5-4-10---ESBL - The Latest on Robin (5-4-10)

The infectious disease doctor came to see us in the late afternoon and explained that Robin’s Urinary Tract Infection is an antibiotic resistant variety. Furthermore, the bacteria are in her blood, as well (which means it is throughout her system, as I understand what he said). The bug is a member of a group called ESBL, which stands for “extended-spectrum beta lactamase.” ESBL bacteria are different from other superbugs, because “ESBL” does not refer to one specific kind of bacteria. (For instance, MRSA refers specifically to methicillin-resistant strains of S. aureus.) Instead, it refers to an antibiotic-busting enzyme that many different kinds of bacteria can produce. Because of this antibiotic-busting ability, this particular bug only responds to one type of antibiotic, which is only available by IV. The treatment will involve two weeks of IV infusion of this antibiotic. The plan is to get Robin started and get her stabilized, then continue treatments by way of a daily visit from a home healthcare nurse. At the time, it appeared that Robin was going to be moved into the room next door, by herself.

Things seemed to take a turn for the worse after the shift change at 7:00 PM. At 7:00, we heard that the new room was ready, and we could start moving Robin's stuff. Not wanting to leave her stuff in an empty room, I waited… And waited… AND WAITED… About 11:00 PM, the nurses checked Robin’s vital signs, and her blood pressure was too low. They also said that there was also a problem with her orders for insulin, and she needed insulin because her blood sugar was still too high (though it was half of Sunday's readings). The nurses were concerned, so they called the infectious disease doctor and obtained orders to transfer Robin to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Around 1:00 AM they started preparing Robin for the move, and she was in ICU before 2:00 AM. The good news about ICU is that Robin will be monitored closely and will have a dedicated nurse. The bad part is that visitors are limited (no more than two) and only allowed for four hours a day (8:30-9:30, 11:30-12:30, 4:30-5:30, and 8:00-9:00).

So, about 2:00 AM or so, they threw me out (in a very nice way, but I was still thrown out). I'm going to back at 8:30, when they will let me see her again.

I will try to send another message when we know more.

Please keep Robin in your thoughts and prayers.

                  --- Larry