Heart Bypass Surgery

I was on the ventilator for a week after my surgery and because of that they kept me sedated the whole time. They said the sedation was necessary in order for me to heal properly etc. Perhaps you need to ask if they are deliberately keeping her in a drug induced coma? Everyone is so different in how they react to surgery.....drugs....by-pass machines etc. that I would want more information from the doctors. I had problems immediately after surgery therefore they kept me on the ventilator for that length of time in order for my organs to start to work again. I might question if she had any problems with kidney functions or any organs working properly............I had total organ failure and through the drug induced coma they were able to recoup and start working again. There are many reasons for the use of the ventilator............is she responding at all to commands or is she truly in a deep sleep? My family said I appeared to be very much asleep but at times I would squeeze someones hand on command..........then other times I didn't respond at all............I know.....it is scary. I was called a "pump-head" after surgery but that was while I was recovering (months later).....I was told it referred to the fact my memory was so pitiful and couldn't remember words while talking....all sorts of mental problems. This has gotten better over the years........I would have someone ask exactly what they mean by "pump-head"........my dr. said it was from being on the by-pass machine for so long. Rose.............I too have ventilator induced COPD ........... Try to stay calm and realize everyone who has this surgery responds differently.......I think the main thing is to get as much information from the doctors as possible......the family is entitled to know what is going on with her............we all have our stories about this surgery..........some respond remarkably quick and are out of hospital right away......others stay longer with families wondering if they will ever get out..........for some of us it just takes longer to heal............ Last word...........ask questions and if not satisfied ask again........also ask to speak to the anestheologist......he should know the effect of what he used and if it is causing this..... Keep us posted................ Carol/Atlanta