Pope health update as stricken Pontiff, 88, has high-flow oxygen therapy after ‘respiratory failure’ emergency
THE Pope requires "high flow oxygen" therapy throughout the day and ventilation over night, according to the latest Vatican update.
Francis's team revealed there have been "no new crises"and that the Pontiff spent the day out of bed in his chair.
The update also revealed the Pope had restarted some of his work, despite his recent "acute respiratory failures" and continuing battle with double-lung pneumonia.
The statement read: "The Holy Father also remained stationary today without presenting episodes of respiratory failure.
"As planned, during the day, he underwent high-flow oxygen therapy and during the night non-invasive mechanical ventilation will be resumed.
"The Holy Father increased respiratory physiotherapy and active motor therapy."
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Francis again spent his day in his private suite on the tenth floor of Gemelli Hospital, and took part in the blessing of the Sacred Ashes.
He also received bread and wine in the Eucharist ceremony, according to the update, before getting down to some work.
He reportedly called Father Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family of Gaza, who he has spoken to frequently since October 7, 2023.
Francis was rushed into hospital on February 14, where he has remained ever since.
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He was later diagnosed with double-lung pneumonia, and his condition has been up and down.
But, on Monday, the pontiff suffered a major set back when he was hit by two "acute respiratory failures" which bound him to a ventilator.
At Francis's request, the Vatican released all the details about his clinical picture.
They said his recent emergencies were caused by "significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm".
The church added: "Two bronchoscopies were therefore performed with the need for aspiration of abundant secretions.
"In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed. The Holy Father has always remained vigilant, oriented and collaborative.
"The prognosis remains reserved."
By yesterday, he was well enough to be taken off constant ventilation, but still requires it overnight.
And rumours that Francis would resign were yesterday shot down by one of his close confidants.
Argentine journalist Elisabetta Pique, a friend and biographer of the Pope, was adamant he would soldier on.
She said: "He's always been a fighter. He doesn't give in under pressure.
"The more pressure they put on him, the more likely he won't give in."
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The Vatican has been equally firm in denying rumours that the Pope is considering a resignation.
But French Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, who is tipped to be one of the contenders to replace Francis, said at a press conference that "everything is possible."
