I know I have been absent from the blogging world, and it isn't because we haven't had anything interesting happen lately, I just haven't made it a priority. So I apologize to all who have been faithfully checking for updates, and I am warning you in advance that I am returning with a post of frustration.
As many of you know, we have had some health concerns with Clara. We have been to see the doctor up at Emmanuel hospital and as expected, she ordered some lab work. (BTW she was very impressed that Jeff is on the diet he is on, she likes it but rarely prescribes it because of how hard it is to stay on - way to go Jeff!!) Jeff had said he would be the hero (or in Clara's mind the villain), which means he had to take an extra long lunch, and I would have to be on time getting into town with everything (including a stool sample) ready to go. A few weeks ago we got everything set to take Clara in for the draw.
It was horrible! The poor thing screamed the whole time (expected) AND they had to poke both arms!!! Apparently they couldn't find the vane the first time because she has unusually small, dodgy, deep vanes for someone her age and they were actually digging around for it. So they switched arms. Jeff really wanted to punch someone. She was slightly consoled with the stuffed giraffe they gave her and was very proud of a band-aid on both arms. She was better after some french fries and a frosty. Jeff was truly traumatized, and he isn't even allowed to have french fries or a frosty.
But wait it gets better..... A few days ago I get a call from Salem hospital lab (my reaction is heart stopping, what have the found that they are getting back to us so quickly, panic). Well apparently there was a labeling issue and every thing has to be thrown out without being tested and we have to come back in. YEAH RIGHT!!! Now I am mad.
What would you do?
1. Take her back in for doctored ordered tests
2. Say it looks like she is finally starting to grow well and skip everything.
3. Find a different lab to work with
4. Change the approach and just do an endoscopy which she would be asleep for, but could possibly be just as traumatic.
5. (Please insert any suggestions here!)
6 comments:
How about steroids for Clara? Hard to image Clara hulking around like Arnold. Sorry, that is a terrible answer. I hope you figure it out soon.
And yes, you've been missed in the blogging world.
Oh my dear girls!! (and Jeff of course too) I am gonna say, having watched all involved procedures several times, to attempt the test again. Endoscopy may be done while she is sleeping but will be harder on her in the long run. Frosties will NOT fix that one for sure.
When you take her in next time, pump that little girl full of liquids. More volume in the veins make them easier to find.
Also, give her some Tylenol about an hour before. It does help with the pain a little and will calm her down a bit. After that I most firmly prescribe Pink bandaids and more ice cream. Dad definately deserves a special treat too.
And feel free to chew out the lab! That is unthinkable. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. My love to all! Meg
Salem hospital is the worst. They tried to kill Karen - twice! I'd see if you can get into the Salem clinic instead. That's where we go for regular doctor stuff and tests.
Oh my gosh! Go somewhere else. Good grief!!
Man, that really sucks! Well I would opt for the labs again, given the options.
Yes, lots of fluids, and bring a warm rice bag to put on her arms to bring those veins to the surface.
Maybe try Silverton hospital, McMinnville, Corvallis? Any private labs in Salem?
oh man!! how traumatic!! so sorry!!! i have to agree with others and say get the poke again, and i too must put my 2 cents in-we have all our kiddos drink about 4 glasses of water before sticking them for blood. it helps make the veins pop up and more visible. and maybe come up with something fun to do afterwards to distract her mind from the experience???
love, hannah
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