m0mmaBuck Posted May 29, 2013 Share Posted May 29, 2013 My 8 yo severely autistic (does not speak, communicates through pictures and can understand simple 3-4 work instructions) neice was hospitalized Monday for pneumonia. She was extremely lethargic until the IV antibiotics seemed to start working and then she became a little more active (self-stim behaviors returned, watching videos with family,etc.). Last night she was restless/combative and pulled out her IV's numerous time. Today her fever is back and the newest set of xrays showed an increase in plural effusion and her O2 sats are dropping so she is in surgery to have chest tubes placed. I am wondering if they will sedate her to keep her from pulling at the tubes vs. restraining her physically. It seems like they will have to do something to keep her from pulling them out. Neither has been discussed with my brother-in-law or his wife yet. And if you are still reading, could you maybe say a prayer or send good vibes their way? Thanks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted May 29, 2013 Share Posted May 29, 2013 Awww, I hope she gets better, soon. Saying a prayer. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cindy in FL. Posted May 29, 2013 Share Posted May 29, 2013 Very sorry to hear about your niece. I am praying for her. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
prairiewindmomma Posted May 29, 2013 Share Posted May 29, 2013 They make soft restraints that can keep her from being able to bend her elbow to keep her from pulling out her iv. Most children's hospitals have a variety of techniques to keep kids from yanking lines. Child life can also be brought in for additional support. Sending prayers!!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
m0mmaBuck Posted May 29, 2013 Author Share Posted May 29, 2013 They make soft restraints that can keep her from being able to bend her elbow to keep her from pulling out her iv. Most children's hospitals have a variety of techniques to keep kids from yanking lines. Child life can also be brought in for additional support. Sending prayers!!!! What is Child life? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sbgrace Posted May 29, 2013 Share Posted May 29, 2013 I'm sorry she is going to need surgery. Child life, in children's hospitals, specialize in meeting needs of kids. This can mean emotional support, schooling needs, special medical stuff particular to the child such as preparing for procedures, social things, play etc. It would be really good to be connected to them in this situation, if that hasn't already happened. They would hopefully "know" autism. I will pray for your niece and family. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
m0mmaBuck Posted May 30, 2013 Author Share Posted May 30, 2013 The procedure went well. She's sleeping now. They drained about 400 CC of fluid and the drain will stay in a few more days so she'll probably be in the hospital over the weekend. I will mention Child Life to my SIL. Thank you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
*Lulu* Posted May 30, 2013 Share Posted May 30, 2013 Glad to hear it went well. Praying she rests easy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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