Here is a run-down of his current status:
Weight
1 lb 14 oz
Length
12.5"
Breathing
A ventilator is helping Eagan breath so he is not using his energy and burning excess calories. The ventilator is currently on a low setting with "room air" going through it. This means the air has the same oxygen level that we breathe in.
Eagan was given a protein called surfactant to help prevent his lungs from collapsing and making it easier for them to expand.
His lungs were not well expanded on his first chest x-ray, but given how well he is breathing, the doctor expects a large improvement by Eagan's next x-ray.
Vein Access
An umbilical arterial line was placed just like it was an umbilical cord. This gives doctors easy access to check blood pressures, take blood, and administer medications without sticking Eagan with needles.
An umbilical vein line was also placed, but is not precisely where it needs to be. Tomorrow, a PICC line (peripherally inserted central catheter) will be placed as another method to give Eagan IV fluids and medications.
Medications
Eagan is getting two antibiotics for the next 48 hours, Ampicillin and Gentamicin. These are needed because the amniotic sac was ruptured for so long, which could cause an infection.
His blood pressure is running low currently so he is getting a medication called Dopamine to help raise his pressure.
Nutrition
I am pumping breastmilk for Eagan. He will be getting tiny amounts on a swab in his mouth. Currently, he is getting vitamins through his umbilical catheter. In a few days, he will start lipids and eventually breastmilk.
Jaundice
Eagan is jaundiced, as almost all premature babies are. Starting tomorrow morning, he will sleep under bilirubin lights to help reduce his levels.
Thank you for all your love, support and prayers. Eagan's birth story is coming soon!
