Pope Francis shows good treatment results after hospital stay

Pope Francis shows good treatment results after hospital stay

For the first time since his hospitalization about three weeks ago, Pope Francis is showing a positive development. A source from the Vatican told CNN.

Good response to therapy

On Saturday, the Vatican press office said there was a "good response to therapy" and a "gradual, slight improvement" since his acute respiratory failure on Monday. According to the Vatican source, this improvement is due to “gas exchange” in the lungs and oxygenation of the blood.

Progress and risks

Nevertheless, the source emphasized that the risk of another respiratory crisis remains and the prognosis is still cautious. The pope continues to alternate between high-flow oxygen therapy during the day and non-invasive ventilation at night, the press office said.

Spiritual activities during recovery

On Saturday morning, Francis prayed in a chapel. In the afternoon, he rested and participated in work activities. The office also announced that the Angelus prayer will be published again in written form on Sunday.

Planned participation in spiritual exercises

Starting Monday, the pope will take part in traditional Lenten "spiritual exercises" from the hospital, the Vatican source told CNN. Since the incident on Monday, the pope has been in a stable condition and is receiving respiratory and motor physical therapy. On Thursday, he released a pre-recorded audio message thanking his supporters for their prayers.

Uncertainty in the Vatican

Uncertainty over Pope Francis' health continues as his stay in hospital continues. Concern for his health has increased throughout the Vatican community.