Friday Evening Inpatient

Eden did receive red blood; however, her line leaked. Her bed sheets and clothes were soaked in blood. They got her cleaned up and ready for the rest of her evening. An antibiotic push was administered and another IV started with ZYVOX® (linezolid). Eden is currently eating, coloring and watching TV. I just spoke with Dr. Beng Fuh and he is working on getting one of Eden’s important prescriptions taken care of. Potassium Iodide, (SSKI®) is a medicine that protects her thyroid gland.

Her current vitals are:
• Platelet Count: 64
• HGB: 7.8
• Temp: 99.4

One of the things that have been affecting Eden is her VRE classification in terms of her playtime at the hospital. Someone ask me what VRE was so I am putting this quick summary up.

What is VRE: Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus?

Enterococcus is bacteria that live in the digestive and genital tracts. They are normally benign and do not cause any problems in healthy people.
Vancomycin is a powerful antibiotic that is often the antibiotic of last resort. It is generally limited to use against bacteria that are already resistant to penicillin and other antibiotics.
Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus is a mutant strain of Enterococcus.

Eden’s nurses and Drs handle her a bit different. The nurses and Drs put gowns and glove on prior to handling or working with her. She is normally isolated and not allowed to run the floor visiting and partying. Consumables that come into contact with Eden are used for Eden only: Like her blood pressure cuff and stethoscope. These types of items that are exposed to her are disposed of after usage along with many other items.