Care at Home

Mom came home by ambulance on Wednesday. Tina, Tami and Devon came to visit, just as the paramedics were dropping Mom off. A Vital Care nurse walked Suzy through the steps for administering Mom's IV fluids. Suzy has become very proficient at switching between the bags of cipro and saline. She commented last night about all the fuss that was raised about sending Mom home with IV fluids and needing a physician's oversight. It's gone very smoothly.

Mom has gained a little more presence and a little more conversation every day. She has blessed the kids with more Rose-isms. Last Thursday, Jodi was helping her get dressed and told her "Good job," when they were finished. Mom replied, "I hate it when people say, 'Good job.'" Jodi asked, "Okay, what would you like them to say?" Mom said, "I would like them to say, 'You have soft, silky skin.'"

And you know what? She does.

Mom finished her IV antibiotics last night and her saline early this morning. Her appetite has improved. She retained water while she was at the hospital. On Thursday, Mom's ankles, knees and hands were swollen. Suzy has been giving her magnesium and vitamin B complex to help her body get rid of the excess fluid. It's working well. She has some pain in her joints, particularly her knees and her right thumb, only when she moves them.

The kitties are very happy to have Mom home. Teddy and Babbette have taken turns keeping Mom company. Sometimes Teddy gets a little carried away and tries to lay on her chest, but most of the time he restrains himself. Mom loves it.

Yesterday I told Mom that granddaughter Karalyn contacted me online to find out how she was doing. Mom said, "Karalyn? Oh, that's wonderful!"

Mom is happy to be home in her own bed. We're happy and relieved to have her here. As usual, she is doing better at home, and we're determined to do everything we can, in her best interests, to keep her here.