Pope Francis Resting After Overnight Ventilation for Pneumonia/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pope Francis remains under medical care for double pneumonia, alternating between a ventilation mask at night and supplemental oxygen by day. The Vatican reports his condition as stable but guarded, as he sleeps through the night and wakes at 8 a.m.. His health challenges coincide with the start of Lent, with a cardinal leading Ash Wednesday observances in his absence.
Pope Francis’ Health Update: Quick Look
- Pope Sleeping with Ventilation Mask: Alternates between mask at night and nasal oxygen by day.
- Condition Stable but Guarded: Doctors cautious, but no intubation required.
- Hospitalized Since Feb. 14: Longest stay of his 12-year papacy.
- Lenten Observances Continue Without Him: Cardinal appointed to lead Ash Wednesday events.
- Pope’s Spiritual Retreat Canceled: Theme of ‘Hope in Eternal Life’ still emphasized.
- Respiratory Physiotherapy Ongoing: Doctors work to ease lung secretions and prevent complications.
Pope Francis Resting After Overnight Ventilation for Pneumonia
Pope Alternates Between Ventilation Mask and Oxygen Therapy
Pope Francis continues his recovery from double pneumonia, with a ventilation mask aiding his breathing overnight, followed by nasal oxygen support during the day, according to the Vatican’s latest update on Wednesday.
- The 88-year-old pontiff, who has a chronic lung condition, slept through the night and woke at 8 a.m..
- His condition remains stable, though still guarded, meaning doctors are monitoring him closely for complications.
- Francis has not been intubated, and his treatment plan aims to avoid invasive mechanical ventilation.
“The Holy Father is resting well, and we continue to monitor his condition closely,” the Vatican said in a brief statement.
Longest Hospital Stay of His Papacy
Francis’ hospitalization began on February 14, making it the longest hospital stay in his 12-year leadership of the Catholic Church. His current illness has included two respiratory crises earlier this week, where doctors removed significant mucus buildup from his lungs.
His preexisting lung condition, which resulted in the partial removal of one lung as a young man, has made his recovery more complicated.
Ash Wednesday and Lenten Observances Without the Pope
This health setback coincides with Ash Wednesday, the solemn observance that marks the start of Lent.
- A cardinal has been appointed to lead the Vatican’s traditional Ash Wednesday service, as Francis remains under medical care.
- The pope had planned to participate in a weekend spiritual retreat, but the Vatican has confirmed it will proceed without him, in ‘spiritual communion’.
- The theme of this year’s retreat—’Hope in Eternal Life’—remains unchanged, reflecting the Lenten season’s message of faith and renewal.
“The pope is with us in spirit,” a Vatican official said.
Doctors Focus on Respiratory Therapy
Francis remains on respiratory physiotherapy, a treatment aimed at helping him clear lung secretions, a key challenge for patients with chronic lung disease and reduced muscle strength.
- Doctors are carefully balancing treatments to prevent further respiratory distress.
- The goal is to avoid intubation, as noninvasive ventilation is being used to support his breathing during the night.
- His medical team continues to evaluate his response to treatment daily.
Catholic Teachings on End-of-Life Care
As concerns grow about Francis’ ability to recover fully, Vatican observers have pointed to Catholic teachings on medical ethics.
- Catholic doctrine supports ordinary medical care (such as oxygen therapy) but allows withdrawal of extraordinary measures if they only prolong suffering.
- Pope Francis himself has spoken about avoiding ‘overzealous treatment’ in end-of-life care.
For now, however, his condition remains stable, and there is no indication of limiting his treatment.
What’s Next?
- Doctors will continue monitoring Francis’ lung function and adjust his treatment as needed.
- Vatican officials will provide updates on whether the pope can resume public duties in the coming weeks.
- Lenten services will proceed without Francis, with cardinals and bishops filling in for his usual roles.
Bottom Line
Pope Francis remains in stable but guarded condition, continuing oxygen therapy and respiratory treatments as he battles double pneumonia. With Lent beginning and the Vatican adjusting its plans, the world watches for signs of his recovery.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.