Longing for Dr. Quinn

So there was a time many years ago when I was obsessed with watching Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.  Now that I have cable TV I can watch it most nights if I so choose.  I usually choose cooking shows but have realized that Dr. Quinn warped me.  In those shows, Dr Quinn is "the" doctor. She knows her patients personally and handles all aspects of their medical care. She knows the story of her patients and makes decisions accordingly.  She is "the" doctor. That was then.  This is now.

Do you know how many different Doctors, Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses, Techs, and who knows else are involved in Larry's care?  The doctors in charge of his care at the hospital are not the doctors he sees when he is not at the hospital.  And the doctor today may not be the doctor tomorrow. And if we are talking about one part of his body, the doctor present may not handle that part of the body and we have to wait for another doctor. Today while visiting Larry at the hospital, Mom and I were waiting for "the doctor."  I met several people but "the doctor" did not come until after I left.  I don't remember her title but she had dealt with Larry's case all week, Mom liked her, and she was the one needed to make important decisions today. 

So based on all those doctors and non doctors it boils down to this.  Larry is recovering well from the pneumonia.  He has been hydrated and looks much better.  His kidney function is where it needs to be.  The various throat test did not reveal a cause for his inability to swallow.  He is still struggling to swallow food, thickened liquids and medication.  This inability to swallow leads to dehydration and lack of nutrition but most importantly the inability to get his needed seizure medication.  Therefore the decision has been made for Larry to receive a stomach feeding tube. Hopefully this can take place tomorrow so that he can return to the nursing home Monday.  Long story short Larry's spot at the nursing home can only be held 7 days.  The seven days are fast approaching. We are praying that he will not lose his spot (and his private room) at the nursing home that has become his home.