4 Month Appointment - The Sequel

Well, this little series of events is turning into a saga of epic proportions. Today we went back to the doctor to be weighed. As you will recall, at her last appointment Cora had only gained 4 ounces in the two months between the appointments. This month, little missy put on a whopping 1 ounce. . . The doctor was slightly (!) concerned. The mommy was slightly (!) hysterical. Cora was jolly until the doctor ordered a panel of lab work.

So, the phlebotomist comes in with her tray of needles, syringes, gauze and bandages and asks which tests the doctor ordered. It can not be good if the professional doesn't know what tests for which she is drawing blood, no? All I know is that the doctor is going to be checking liver functions, etc. But, not being a medical professional, how the heck should I know the names of the tests?!? And, now I'm expected to trust this person to stick my baby!?! The phlebotomist leaves to find out what she is supposed to do and does not come back. Eventually the nurse tracks her down and sends her back in with a list of seven (!) tests. Does my baby even have enough blood for 7 tests?? Even the professional is skeptical. Nevertheless, she brings out one of those lovely rubber tourniquets and wraps it around sweet baby's arm. No good veins there. Next, she tries the foot. No such luck there either. She decides she will need a tiny needle and leaves us to retrieve one. Then, she and the nurse attempt to draw blood from a vein I can't even see. They were able to get about 1/2 a drop. So, they send me off to another clinic down the street.

This clinic happens to be in a family practice. The people in the waiting room are all adults and all sick. When we walk in, Cora happens to be fussing her tiny little head off. I'm sure they were all thrilled. Thankfully, it was only a few minute wait for us. Unfortunately, this phlebotomist did not seem much more hopeful about getting the blood needed for all of the tests. Nevertheless, we begin the vein search all over again. To make this incredibly long story (a little) shorter. After 45 minutes of pricking my poor baby, she was able to get enough blood for all but one of the tests. Here is a picture of what Cora looked like when she was finished.

I took these pictures with my phone, so the quality is not great. She has four bandages on her feet and one on her wrist. The nurse was very gracious and allowed me to stay in the room and nurse Cora to get her calmed down. And, she made sure that I did not leave without my very own fecal collection kit. . .just what I always wanted!! We should get the lab work back in a few days. . .