What's Next?

When Mom walked into the NICU this morning she was surprised to see Archer did not have his CPAP equipment on. Instead, Archer had on a nasal cannula! The machine used to send the air to the cannula is known as Vapotherm. The cannula is on high flow, is sending six liters of oxygen, with an oxygen level around 45%. Some reasons for the big change include: having a good blood gas test, there was a large leak around the CPAP prongs (larger prongs would not fit), and he did well breathing on the CPAP but was very fussy when he was awake.
The cannula is smaller, flexible, and more comfortable. It should be less irritating for Archer to wear. It will make kangarooing with Archer much easier for Mom and Dad. Archer can still use the NAVA system to monitor his breathing, though it cannot be used to help backup his breaths. He will no longer require the CPAP, or ventilator, unless he has a rough spell. It is common to have to go back to these technologies for a short time to give the preemies a break from working too hard. Archer's breathing has been heavy at times, but fairly normal when he is resting. He has had very few, if any, apnaeic spells since he moved to the CPAP and cannula. Archer will most likely be on some sort of cannula for the rest of his stay in the NICU, if not when he makes the trip home as well. He has chronic lung disease. His lungs were not made to work this early in life. The future is uncertain regarding his lung strength, but he has made great strides in helping them heal and grow.
Archer's feedings were increased from 204 ml to 223.2 ml per day. His medications were changed due to his weight changes. However, the last weigh-in may have been off, or he may just have been working off a lot of calories, because this evening's weigh-in stated 2 pounds 12 ounces. His vocal chords are sounding a little better too.