SeanOKelly.us

The first Time Abigail was admitted to the PICU, four days into our stay, her doctor warned Sean and I that we could develop ICU psychosis, a condition that until three weeks ago I had never even heard of. Let me reiterate that was after four days, today is day 20!!! I am now convinced that I am suffering from ICU psychosis in its most serious form. What is this mysterious affliction you ask? I’m still not quite sure but here is a list of symptom to look out for all of which I am currently experiencing:

1. Hearing things that no one else does.

On many occasions I have jumped up to check Abigail’s monitor for the source of the “ding” only to find that nothing is wrong, or called a nurse in to check her IV for a beep that is nonexistent. I’m sure they love this, as if they are not busy enough.

2. Crying at random moments.

A few days ago, for no apparent reason, as one of the nurses was checking Abigail’s leads I burst into tears. She was not in any pain or danger, she was not crying or bothered by this but I just couldn’t hold em’ back. This happens from time to time and usually surprises me as much as them.

3. Over sanitizing.

They have to change the hand sanitizer bottle in her room at least every other day because I can’t stay away from it. It’s like crack cocaine for my hands.

4. Rocking.

I’m not talking Jack black (oh summer of 2002 what happened). Literally rocking. This is ok as long as I’m holding Abigail but when I continue to rock after she is in bed just for me… yeah…

And maybe most disturbing of all is #5. Calling the PICU home. This happens by accident far too often. The other day while I was leaving my actual home, I hugged Hannah and told her, “I’m sorry sweetheart mommy has to go home”, referring to the PICU!!!

I may have been completely psychotic before ever entering the picu that is up for debate. But if you have come to visit here in the PICU and begin to develop any of these symptoms, consult Wikipedia right away for a cure, and then let me know what it is.