Learning How to Talk while Ventilated

[dc-b]

Hi, All.
I'm thinking I should push for Jet to get fitted for a Passy-Muir valve while he's in the hospital. I was really hoping that they would work on a little bit of weaning over the next couple of weeks so that Jet could spend at least a little time each day listening to his own voice. I think the reason his CO2's were a little high a couple weeks ago was because of his reflux and his respiratory infection. (Has now had the Nissen and has run a course of antibiotics). Jet breathes over the vent ALWAYS, but they went up on his rate to 18 after the Nissen surgery, and have no plans to go back down or try pressure support. (With every doctor change, there is a different plan . . . )

Does anyone have an experience to share regarding your child's time off the vent for speech development? I still don't know if Jet's vocal cords are in decent condition, either. . .

[Shari]

Danielle-
I somehow missed this question before. Anyway, I have found (taking care of my own child and others) that most kids can vocalize MUCH better ON the vent than off. The key is the leak. Without a leak, they can't speak at all. With a leak and on the vent (with an in-line passey or without), they seem to have more pressure and therefore vocalize easier. My Jacob is off the vent except for sleep, but if he happens to wake up on the vent, he talks like crazy! This is especially helpful if he wakes up and wants us... he can cry! Off the vent, he can squeek out a few things but it takes a lot of effort. He can't tolerate the P-M at all b/o his severe reactive airway. Hope this helps.
-Shari