Sunday, October 10, 2010

Today was a good day. Phil went back to Ann Arbor first thing this morning and made it back in time for rounds. Caleb has been increased to 22 mL/hr of breast milk. It sounds like they might not be adding the supplement any time soon, so I think that they increased his volume to give him some more calories. Phil's understanding was that they didn't want to make the breast milk too concentrated so it would be difficult for Caleb to digest. He will stay on the continuous feed pump because it is easier for his body to digest at a constant rate instead of dealing with a large quantity at one time like a normal baby does.

Caleb was also less fussy last night. We think that he is enjoying having something in his belly again - several nurses have commented to that effect as well. At least we know he is in the right family, he is much happier when eating (especially continuously).

Yesterday, I was really worried about Caleb's fussiness and the resulting drugs. When I had Ella, the pediatrician said that if the baby fusses for Dad, Dad should take Mom's robe, throw it over his shoulder and let the baby smell Mom. Yesterday morning, I left the t-shirt that I used for pajamas the night before at the hospital. When Phil got there this morning, the t-shirt was in Caleb's bed, up by his face. I have talked to several people that used this for puppies. It seems to work for Caleb too.

Hopefully, Caleb can start to gain some weight now that he is on full feeds and not wasting all of his calories throwing fits. We lost some ground last week when he had his big bleed (we call it his fountain impression) that we have not regained. We will see what this week brings - smelly t-shirts and all!

Yesterday's Weight: 3.58 kg
Today's Weight: 3.59 kg
Change: +10 grams

Note: A penny minted after 1982 weighs 2.5 grams.