Blockage, 2 infections... 2/3 good news!

I have news that's not very detailed yet, but 2/3 of it is good. I couldn't wait to fully understand everything before posting. I wanted to let everyone know that some good things happened. Be encouraged, and keep pulling for us!

Good: The blockage seems to have resolved itself (Denise had a bowel movement). There was an ileus, nothing mechanical, perhaps pressure from the ab swelling, some twisting of the intestine... I'm not sure yet.

Good: There are two different types of pseudomonal infections. I'm not sure which specific ones they are, but I hope to find out when I go to the hospital in a few minutes. Anyway, the infection in the blood seems to be responsive to the antibiotics. (Let me hear an "Amen!")

Bad: Unfortunately, the infection in the lung is a resistant pseudomona, and this terrifies me. That said, one of the infectious disease doctors said two things that offered glimmers of hope. Sometimes an antibiotic won't work in the lab, but it will in a person (however it can go the other way, too). Also, there is a "last resort" antibiotic (Polymyxin) that in general is effective against pseudomonas infections. It's not used much because other antibiotics with milder side effects are available. But if they have to use this one, they will.

I should add that yesterday, Denise had a tube inserted down her nose to drain her stomach (parents, try explaining THAT one to your young children!). The nurse thought that Denise was much happier and restful than the previous night (when there was lots of vomiting). Denise's heart rate was much lower (98-117 range mostly), as was her fever (100.x) most of the day yesterday.

I'm off to the hospital now!

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