I got the 411 OK I have more information. So let me share and then also answer some questions.

I did take the day off today. While I do qualify for FMLA I also have no savings since it was wiped out when dh lost his job so hate to take unpaid leave. Plus I work unbelievable hours so they should be able to give me a few days off with pay. I only have 4 vacation days and I do hope to spend time with my kids at Christmas time.

They did call and ask about the insulin. I thought we agreed I would not bring it. When I got there they wanted it. It seems that there are so many insulins that are similar. They worked it out...I think. They are not giving him his regular dosages then act surprised that his sugar is high....duh! They finally put him back on his dosing tonight. We will see how that goes.

DH was taking other meds at home. When we filled out the paperwork we disclosed all the meds and dosages. I asked the nurse about them today and she had a surprised look. She mumbled that he should probably take them and quickly left more or less indicating he should take them NOW without her knowledge. So I gave them to him. They are now on his orders.

I still have not talked to the surgeon although he has spoken to dh. I called the office and left a message for his PA. The PA called me back and told me everything. Coincidentally the hepatologist was there and filled in the gaps and concurred much of the information that overlapped the two docs specialties. So read on here is what I know....

The surgery went exactly as they thought it should. They were able to put an articulating spacer in so he will have some movement. This is a good thing. He is in a knee immobilizer from ankle to thigh. He was up and walking on it with a walker already. So things are looking ok there.

I walked into them inserting his PIC line today (not sure if that is spelled correctly). This is how we will administer IV antibiotics for the next 6 weeks at home. The 6 weeks could be more or less. Then they will take him off antibiotics for 2 weeks. At that time they will determine if infection is gone by doing an MRI, culturing fluid from the knee (if there is any) and then visual inspection. If all docs involved the infection is clear they will make him active on the liver transplant list.

Once he is on the list they will only do the new knee replacement if something happens that indicates it. They will do liver transplant as soon as one is available. Then in 3-4 months they will do the replacement. If his recovery from transplant is going well or something happens that indicates need to do the replacement they will go ahead with it. At this pace I suspect he will be all redone by May or June. We will see.

You all are so wonderful. He is much better. Once they get him off the pain pump it will be that much better. I will be writing to lots of people about this experience. Everyone raves over this hospital. I just don't see what the big deal is. I wonder how people that don't have someone there for them asking questions or don't question themselves manage. The nurse did indicate it is an issue for many. She is really trying to fix all the woes so I will be sure to commend her as well.

Don't hesitate to ask questions. I am really very tired and have probably left out things. Thanks for all your wonderful support. Much love and hugs to you all! swooze!