Jaundice

When we left the hospital on Saturday, we knew that Parker's biliruben level was a little bit high (10.9). This level usually peaks around day 5. Although there wasn't great concern over the current number, the pediatrician recommended we get lab work done the next day to make sure this number didn't increase.  We headed back to the hospital Sunday morning to get the blood drawn. We were really looking forward to staying cozy in our home for a few days, but that still hasn't happened.

I knew I wouldn't be able to hold Parker still when he was crying, so Daddy had the lousy task of holding him still.  

Unfortunately, Parker's bilirubin level had gone up to 16.5. They warned us that they usually start treatment when it reaches 17. Ouch! Too close for comfort. In effort to prevent this number from increasing, we were told to start waking him up to feed once every 2 hours during the day and 3 hours at night. She also said we needed to offer him 1ounce of formula after breastfeeding to make sure he was getting enough fluids. We'd been so proud at how well Parker was breastfeeding. At this point, my milk hadn't come in... so we had no choice but to offer him a bottle. Mommy cried a little, but we knew it was for the best.

Sad Mommy

Daddy feeding Parker his first bottle

Parker did great with the first bottle. He took about 3/4 of an ounce. My milk came in later that night, and Parker refused other bottles. Wil did get him to take another 1/2 ounce in the middle of the night.

Mimi & Dan-dad brought us dinner plus a little extra for leftovers. Thanks!

Proud Grandparents