The feeding tube
I told everyone in our house to watch Tabatha and make sure she doesn't pull on that tube. I gave strict instructions to Charlie to yell if Tabby is ever grabbing at the tube. I told Emily to make sure Tabatha doesn't lift up Ruby's shirt. I was afraid she was going to yank that tube right out!
Yesterday that happened....on my watch!
The Culprit
The Giggling Victim
I ran into the kitchen to search for her replacement tube and I was frantically trying to remember what the surgeon told me to do if this ever happens. Funny how it seems so easy when you are sitting in the doctor's office getting those instructions; actually having to do it is a different story. I found the back up tube in Ruby's wheelchair bag. I grabbed a syringe, filled it up with 4 mls of water, popped the little tube in, filled the small balloon with water (this holds the tube in her stomach) and we were good to go. I was still tingling with adreneline and Ruby was kicking around on the ground smiling. The whole thing didn't seem to bother her one bit! You would think having that tube and small balloon yanked out a hole in your stomach would hurt a little!
All is well that ends well. Ruby needed her tube changed this month anyways, she didn't seem to be upset by the whole deal and Tabatha just went about her business as usual.
I will be keeping a closer watch on Tabby's little hands though.
Never a dull moment :)
7 comments:
I LOVE your positive attitude, Kelly! And I also love the picture of the giggling Ruby!! God knew just what he was doing when he chose you for Ruby's mom. Thanks for sharing your special stories. They warm my heart.
Do you ever get a break!!??! We are so glad that you handled it all so well. Tabby.....that lil' stinker! We love and miss you all........Mom TH
Good job keeping your head on straight and getting the next tub in smoothly!
When I was working at Carelinc, I took SO many calls about a g-tube or mini button being yanked out! It happens all of the time. It seems like it would be really painful, but I think those kiddos are used to it or something. Maybe it's sort of like an earring, where you'd think putting one back in would be painful, but it's really nothing. ? just a thought. :) Good job staying calm, and hopefully you don't need to worry about too much longer!
Yep - it is a little intimidating when it actually happens, eh? I remember being so worried about it with Rachel when she was little, and now that both girls have the g-tubes, we are more relaxed with them. We have to change ours every three months. Keep some clean lubricant (K-Y?) handy for when you need to re-insert the g-tube; Vaseline is not advised because it can break down the material of the tube.
And I understand the adrenaline part too... I find myself thinking about all the tasks that I never thought I'd add to my day; you can only laugh and embrace that new normal!
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34Thankfully that hasn't happened here yet but I'm sure it is a matter of time. :)
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