We've mentioned in our posts that Graeme has received breathing treatments. He gets Vapotherm, suctioning, and CPT (Chest Physical Therapy).
Vapotherm
Vapotherm - it's a humidifier...in your nose! This has helped Graeme breathe better, giving him a high volume of warm, moist, oxygen-rich air. His volume maxed out at 17L/min (an average adult breathes 6L/min) and his O2 levels maxed at 40% (normal atmospheric oxygen is 21%). The air is warmed to body temperature, 37°C (98.6°F).
I want one of these - who wouldn't want one of these, especially on dry winter mornings.
I want one of these - who wouldn't want one of these, especially on dry winter mornings.
Suctioning
To suck the massive amounts of mucus out of his body, there's a vacuum pump with a long tube and three attachments. One is for his nostrils, one is for his mouth, and one, with a long straw for "deep suctioning", is for his airways. he tolerates suctioning his mouth, dislikes suctioning his nose, and hates deep suctioning.
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He continues to receive all three, but we hope to wean him of the Vapotherm tomorrow. Ending this treatment is his next step toward coming home.
Chest Physical Therapy (CPT)
Graeme has received CPT, rhythmic drumming on his chest and back, to help loosen the mucus in his lungs and airways. (Learn more about the science of CPT here.) Here's what it looks and sounds like:
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He continues to receive all three, but we hope to wean him of the Vapotherm tomorrow. Ending this treatment is his next step toward coming home.
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