GJ Tubes and the power of persuasion

Less than 48 hours after our last ordeal, I would find myself again driving Nicholas to Baptist Hospital. This time, it was because his GJ tube came out. We just went through this last week. This time however, we were much calmer and knew exactly what to do. You see, a GJ tube can only be replaced by Interventional Radiology. The tube is about 8 inches long and must be thread into the jejunum(the middle part of the intestine). Nicholas is fed directly into his intestine, as opposed to his stomach due to severe reflux.

At 5:00 am the tube came out. Lisa immediately grabbed a spare g-tube and put in his belly. We decided not to rush off to the emergency room because we have learned that all they will do is make us wait until we can be seen by Interventional Radiology(IR). And, if I'm honest, it costs more. So, we continued to feed him at a slower rate directly into his belly and at 7:30, I headed for the hospital. I called (IR) on my way and this is sort of how the conversation went:

Me: I'm bringing my son in to have his GJ replaced.

Secretary: But he's not on our board today.

Me: I know that, it just came out and I'm on my way.

Secretary: But you just can't bring him in, a Doctor must let us know about it first.

Me: I don't need a Doctor to tell you my son's GJ tube came out. Trust me, it's out.

Secretary: Well...

Me: Let me speak with Ms. Bird, the unit manager. We had this problem last week and she is familar with my son.

Secretary: Ok, well, why don't you just come on in and we'll get you in as soon as possible.

Ahh, the power of knowledge. If I have learned anything in the past year, it's that red tape often hinders medical care. I have learned to be forceful when I know that the means will justify the ends.

I sat in IR no longer than 20 minutes when they came for Nicholas. 10 minutes later they were bringing him back to me. During this time, Ms. Bird the unit manager found me. She said I got the message that you were here. Glad things went more smoothly this time. I thanked her and out the door I went.

12 days, 4 hospital trips. I know it seems like a lot. But after what happened two days ago, I would take 12 hospital trips in 4 days.

And so, I continue to remember my anchor verse, 2 Cor. 1:10-11, "...On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many."

Thank you for your continued prayers.