My dad has decompensated cirrhosis and is in ICU

Posted by lola915 @lola915, Nov 11, 2022

My dad has decompensated cirrhosis and is in ICU. He’s been hospitalized since 10/26/22, for hepatic encephalopathy which complicated and led to septic shock with ongoing candida infection, upper GI bleed, esophageal varices, and the various other disadvantages from being bedridden and immobilized for weeks. Today is day 17. He was diagnosed in early August with CKD stage 3 (now stage 4, since in ICU). He’s currently intubated and being ventilated. MELD score was 32 yesterday. Does anyone have any suggestions to help me gain more perspective. We were on the course for liver transplant and all of these complications presented so abruptly. What can I ask for at the hospital or keep my eyes on to help me make sure I can verbalize questions or requests? My dad can’t speak and I’m overwhelmed by all the change and context of information. I dont want to overlook anything that might seem obvious to someone more experienced with this, as it’s all new to me. My dad never had symptoms or was ever hospitalized before this. Please be as honest and direct as possible. I need help processing this and knowing what information to focus on most. Thank you all. This is my first post.
<3 Lo 11/11/22

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tonysister | @tonysister | Nov 12, 2022

I know that experience, of anguish, you describe.

My very healthy 66y/o brother was intubated for almost 3 weeks. While his issues were cardiogenic shock, he had a tumultuous course too. I was at his bedside too thru all of it.

When moments of peril arose & I could feel fear rising in me, I would hold his hand & talk w/him & communicate how loved he was.

Ur father is in very good hands, & they will do all they can

Hugs to you

You are a very good daughter.

myfablife | @myfablife | Nov 12, 2022

I just want u to know that u r a good daughter I can not imagine how hard this must be, your dad’s case sounds pretty serious and u are going to have to listen to his Drs. and know they will lead u and your family in the right direction to care for him.
Sending u strength to get thru this and keep your faith.
Bless you..

Rosemary, Volunteer Mentor | @rosemarya | Nov 13, 2022

@lola915. Welcome to Connect. It is easy to understand that you are overwhelmed as you try to understand all that is going on in the hospital with your dad.
When I was a patient in ICU, I was comforted just by knowing that my loved one was with me. I encourage you to speak softly to your dad - letting him know that you are with him, and letting him know where he is and what (in simple terms) is going on in the hospital. And include some happy everyday information from home/friends. When I was in ICU with kidney and liver failure, I was not totally aware of what was going on, and my sons told me afterward that they watched my monitor to see if I was awake or asleep. Mostly they sat silently at my bedside.
I hope that the doctors have collected some medical information about possible treatment for your dad. My husband used to ask when the doctor would make his morning rounds so he could make every effort to be there. That is not a time for indepth questioning, however he should be able to tell you in everyday language what is going on with your dad.
Another thing you might want to consider is to talk to the lead nurse on his case, and ask her your questions. She will have his records and doctor's notes.

Lola, You said that your dad was on course for a liver transplant. Has his liver team been involved?