Sedation Vacation

 Brian is stable and resting. He is sedated for comfort while his lungs rest. His nurse calls it "Sedation Vacation". Earlier in the day, the ICU team reduced his sedation so that they could assess his cognitive function. He was able to open his eyes a bit (there is some swelling around the eyes which is typical of his situation) and could move his fingers and toes. When asked to squeeze her hand and release her hand, Brian was able to do so. As a patient comes out of heavy sedation, coughing is not uncommon due to the ventilator tube being in his throat. Once it was explained to Brian that this is common and he is okay, he was able to relax. After the assessment was complete, Brian's sedation was increased so that he could peacefully rest and allow his body to continue to heal. He is still in Covid isolation, as an extra precautionary measure, but it is anticipated that this requirement lifted within the next day or two. Once this happens, he will be able to have a healthy person sit in his room with him. Brian's progress will be slow. A Cardiac Surgeon explained earlier this morning that his progress will not necessarily have daily updates. Progress markers will likely be seen more on a weekly basis.