes away. Happy birthday! We are sure this will be a memorable one!
    Love, Terry and Randy

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  5. When you say you need ICU nurses, I'm sure I'm not the only one thinking "Just give me the time and place and I'll be there". Where should we inquire? Your families have got to be syncopal with pride. Big love to all.
    Paula Ho

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  6. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I worked for SBO and have a special place in my heart for all of you. God Bless!

    JanetLanning

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  7. Hi Rand,

    Just spoke with Kimbers tonight while she was at John's game. It sounded like they were doing well based on the background noise! We talked about how proud we are of you (she really misses you!) We will be so happy to have you home again. Thank you for helping the Hatian people. You are a dedicated doc and your humanitarian efforts there have made a difference to all of us. We love you!

    Be safe!
    Hugs,
    Krissie

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  8. God Bless all of you. You guys are all doing a fabulous job helping these people. We all miss and think about you guys everyday. Keep up the good work and stay safe. SBO docs can't wait to see you when you get home!!!
    Jackie

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  9. Thank you again for doing such a wonderful job blogging.
    Our daughter is one of the critical care nurses. At Memorial she works the 3rd shift. However, while volunteering her time in Haiti, she's been admonished by her Dad and I to remain with the group. If the group or group majority is working days and/or evenings (that's when security is the highest), then she's to be on days and/or evenings also. Her safety is paramount to those who love her. Thank you all for your selfless spirit!

    Della Graham

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  10. I am moved beyond words at the magnitude of the compassion that you and so many others are capable of. I pray for all of you in Haiti; those who suffer by physical and emotional loss and those who tend to their needs. I pray that you are all aware that God knows your heart and is always with you. Be safe and Godspeed.

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  11. Thanks for all you are doing. The halls of the hospital are quieter without you. Stay safe and know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

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  12. Hi Joey,

    You and your staff are truly inspirational! Keep up the amazing work! You are in our prayers.
    Love,
    Karl and Wendy

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  13. Joey, I am truly amazed by all that you and the volunteers do there for those suffering victims. I am overwhelmed by your compassion, endurance, and fortitude. We pray everyday for you, staff , patients and continuity of care for the victims. We love you and selfishly we pray for your safe return. We know you are all changed by this experience, and we are grateful for your ability to share this with those of us who can only wish we could make the impact you all have on this tragedy of the Haitians.
    We love you very much,your sis,
    Maria, Jim, Alec, Cole and Everett

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  14. These children of Haiti have been affected in such a positive way by the helping hands of the medical team. All of you have made such an impact on everyone's life there. Think off all the lives saved because you were there to help. It is heartwarming to know people who know what to do when the going gets tough. And the impact doesn't stop there...all of you are an inspiration and make me strive to do more for the people who need it. Thank you for being an inspiration to all of us.

    Ginny S. - SBO

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