New plan

Sutton has a lot of secretions due to his esophagus being non functional and his surgery, so respiratory has started something called IPV. It will help force extra air through at periodic intervals to keep his airway and breathing tube clear and healthy and to prevent secretions from pooling and causing infection (pneumonia, for example). Nothing is wrong, this is being used as a preventative measure right now. 

Also, the whole medical team is working very closely as we have still not found the right combination of medications to keep him comfortable. He seems comfortable for the most part, but if anyone touches him he quickly becomes irritated and sometimes holds his breath. This results in his vital signs being all over the map and the nurse having to force breaths in with the vent in order to keep him breathing until he calms down. 

Surgery. It is looking as though the consensus is for repairing his esophagus this coming Monday. They want to allow some of the swelling to go down first and they will need substantial OR time again (probably 6-8 hours) which requires scheduling coordination. 

He has had a PICC line placed and his peripheral IVs removed as well as the arterial line and his catheter. The PICC line will provide a more stable, longer term access for them to infuse medication, sedation and anything else they may need it for related to his daily care and surgery. 

Please pray that they can find a safe, sufficient cocktail to make him comfortable and that the IPV will keep any respiratory concerns at bay. Also, for the discretion of his physicians, nurses and other caregivers as they piece together the best plan of care and work to make him as safe and comfortable as possible.