The Vatican says that the crisis caused the Pope to vomit, but he was given non-invasive mechanical ventilation and responded well.
Pope Francis suffered a “isolated respiratory crisis” in the hospital, which caused him to vomit, but he was given non-invasive mechanical ventilation and responded well, saying the Vatican would continue to fight pneumonia.
The Vatican said Friday that the respiratory crisis led to “episodes of vomiting due to inhalation and sudden worsening of the respiratory system.”
“The Holy Father was immediately bronchially penetrated, responding well to gas exchange and began non-invasive mechanical ventilation. The Holy Father was always vigilant and always turned,” the Vatican added.
Vatican officials who requested anonymity told Reuters on condition of anonymity that the Pope’s breathing problems on Friday did not last long.
Officials added that the Pope’s doctor is expected to take between 24 and 48 hours to assess how the episode will affect his clinical status.
Francis, 88, was in hospital for two weeks after being admitted to Gemeri Hospital in Rome for a “complex” respiratory infection caused by two microorganisms.
He was subjected to a breathing attack over the weekend, but it seemed a little better since then, with the Vatican releasing more optimistic medical supplies.
Cardinal Michael Cerney, head of the Vatican Development Office, said in an interview with the Italian newspaper La Stanca, Francis is “slower than we want.”
The Vatican has not said how long the Pope will remain in the hospital, but announced on Friday that he will not lead his annual service to hold the Christian religious holiday in Lent.
The Vatican said senior members of the church will lead the service that begins on March 5th.
Francis has suffered from a health attack over the past two years, developing a chest as a young adult and removing part of one lung, making him prone to pulmonary infections.
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