Pope Francis has been able to spend brief moments of the day without any supplemental oxygen, which is yet another sign of the gradual improvement in his condition, the Vatican press office said. Source: Catholic Review.
There was no sign of a nasal tube in the photograph the Vatican released on Sunday of the Pope concelebrating Mass in his private chapel at Rome’s Gemelli hospital. That was because he can be without it for brief periods, the press office told reporters yesterday.
Also, when he is using the nasal tube, he is alternating between high-flow and normal-flow oxygen during the day while doctors have been reducing the number of hours he uses the non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night, the press office said.
The fact that the reductions are possible is a sign that there is slight, yet progressive improvement and the respiratory therapy is working.
However, a Vatican source said, his being discharged from the hospital “is not imminent”.
In the March 16 photo, Pope Francis’ right hand was also noticeably swollen, which was a consequence of his reduced mobility, the press hall said.
That swelling has already been reduced thanks to the day’s physical therapy, which is meant to counter the consequences of limited mobility during a lengthy hospitalisation.
The Pope continues to follow his usual daily routine of therapy, prayer, rest and a bit of work, it added.
As he continues to be in a stable condition, the doctors have decided not to release daily medical bulletins. The last official bulletin was released Saturday, and the next more detailed medical update is expected tomorrow
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Improved condition means pope can briefly go without supplemental oxygen (By Carol Glatz, CNS via Catholic Review)
