Tuesday, May 5th - Update

They took mom down for a CT early this morning. Preliminary results show the left lung worsening but they can’t tell if it’s because of lack of the ventilator support or if it’s a cumulative effect from the inflammation/infection. There is more fluid in the lung as well as more air/fluid/infection in the plural space. 

They will be talking to Dr. Ardehali about the next plan of action. Being on the ventilator at a stronger setting applies positive pressure into the lung and forces it to expand more which can help when the lung is collapsed but it increases the reliance and weakens the diaphragm muscle. 

They performed a bronchoscopy just now to remove any secretions and get visuals on the right lung as well. They are concerned about it becoming more compromised. The left lung had lots of secretions and fluid but the right lung looked okay. They also made the call to put her back on the ventilator for more support and positive pressure for now. She is resting, they have increased her Tramadol pain medication to help with her back as well as start a new pain cream on her back.