Tuesday, August 2

Day 3 begins


Lars had a good night. He said that he slept well. He remains in the ICU for now. He is on BiPAP, which has really helped him to maintain oxygenation.

Rounds will be about 8:30 or 9:00. That is when and where most of the decisions will be made for the goals of the day. I imagine it will be about decreasing his oxygenation as Lars' lungs allow.

There may be some talk about the chest tube. That is the tube that was placed through the side of his chest to treat his punctured lung (not to be confused with the other 'tube' that was in his throat to help him breathe). It is my guess that it will probably be another day or two before the chest tube is removed. There really is no rush on this other than it is uncomfortable and he has to carry around a little bubbling container with him when he walks.

They will likely encourage him to get out of bed and walk around some. That is very important to open up his lungs, prevent blood clots in his legs, and to prevent pressure sores from too much bedrest (couch potatoes take note). Not to mention it will just feel good to stretch his muscles and joints.

Lars continues to be thirsty. As long as he is on BiPAP they won't give him any fluids by mouth. He gets plenty of fluid through his IV.

I don't anticipate great leaps in progress from here on out. The blog updates will probably not be exciting. We are hoping for a consistent steady progress forward.

7 comments:

  1. I love the updates, Kurt! No one better to give (and explain) them than a physician. :-) The Tallman family continues to keep Lars and his loved ones in our prayers. Keep the updates coming -- no matter if they are "exciting" or not. I look forward to each one!

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  2. The blog does not always need to be exciting. We all here on KATS just appreciate all the updates. Lars and your whole family are in our prayers and our wish is for his speedy recovery. Heal fast and full Lars and come home soon! Casey Ogg

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  3. Thanks so much for the updates! I have had "Blas" in my mind for the last three days, and it's great to hear he's doing better. Every time I see the PEEP machine word I think you're talking about me! Send him my love.
    Srta. Peeps

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  4. Boring or not, keep the updates coming and thank you! With time, patience and prayer comes healing and progress, hang in there Lars!

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  5. We appreciate all the information you all are providing to all of us that are wondering. It was good to see you all yesterday and I know it meant a lot to the kids to be able to be there even if for a short moment. Any news to many of us is exciting. Your an amazing family. We pray Lars continues to make steady progress and for your family in this tough time.

    The Snow family

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  6. Gosh Lars I am so proud of you. You have made an extreme amount of progress. I love you and am so happy your doing ok. It will be nice to have you home little brother.

    -- Maxie

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  7. Dear Lars, Kurt and Tara -- Flo and I were shocked and saddened at the news on Sunday when we learned of the accident. Our thoughts were of that beautiful pleasant face at the Sacrament Table and that electric smile that emanates from you Lars. You are a gift to all of us with your sweet spirit and your relentless energy. Flo and I didn't get to participate in your Pizza feast,(too many carbs) but our thoughts and prayers have been for your complete recovery. I firmly believe that will occur. The Lord has presrved your life for the great work you will be asked to do here on earth and we know you will fulfill that calling. I'm sure your friend will be accomplishing a similar mission on the other side of the veil. Keep your sweet spirit and enthusiasm and get better.
    Flo and I send our love, prayers and continued petition for your return to us here in Bigfork as soon as possible. We are grateful to you Kurt and Tara and Anika for your rundown on his healing itinerary and for the RS letter that informed us of your blogspot. Thank you and God Bless you Lars. Lee and Flo Wight

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