James has an assigned feeding consultant now, who recommended alternating 3 bottle/mom feedings (that he has to work for) per day and nasogastric tube feedings the rest of the time. Limiting and spacing out the bottles allows him to rest between sucking sessions and gradually increase his energy and strength. So far, it's worked wonderfully: he's almost up to a full diet (55 ccs per meal out of an anticipated total of 60) and he finishes the bottle almost every time.
As of today, he's increasing to 4 bottles a day. His sucking ability is improving, and his grip is noticeably stronger. It does tire him out though, so we'll work bit by bit towards the goal: feeding by bottle/mom every 3 hours, or 8 times a day. Having dinner, apparently, is quite a workout!
He is out of the heavy-duty incubator and in a normal (as normal as hospital gear looks) crib, with his own toys and wearing his own clothes. I'll post a pic soon...the only tube left is the tiny nasal tube, which is only attached during nasal feedings anyways, leaving James unobstructed and easy to hold the rest of the day. He's a snuggler :)
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