Vatican issues Pope Francis’ health update after he was put on ventilator

The Vatican has provided an update on the health of Pope Francis following his placement on a ventilator due to a breathing crisis. The 88-year-old Pontiff has not experienced any new respiratory issues today and is currently in stable condition, as announced by the Vatican in a recent statement.

According to the statement, the clinical condition of the Holy Father remains stable. He is receiving alternating treatment between non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygenation, showing positive responses in gas exchange. Additionally, the Pope does not have a fever and has a normal white blood cell count.

His haemodynamic parameters have consistently remained stable, and he has been able to eat independently while undergoing respiratory physiotherapy. The Pope has not encountered any further bronchospasm episodes and remains alert and oriented, engaging in prayer and receiving the Eucharist.

Although the prognosis is guarded, the Pope’s condition is being closely monitored by medical professionals. The recent incident occurred when the Pope experienced a coughing fit and inhaled vomit, resulting in a sudden deterioration of his respiratory health. Doctors promptly provided treatment, including aspiration of the vomit and non-invasive mechanical ventilation.

Despite this setback, the Pope remained conscious and cooperative throughout the procedures, demonstrating a positive response to treatment. He continues to receive supplemental oxygen through a mask and is under the care of doctors at Romes Gemelli Hospital.

This recent development follows a period of optimistic reports from medical staff treating the Pope since his admission on February 14. The Pope, who underwent lung surgery in his youth and has a history of lung disease, was hospitalized after a severe case of bronchitis progressed to pneumonia in both lungs.

The Vatican has reported that the recent episode experienced by Pope Francis was distinct from the prolonged respiratory crisis that occurred on February 22nd. This incident involved an isolated spasm which led to the Pope aspirating the vomit he had produced.

Dr. John Coleman, a pulmonary critical care physician at Northwestern Medicine in Chicago, expressed his deep concern regarding the situation. He emphasized the gravity of the Pope’s condition, noting that he has been hospitalized for over two weeks and is now facing continued respiratory issues, including the recent aspiration event which necessitates higher levels of support.

Given the Pope’s advanced age, fragile state, and history of lung resection, Dr. Coleman underscored the seriousness of the situation. The combination of these factors makes the current circumstances very worrisome.