30 weeks!!

NIK 6/8

Nik has hit 30 WEEKS!!

He has been doing pretty well today.  He has had a bunch of up and downs with his stats.  More than they would generally like to see right now.  But during his CPAP check at 8pm he totally rocked it!!  He did a great job to every ones surprise.  They are usually ready for all kinds of reviving techniques.  But he did fantastic.  I think it was because he knew I was going to take his pic for his 30 week special day!

Nik had his blood work done today.  His Hematocrit level (red blood count) was on the low side, but with in the bottom few number of what they consider acceptably normal at this point.  He also had his Retic level (new red blood cell count) checked.  His was lower than Jakes but does show he is trying to produce his own little red blood cells...but just not to quickly.  At this point they will not give Nik another blood transfusion.  But will watch his oxygen stat closely to see if he becomes symptomatic and warrants another blood transfusion in the next couple days.

Nik's growth panel came back...he is already on the 27 calorie per ounce fortification feedings.  He was put on this amount 1 1/2 days ago.  He seems to be doing well with it..although it does slow things down a bit on the way out.  But last night he did gain weight!!! Yea, better than a loss.

Jake 6/8

Jake has hit  30 WEEKS!!!

He had a rough day on his 30 week day!  Poor baby.  Just couldn't keep the breathing thing going.  He totally crashed during his CPAP check, which it totally unlike him.  Took a bit of time to get him to come back around.  Scary for me.  But he's a little fighter...and tomorrows a new day!!

He had his blood work done.  His hematocrit levels (red blood count) was lower than what they consider normal.  (I was expecting this...he's been pale and his oxygen level hasn't been as stable.)  But his Retic level (newly produced red blood cell count) was actually higher than they expected.  This means he is trying to produce his own little red blood cells...which is great!!  But they don't carry oxygen well yet, and they may not sustain him...therefore, I'm watching really close for any symptoms or signs of respiratory distress to indicate he needs his blood transfusion.  I would rather he receive extra blood...just so his tiny body doesn't have to work so hard.

His growth panel came back as well.  Not as much gain and growth as they would like to see...so they may increase his fortification and calorie intake per ounce to assist him.  I would also like to see that happen...sooner would be better than later.

I'm looking forward to when both my tiny boys can put together a few good days in a row with some consistent weight gain....even if it's just a few grams each night.